How to Identify a Gemstones
Let’s face it, gems are the OG fashion statement. Long before designer handbags and iconic sneakers, people were flaunting their sparkly stones. But here’s the thing: not all that glitters is gold—or ruby or sapphire for that matter.
Knowing your gemstones can feel like being an insider of the world of jewels. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Let’s make identifying gemstones as effortless as picking the perfect pair of earrings.
1. The Look Test
First impressions matter—especially with gemstones. Take a good, long look at the gem. Notice the color, clarity, and cut. Does it sparkle like the brightest star, or does it look a little cloudy?
Here’s the tea:
- Color - A ruby, for example, should be deep red like a perfect pout, not pale or washed out.
- Clarity - Is it crystal clear, or does it have tiny specks (called inclusions)? Fun fact: natural gemstones often have inclusions, which can be their charm!
- Cut tells you about the gem’s sparkle. The better the cut, the more it plays with light.
Pro Tip: If it’s too perfect, it might be synthetic. Real gems are like us—beautiful, unique, and a little flawed.
2. Touch and Feel
How does it feel in your hand when you pick it up? Genuine gemstones are typically heavier because they’re dense. If it feels too light, it could be a fake—or worse, plastic.
- Cool to the Touch: Real gemstones often feel cool, even if they’ve been sitting out. A faux gem will warm up fast.
- Texture Check: Smooth or silky is good. Gritty or uneven? That’s a no-go for a high-quality gem.
Think of this like checking the fabric of a designer dress.
3. Throw Some Light
You can simply throw your phone flashlight on the gem. Look at how the light bounces. Real gemstones reflect light in unique ways:
- Diamonds will sparkle like a confetti explosion, reflecting every color of the rainbow.
- Sapphires and emeralds tend to have a softer, more luxurious glow.
- Glass fakes? They’ll give you a dull, flat reflection.
4. Gentle Scratch Test
Okay, we know scratching something so precious sounds terrifying, but hear me out. Genuine gemstones are really hard. This is where the Mohs scale of hardness comes in (yes, science meets style).
- A diamond is a 10/10 on the Mohs scale—literally indestructible.
- Sapphires and rubies score a 9— quite tough!
- Emeralds are a 7-8, so treat them with a little TLC.
Try lightly scratching the gem with something less hard (like a coin). If it scratches easily, it’s probably a fake.
5. The Water Test: Sink or Swim
Here’s a hack for you. Drop the gemstone into a glass of water and watch what happens.
- Real gems are dense, so they’ll sink right in and take place at the bottom of the glass.
- Fakes or lighter materials like plastic might float or sink super slowly.
This trick works best for smaller stones, but it’s a fun experiment.
6. UV Light Test
Shine a UV light (aka blacklight) on the gem. Some stones fluoresce under UV light, revealing hidden colors:
- Diamonds can glow blue.
- Rubies light up red or pink.
- Fakes? Nada. They’ll just sit there, looking basic.
It’s like gemstones have their own secret nightlife.
7. Trust the Experts
Let’s be real—sometimes, you just need a pro. Jewellers and gemologists have tools that can analyse a gem’s authenticity faster than you can say “sparkle.” If you’re investing in a big gem, always ask for a certificate of authenticity. It’s like the ultimate proof for all the good gems.
Why Gemstones Matter Beyond the Bling
Gemstones aren’t just accessories; they’re living stories, shaped by the earth over millions of years. They’ve endured immense heat, pressure, and transformation to become the rare beauties they are today. Each cut, each facet, holds so much elegance, energy, and a unique charm that goes beyond just aesthetics. Wearing one isn’t just about style—it’s about carrying a story, a piece of nature’s best work. Whether it’s for luck, love, or legacy, a gemstone is more than an ornament—it’s a statement that goes beyond time.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to identify gemstones isn’t just practical—it’s necessary. Whether you’re shopping for a gift, adding to your collection, or just flexing your newfound gem knowledge, remember this: the right gemstone, like the right outfit, makes you feel like the main character.
At Kumari, every gemstone tells a story. Explore Kumari’s gold and gemstone collections to find designs that perfectly balance elegance and timeless charm.
So go ahead, channel your inner diva, and let those jewels sparkle as bright as your confidence. Because when you know your gems, you know what you’re wearing. What can be more fun than that? Happy shopping!