How to Become a Gemologist

TEST A DIAMOND AT-HOME USING REFLECTIVITY
In addition to refractivity, you can test a stone based on its reflectivity. While refractivity pertains to the directions the light bounces, reflectivity refers to the amount and quality of the light that is reflected off of the stone.

Reflectivity encompasses both the brilliance (white light sparkle) and fire (colored light) that shines off of a diamond’s table.

To test for reflectivity, use the sparkle test.

8) Sparkle Test
The sparkle test doesn’t require any equipment—except for your eyes. Hold the diamond in question under a normal lamp. Watch how light reflects off of the stone. Do you see bright shimmers of white light bouncing off the diamond? Do you see colorful light reflections as well?

A real diamond reflects white light extremely well, providing exceptional sparkle. Diamonds also reflect colored light, or fire, in magnificent fashion.

If you compare a real diamond to a fake diamond like Cubic Zirconia, you are able to notice a drastic difference in the white and colored light sparkle that the real diamond gives off.

EXPERT TECHNIQUES TO ENSURE A DIAMOND IS REAL
While various tests can be used to tell if a diamond is real, it’s advised to have a professional diamond expert assist you in determining if a diamond is genuine. A professional gemologist who has a Graduate Gemologist (GG) degree will be able to tell you definitively if a diamond is real or not.

Bringing your stone to a diamond professional will give you peace of mind, because several proven methods and tools are used to determine if a diamond is real.

9) Inspecting a Diamond with a Loupe