Expert Tips To Identify Genuine Moissanite And Avoid Counterfeits

Moissanite has emerged as a popular alternative to diamonds, prized for its brilliance, durability, and affordability. However, as demand rises, so does the risk of encountering counterfeit or misrepresented stones. Whether you're purchasing an engagement ring, upgrading jewelry, or reselling pieces, knowing how to distinguish authentic moissanite from fakes is essential. Unlike mass-produced imitations, high-quality counterfeits can be deceptively convincing—even to experienced buyers. This guide equips you with expert-backed strategies, practical tools, and real-world insights to confidently verify moissanite authenticity.

Understanding Moissanite: Why It’s Targeted by Counterfeiters

First synthesized in the 1990s, moissanite is a lab-created silicon carbide gemstone that closely mimics the fire and sparkle of diamonds. Its near-diamond hardness (9.25 on the Mohs scale), ethical production, and lower price point make it a favorite among eco-conscious consumers. But these same qualities also make it a target for fraud.

Fake moissanite often takes one of two forms: either a cheaper stone like cubic zirconia (CZ) falsely labeled as moissanite, or a synthetic diamond passed off as moissanite to inflate value. In some cases, unscrupulous sellers use coatings or treatments to enhance visual similarity. The key to avoiding deception lies in understanding both physical properties and market practices.

“Moissanite has unique optical characteristics that no other common gemstone replicates exactly. Knowing what to test—and how—can save buyers thousands.” — Dr. Lena Reyes, Gemological Analyst, International Gem Society

Key Physical Properties to Test for Authenticity

Genuine moissanite exhibits specific measurable traits. Testing these requires minimal equipment and can be done at home or with a jeweler’s assistance.

1. Refractive Index and Double Refraction

Moissanite is doubly refractive, meaning light passing through it splits into two rays. This creates a distinctive doubling effect visible under magnification. To test:

1. Use a 10x jeweler’s loupe or microscope.
2. Focus on the facet junctions or edges of the stone.
3. If lines appear doubled, it’s likely moissanite. Diamonds and CZ show single lines.

Tip: Double refraction is one of the most reliable visual indicators of genuine moissanite—practice identifying it using known samples.

2. Thermal Conductivity Test

Moissanite conducts heat exceptionally well—similar to diamond. Most handheld diamond testers also detect moissanite, but newer models differentiate between the two. If a stone passes as “diamond” on an older tester, it could still be moissanite.

• Use a dual-mode tester (diamond/moissanite).
• A true positive for moissanite will register distinctly from diamond.
• Avoid relying solely on single-function testers—they may misidentify moissanite as diamond.

3. Electrical Conductivity

Unlike diamonds, which are electrical insulators, moissanite is a semiconductor. Specialized testers can detect this difference. While not commonly available to consumers, professional labs use this property for definitive identification.

Visual Clues That Reveal Fakes

While tools provide certainty, visual inspection offers fast preliminary screening. Train your eye to recognize subtle inconsistencies.

Excessive Fire and Color Flashes

Moissanite disperses light more than diamond, producing vivid rainbow flashes. While beautiful, excessive fire in daylight—especially compared to nearby diamonds—is a red flag if the seller claims it's a diamond. Conversely, if a supposed moissanite shows little fire, it may be CZ or glass.

Color Grading Mismatches

Authentic moissanite typically ranges from colorless (D-F) to near-colorless (G-H). Stones labeled “I-J” or lower while claiming to be moissanite should raise suspicion. Also, beware of overly perfect clarity—most moissanite has minor inclusions visible under 10x magnification.

Characteristic	Genuine Moissanite	Common Imitations (CZ, Glass)
Fire (Dispersion)	High, colorful flashes	Moderate to low, less vibrant
Hardness (Mohs)	9.25	8–8.5 (CZ), ~5.5 (glass)
Double Refraction	Visible under magnification	Absent
Thermal Conductivity	Very high (passes diamond tester)	Low (fails diamond tester)
Price (6.5mm round)	$200–$600	Under $50 (if loose)

Step-by-Step Guide to Verifying Moissanite at Purchase

Follow this sequence when evaluating a potential moissanite purchase—whether online or in-store.

1. Request Documentation: Ask for a grading report from a reputable lab (e.g., GCAL, IGI). These reports specify whether the stone is moissanite and include cut, color, clarity, and measurements.
2. Inspect Under Magnification: Use a loupe to check for double refraction and internal characteristics. Natural growth patterns or minor inclusions support authenticity.
3. Conduct a Thermal Test: Use a dual-mode tester to confirm it registers as moissanite, not just “diamond-like.”
4. Compare Visually: Place the stone next to a known diamond or CZ. Observe differences in sparkle and fire.
5. Verify Seller Reputation: Buy from certified jewelers with return policies and transparent sourcing. Avoid third-party marketplaces without verification.

Real Example: A Cautionary Purchase

Sophia, a buyer in Portland, purchased a “moissanite engagement ring” online for $350—a price significantly below market value for a 1-carat premium stone. Upon receiving it, she noticed the stone lacked expected fire and appeared cloudy under sunlight. She visited a local jeweler who used a thermal tester: the stone failed to register as moissanite or diamond. Further inspection revealed it was glass with a reflective coating. Sophia lost her investment because she skipped independent verification. Her experience underscores the importance of due diligence, even with seemingly attractive deals.

Checklist: How to Avoid Fake Moissanite

• ✅ Obtain a third-party gemological certificate
• ✅ Verify double refraction with a 10x loupe
• ✅ Use a dual-mode diamond-moissanite tester
• ✅ Compare fire and brilliance to known samples
• ✅ Research the seller’s reputation and return policy
• ✅ Be wary of prices far below average market rates
• ✅ Inspect packaging and branding—if missing or generic, suspect authenticity

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a diamond tester tell if a stone is moissanite?

Older diamond testers cannot distinguish moissanite from diamond because both conduct heat efficiently. Modern dual-mode testers can differentiate them. Always confirm the type of tester used and request results specifically for moissanite.

Is all moissanite lab-grown?

Yes. All commercial moissanite is lab-created. While naturally occurring moissanite exists (found in meteorites), it’s extremely rare and not used in jewelry. Claims of “natural moissanite” are false.

Does moissanite lose its sparkle over time?

No. Moissanite retains its brilliance indefinitely. However, surface buildup from oils, lotions, or dirt can dull its appearance temporarily. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water restores full luster.

Final Thoughts: Confidence Through Knowledge

Identifying genuine moissanite isn’t about memorizing technical jargon—it’s about applying simple, repeatable checks that separate truth from marketing. From double refraction to thermal testing, each method builds confidence in your evaluation. As the jewelry market evolves, consumer awareness becomes the strongest defense against fraud. Armed with the right tools and knowledge, you can make informed decisions and enjoy the beauty of authentic moissanite without compromise.

💬 Have you encountered a fake moissanite? Share your story or questions in the comments—your experience could help others avoid costly mistakes.