How to Use A Diamond Tester: Do you like diamond jewelry? Despite this, you are unsure about how to determine a piece of jewelry’s authenticity. Now you don’t need to worry about jewelry because diamond testers are electronic instruments. It is an important tool for anyone who wants to verify the authenticity of a diamond.
Moreover, it is a small handheld device that can detect whether a gemstone is a real diamond or an imitation, such as cubic zirconia or moissanite. In addition, diamond testers work by measuring the electrical conductivity of the gemstone. In this article, we will explain how to use a diamond tester in detail, including how to prepare the tester, how to test the stone, and how to interpret the results.
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Preparing the Diamond Tester
Before using a diamond tester, it is important to ensure that it is calibrated and functioning properly. Mostly, diamond testers come with instructions for calibration, which typically involve heating the search to a certain temperature and verifying that it registers as a diamond on a known diamond sample.
It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. when calibrating the tester using an improperly calibrated tester can lead to inaccurate results. To prepare a diamond tester, follow these steps:
Step 1: Read the Instructions
Before using the diamond tester, it is essential to read the instructions that come with the tester thoroughly. This will help you understand how to use the tester correctly and avoid any potential errors.
Step 2: Install Batteries
Most diamond testers require batteries. So, the first step is to install batteries. Refer to the user manual to know the battery specifications and installation procedure.
Step 3: Warm up the Tester
Turn on the diamond tester and allow it to heat up for a few seconds. Some testers may have a warm-up time of up to a minute, so it is important to check the instructions for your specific model.
Step 4: Calibrate the Tester
Calibration is the process of setting the tester to a known reference point. Refer to the user manual to know how to calibrate the tester correctly. Calibration is important for accurate results.
Step 5: Select the Test Mode
Most diamond testers have multiple test modes, including a basic diamond test and a test for moissanite and other stimulants. Select the appropriate test mode for the stone you are testing.
2. Testing the Stone
To test a stone with a diamond tester, follow these steps:
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Identify the Stone
Before testing a stone, it is important to identify it as accurately as possible. Look for any markings or engravings on the stone, and use a loupe or magnifying glass to examine its physical characteristics. If the stone is already mounted in a piece of jewelry, it may be more difficult to identify.
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Clean the Stone
Clean the stone with a soft cloth to remove any dirt, oil, or other contaminants. Make sure the stone is dry before testing it. If the stone is a piece of jewelry, you may need to use a cleaning solution or take the piece apart to clean the stone.
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Hold the Probe to the Stone
Hold the probe of the diamond tester to the stone and apply slight pressure. The probe should make contact with the stone, but not with so much pressure that it will scratch the stone or dislodge it from its setting.
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Observe the Results
The diamond tester will display a reading indicating whether the stone is a diamond or a stimulant. If the stone is a diamond, the tester will typically beep or light up to indicate this. If the stone is a stimulant, the tester may display a different reading or no reading at all.
Remember that no single method can guarantee that a stone is a diamond or not. It is always best to use a combination of methods to confirm the identity of the stone.
3. Interpreting the Results
When interpreting the results of a diamond test, it is important to keep in mind that diamond testers are not foolproof and may give inaccurate results in certain situations. Some stimulants, such as moissanite, have a thermal conductivity that is very similar to diamonds which can sometimes cause a diamond tester to register them as diamonds.
Further, some diamonds may have a thermal conductivity that is lower than average, which can cause a tester to register them as stimulants. Interpreting the result of a stone test depends on the method used. Here are some possible interpretations:
Observe the Reaction: Interpret the results based on the tester’s reaction. If the tester beeps or lights up, it may indicate that the stone is a diamond. If it does not react, the stone may not be a diamond.
Confirm the result: Use other testing methods like magnification or consult with a professional gemologist to confirm the result.
Be Aware of limitations: Note that diamond testers are not foolproof and can give false positives or negatives. Therefore, it is recommended to use other testing methods like magnification or consult with a professional gemologist to confirm the result.
Summarize
Using a diamond tester involves preparing the tester by checking the batteries and warming it up, conducting the test by cleaning the stone and holding the probe against it, and interpreting the results based on the tester’s reaction while being familiar with the limitations of the tester.
If the diamond tester registers a stone as a diamond, it is still a good idea to have the stone verified by a professional gemologist or appraiser. They can use additional tests, such as a loupe examination or a refractometer test, to confirm that the stone is indeed a diamond.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a diamond tester, and how does it work?
A diamond tester is a handheld electronic device that can quickly and easily identify whether a stone is a diamond or a simulant. The device works by measuring the thermal conductivity of the stone, which differs between diamonds and other materials.
Can a diamond tester identify all types of diamonds?
No, diamond testers can only identify diamonds that are made of natural or lab-grown diamond material. They cannot identify diamonds that have been treated with certain processes, such as high-pressure high temperature (HPHT) or chemical vapor deposition (CVD), which can alter a diamond's thermal conductivity.
How accurate are diamond testers?
Diamond testers are generally quite accurate in identifying natural and lab-grown diamonds. However, they may not be able to distinguish between some types of simulant stones, such as moissanite or cubic zirconia, which can have similar thermal conductivity to diamonds.
How do I use a diamond tester?
To use a diamond tester, simply turn on the device and place the tip of the tester on the stone you wish to test. The device will emit a beep or light to indicate whether the stone is a diamond or a simulant.
Can I use a diamond tester at home?
Yes, diamond testers are easy to use and can be used at home. However, if you are in doubt about the authenticity of a diamond or other gemstone, it is always best to have it professionally appraised by a certified gemologist.