Sapphire is a stunning gemstone that has been prized for its beauty and durability for centuries. Unfortunately, not all sapphires are created equal, and some may be fake or synthetic. If you are considering buying a sapphire or already have one in your possession, it’s important to know how to tell if it’s real. In this article, we will discuss several ways to determine if your sapphire stone is genuine.
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Look for Flaws and Inclusions
One way to tell if your sapphire is real is to examine it closely for flaws and inclusions. Natural sapphires typically have imperfections like bubbles, lines, or specks, while synthetic sapphires are often flawless. However, it’s worth noting that some synthetic sapphires may have inclusions added to make them appear more authentic.
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Check the Color
Sapphire comes in a range of colors, including blue, yellow, green, pink, and purple. However, blue sapphires are the most common and popular. A real blue sapphire should have a rich, deep color that is evenly distributed throughout the stone. If the color is too light or uneven, it may be a fake.
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Conduct a Scratch Test
Sapphire is a very hard mineral, scoring a 9 out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale. This means that it can scratch most other minerals, including glass. To conduct a scratch test, try scratching the surface of the stone with a piece of glass. If the stone is real sapphire, it should scratch the glass, but the glass should not scratch the sapphire.
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Use a UV Light
Another way to tell if your sapphire is real is to use a UV light. Most natural sapphires will fluoresce under UV light, appearing bright and vibrant. However, some synthetic sapphires may also fluoresce, so this test alone may not be conclusive.
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Seek Professional Verification
If you are still unsure whether your sapphire is real, it’s best to seek professional verification from a gemologist or reputable jeweler. They can examine the stone closely and conduct additional tests to determine its authenticity.
In conclusion, determining whether a sapphire stone is real requires careful examination and testing. By looking for flaws and inclusions, checking the color, conducting a scratch test, using a UV light, and seeking professional verification, you can ensure that your sapphire is the real deal.
