Sapphire is a beautiful and valuable gemstone that has been prized for centuries. It is a type of corundum mineral that comes in a variety of colors, including blue, pink, yellow, green, and white. However, not all sapphires are created equal, and it is important to know how to check if a sapphire is real before making a purchase. In this article, we will explore several methods for testing the authenticity of sapphires.
Visual Inspection
The first step in checking if a sapphire is real is to visually inspect it. Real sapphires should have a smooth, polished surface with no visible scratches, chips, or other imperfections. They should also have a consistent color and be free from any visible inclusions or bubbles. If the sapphire looks too perfect, it may be a sign that it is synthetic or lab-created.
Check the Weight
Sapphire is a relatively heavy gemstone, so if a sapphire feels lighter than expected, it may not be real. You can test the weight of a sapphire by holding it in your hand and comparing it to a similar-sized object that you know to be real, such as a coin or another gemstone.
Conduct a Scratch Test
Sapphire is one of the hardest minerals, with a rating of 9 on the Mohs hardness scale. This means that it is nearly impossible to scratch with a material that is less hard than sapphire, such as a fingernail or a piece of glass. You can conduct a scratch test by attempting to scratch the surface of the sapphire with a known hard material, such as a diamond or a piece of corundum.
Test for Refraction
One of the most reliable ways to test the authenticity of a sapphire is to test its refraction properties. Real sapphires have a high refractive index, which means that they bend light more than other materials. You can test the refraction of a sapphire by placing it on a flat surface and shining a light through it. If the light refracts, or bends, it is a good sign that the sapphire is real.
Test for Thermal Conductivity
Real sapphires are also good conductors of heat, so you can test the authenticity of a sapphire by holding it in your hand for a few minutes and then placing it on a piece of glass or metal. If the sapphire leaves a visible fog or condensation mark on the surface, it is a good sign that it is real.
In conclusion, there are several methods that you can use to check the authenticity of sapphires, including visual inspection, weight, scratch tests, refraction tests, and thermal conductivity tests. If you are unsure about the authenticity of a sapphire, it is always best to consult with a professional gemologist or jewelry appraiser. With proper testing and evaluation, you can ensure that you are getting a real and valuable sapphire.
