Tourmaline is a beautiful and valuable gemstone that comes in a wide range of colors and varieties. However, like all gemstones, there are fake tourmalines on the market that are sold as the real thing. To avoid being scammed, it’s important to know how to tell if a tourmaline is real. In this article, we will explore the different ways to identify a genuine tourmaline.
Color
Tourmaline comes in a wide range of colors, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with the different shades and varieties. If a tourmaline is too bright or too saturated, it could be a sign that it’s not a genuine stone. Real tourmalines have subtle variations in color and saturation.
Clarity
Tourmalines can have inclusions and flaws that affect their clarity. However, genuine tourmalines have a certain level of clarity that is not found in fake stones. A real tourmaline should not have any visible scratches, cracks, or bubbles.
Refractive Index
The refractive index is a measure of how light travels through a gemstone. Each type of gemstone has its own refractive index, and tourmaline has a high refractive index. To test if a tourmaline is real, you can use a refractometer, which measures the refractive index of the stone.
Density
Tourmaline has a specific gravity of around 3.06, which means it is heavier than most other stones of a similar size. You can test the density of a tourmaline by using a gemological scale or by weighing it in your hand and comparing it to other stones of a similar size.
Heat Conductivity
Tourmaline is a poor conductor of heat, which means it will not get hot quickly when exposed to heat. If you heat a genuine tourmaline, it will take longer to heat up than a fake stone.
Conclusion
Tourmaline is a beautiful and valuable gemstone, but there are fake stones on the market. To avoid being scammed, it’s important to know how to identify a genuine tourmaline. By checking the color, clarity, refractive index, density, and heat conductivity of the stone, you can determine if it’s the real thing or a fake. Remember to always buy from a reputable dealer and get a certificate of authenticity to ensure that you are getting a genuine tourmaline.
