In a society awash with imitations and knock offs, it is no surprise that, from time to time, someone may try to pass off a fake diamond for a real one.

So, how do you know fake or real diamond?

The problem is, it may be impossible to be 100% sure that the stone you are handling is, in fact, a real diamond. Some imitations are quite good, many made from the same elemental stock as a real diamond, allowing them to share many of true gemstones signature characteristics.

The most obvious answer is to consult a reputable jeweler. With their expertise and specialized equipment, most fakes can be spotted in very short order. Occasionally, a phony may make it past their expert eyes, but rarely.

But how do you know fake or real diamond without consulting an expert? There are a few simple tests that, while they may not prove that your stone is the real thing, will detect many of the most common impostors.

Anyone who has seen detective movies or TV shows
will know that diamonds are hard enough to scratch glass. But remember, diamonds are hard but not strong. While scratching the glass, you could chip a corner off the stone in the process.

Likewise, if the stone's flat surfaces are nicked and scratched, it's not a diamond.

Looking closely at the stone can also be a tell. Diamonds have a higher refractive index then most of the stones that double for diamonds. This means that it bends light more sharply than most gems. If you can see straight through the stone, it is probably not a diamond.

Placing the stone in water may help. Diamonds always sink. Some fakes will float.

The best way is to only accept diamonds from trusted sources, preferably with a certificate of authenticity. Many diamonds now come with laser engraved serial numbers that match their certificates, but these can only be seen with powerful magnifiers, like a jeweler's loupe.

Bringing us back to the trust issue. If you need to ask, how do you know fake or real diamond, you probably should pass.