The question of distinguishing an emerald from fakes is quite acute, as modern manufacturing methods and technologies are constantly developing. When buying jewelry in specialized and well-known stores, we do not always pay attention to their originality, because there is no way to check it. How to proceed if you want to place an order at a jewelry store, where you go for the first time? It is precisely for these purposes that you need to know how to identify a natural emerald. This stone is one of the most popular among jewelry, so it is often faked. You will be able to avoid falling for the tricks of fraudsters after carefully studying this article.

We should start with the fact that emerald belongs to the beryl group. For several decades, only kings and queens could afford to wear jewelry from this rich resource, but today the situation has changed. Now almost every person who has enough financial resources can buy a piece of jewelry made of this stone. The mineral is distinguished by its incredible properties: it is not only attractive from an external point of view, but also has a number of unique characteristics. Due to its features, an emerald can become not only beautiful decoration to emphasize status, but also an excellent means of protection against unclean influences.

How to choose the perfect emerald and not fall into the network of fakes?

It is not so easy to fake a mineral, but it is quite possible. Fraudsters often use the imitation method. In some stores, you may be told that the jewelry is made of this emerald, although in fact, particles of jade, phianite, tourmaline, green garnet, and other impurities are added to it. Sometimes two stones (duplet) are glued together, but they have nothing to do with a natural mineral. You can also find emerald floors that are just as expensive but look different in reality. Often, stones can be connected to each other with the help of green paste, and fragments of natural stone are usually attached from the outside. Thus, it is difficult for an ordinary person to find the difference.

How to distinguish an artificial emerald from a natural one? paradoxes

In addition to standard methods of forgery, it is worth mentioning unconventional ones. If, for example, you notice that the jewelry has a clear loss of color or other defects, do not be in a hurry to despair. The fact is that no pronounced defect can serve exclusively as a sign of naturalness. This is due to the fact that over the years the stone loses its properties, but this fact does not affect its durability in any way. However, if you notice defects or problems with the shade (at different angles, the color shimmers), this is a reason to bargain with the seller. You can get a natural mineral at a reduced price if you can understand it in more detail. For this, it is necessary to conduct an assessment.

Despite the wide range of technologies, even the most experienced experts do not always know how to distinguish a natural emerald. Often this will require the use of special equipment. A magnifying glass, a filter and a device — a refractometer — are required to carry out the appropriate expert examination. Only in the presence of these tools can you get the most accurate results. We understand that not every ordinary person has these items in his arsenal (except a magnifying glass), so we suggest you learn how to find the differences with the naked eye. There are several easy factors that you should definitely pay attention to when buying, because you probably don’t want to get a fake for a lot of money.

What to pay attention to?

1. Cleanliness of decoration. If you find various inclusions that are visible even under the sun or a magnifying glass, you can not worry. The emerald is real. Gas, solid or liquid impregnation — there is no difference, because a natural mineral has at least one of them. At the same time, you need to understand that the doublet can also have inclusions, but there should be no cracks or chips.
2. Stability. Of course, it will be difficult for an ordinary buyer to check the strength and durability of a stone by hitting it with some objects. You simply won’t be allowed to. However, you can ask the manager or salesperson to provide proof.
3. Sharpness of faces. Be sure to remember the fact that a real stone has high definition boundaries. A fake usually has smooth edges. You should also pay attention to the surface — it can be treated with special oil or another solution. Make sure that there are no additional impurities.

Answering the question of how to recognize a real emerald, we found the main factor is color. Since chromium is part of this stone, it has a pronounced green tint. The color should be fantastic and uniform. Fakes usually have shades of yellow or a brighter color when pouring, so be sure to pay attention to this fact. In addition, a natural mineral, as we said before, should include small defects. Of course, it is impossible to notice them with the naked eye. But when magnified with an ordinary magnifying glass, they can be visible, and this is normal. Different small-shaped bubbles, small abrasions, cracks inside — all this will definitely speak of naturalness. But again — in this case, you can reduce the cost.

The information we have provided above may not be enough for everyone. Therefore, if you still ask the question — how to determine the authenticity of an emerald, we will give another way. You will only need to request a certificate confirming the fact of naturalness. The inspection is carried out by a specialist, whose position is called a gemmologist. Only he can provide a testimony that will definitely not confuse you. Of course, the cost may be slightly higher if you have such a document, but you will be 100% sure of authenticity.

What factors influence the price policy of emerald?

Often, many people ask why one piece of emerald jewelry is more expensive, and another is a little cheaper. Before answering this question, it is necessary to understand that the price may depend on its deposit. You can also ask the seller what the history of the stone is, because this also affects pricing. At the same time, you need to beware of fraudsters, because some can easily make up a story. Also, the color of the product strongly affects the cost. The more saturated the green (chrome), the higher its price.

Some jewelry owners are interested in how to check an emerald at home? It is quite difficult to answer this question, because for a full-fledged and competent analysis, you need the appropriate tools, which we wrote about above. But you can always use simple methods. We also mentioned them in this article. The best solution for each of you will be to buy products directly from the manufacturer or official dealer. Also, the presence of certificates can protect you from counterfeiting. We wish you pleasant, profitable and safe orders!