How to Identify Real vs Lab-Grown Diamonds
A practical guide to telling natural, lab-grown and simulant stones apart using diamond testers, moissanite testers and gemological instruments.
6 min read
Why diamond identification matters
Lab-grown diamonds are chemically identical to natural diamonds, so traditional thermal diamond testers cannot separate them. Jewelers, pawn shops and labs need a layered approach combining thermal conductivity, electrical conductivity and spectroscopy.
Step-by-step testing workflow
- Start with a combined diamond/moissanite tester to rule out simulants like cubic zirconia and moissanite.
- Use a UV / fluorescence check — many lab-grown (CVD/HPHT) diamonds show distinctive fluorescence patterns.
- For confirmation, use a dedicated lab-grown diamond detector that reads spectroscopic signatures.
- Verify weight and proportions with a calibrated jewelry scale and loupe or microscope.
Recommended equipment
WJT Group supplies professional diamond testers, moissanite testers and lab diamond detectors suitable for retail counters and gemological labs. Contact our team for a recommendation based on your volume and budget.