In the field of jewelry identification, the diamond tester is a commonly used tool. Although it is primarily designed for the detection of diamonds, it can also be used to a certain extent for preliminary testing of rubies. Understanding how to use a diamond tester to test rubies can help jewelry lovers and practitioners to have a basic judgment of the authenticity and characteristics of rubies. However, it should be noted that this test method has certain limitations and cannot completely replace professional gemstone identification.
How a diamond tester works
Principle of thermal conductivity detection
A diamond tester typically works based on the principle of thermal conductivity. Diamonds have extremely high thermal conductivity, which means they can quickly transfer heat. The tester has a heated probe. When the probe touches a diamond, the heat is rapidly dissipated through the diamond, and the tester measures this rate of heat transfer. If the rate is within the range expected for a diamond, it indicates a positive result. For example, the tester sends a small amount of heat to the stone, and if the heat dissipates almost instantly, it may suggest the stone is a diamond.
Electrical Conductivity Consideration
Some diamond testers also take into account electrical conductivity. Most diamonds are electrical insulators. However, this aspect is more relevant when differentiating between natural and synthetic diamonds or when testing other gemstones with different electrical properties. Ruby, for example, has different electrical conductivity compared to diamond. Understanding these basic principles of the diamond tester’s operation is crucial before using it to test a ruby.
Preparation before the test
Clean ruby
Before using the diamond tester, it’s essential to clean the ruby thoroughly. Any dirt, grease, or other substances on the surface of the ruby can interfere with the test results. You can use a soft, lint – free cloth and a mild jewelry cleaner to gently wipe the ruby. Make sure to dry it completely before the test. For instance, if there is a layer of hand lotion on the ruby, it might affect how the heat is transferred during the thermal conductivity test and lead to inaccurate results.
Familiarize Yourself with the Tester
Take some time to understand the functions and settings of the diamond tester you’re using. Different testers may have different operating procedures and sensitivity levels. Read the user manual carefully to know how to turn it on, adjust the settings, and interpret the results. Some testers have a simple on – off button and a single – mode operation for testing thermal conductivity, while others may have more advanced settings such as adjustable sensitivity or the ability to test for both thermal and electrical conductivity.
Thermal conductivity test
Positioning the Probe
Hold the ruby firmly and place the heated probe of the diamond tester on a flat, clean surface of the ruby. Make sure the probe makes good contact with the stone. You might need to adjust the position of the ruby or the probe slightly to get the best contact. For example, if the ruby is set in a ring, try to place the probe on the exposed part of the ruby’s surface, away from any metal parts that could affect the heat transfer.
Observing the Results
Once the probe is in contact with the ruby, observe the tester’s indicator. If the ruby has a relatively high thermal conductivity, the tester may give a reading that is different from what it would show for a non – gemstone material. However, it’s important to note that rubies have a lower thermal conductivity than diamonds. So, if the tester shows a very high – level reading similar to that of a diamond, it’s likely that the stone is not a ruby. On the other hand, a very low reading might indicate that the stone is a poor – quality imitation or a material with extremely low thermal conductivity. For example, a glass imitation of a ruby will usually show a much lower thermal conductivity reading compared to a genuine ruby.
Considering Electrical Conductivity (if applicable)
Checking the Tester’s Capability
Not all diamond testers can test electrical conductivity. If your tester has this function, it can provide additional information about the ruby. Ruby is a semi – conductive gemstone, which means it has different electrical properties compared to a diamond. Before testing, make sure the tester is properly calibrated for electrical conductivity tests.
Conducting the Electrical Test
If the tester has the electrical conductivity function, follow the instructions in the user manual to perform the test. The results can help you further distinguish the ruby from other materials. For example, a synthetic material that mimics the appearance of a ruby may have different electrical conductivity characteristics. By comparing the electrical conductivity reading of the tested stone with the known properties of a ruby, you can get a better idea of whether the stone is genuine or not.
Conclusion
Using a diamond tester to test a ruby can be a useful initial step in the identification process. By understanding the tester’s working principles, preparing the ruby properly, conducting both thermal and electrical conductivity tests (if possible), and carefully interpreting the results, you can gain some insights into the authenticity of the ruby. However, always keep in mind the limitations of this method and consider seeking professional help for a more reliable identification. This knowledge can help you make more informed decisions when dealing with rubies and other gemstones.
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