If you want to buy a gemstone, you need clear facts. Many people feel unsure when they compare a real stone with an imitation. The market has natural gems, lab created stones, treated gems, and plastic or glass copies. Each type looks different when you study it closely. This page on How to Identify Real vs Imitation Gemstones gives you simple steps that help you check stones with confidence.

Dalakosa creates jewellery that uses genuine gemstones. Our artisans use time tested methods and modern tools to shape stones with care. When you understand how real stones behave, you feel safe when you choose pieces that stay valuable for years.

This guide uses basic words, practical tips, and proven checks that you can apply on your gemstones.

Why people confuse real and imitation gemstones

Many imitations look bright and clean. They have even color and strong shine. This gives the idea that they are real. Natural stones have small marks that form over time. These marks give each stone a unique look. When you know what to look for, you can tell the difference fast.

Some lab stones look similar to natural stones. These stones have no wear or natural marks. They may still have value, but they do not have the same rarity. When you learn How to Identify Real vs Imitation Gemstones, you protect your money and avoid wrong buys.

Key checks you can do at home

These simple checks help you study stones before you buy them. They also help when you review your own jewellery.

1. Look at the color

Natural stones have minor shifts in color. Imitations usually show a flat shade or strong uniform color.

Signs of real stones
• Slight color bands
• Tones that shift under light
• Variation when you rotate the stone

Signs of imitation
• Flat color
• No change under light
• Overly bright tones that look too perfect

2. Check clarity

Real stones have inclusions. These look like small lines, dots, or clouds inside the stone. They form during natural growth. You can see these with a small magnifying glass.

Imitation stones often show no inclusions. If the stone looks spotless, you should check other points.

3. Study the weight

Glass and plastic copies weigh less than real gemstones. For example, a glass ruby weighs more than a plastic ruby copy but less than a natural corundum ruby.

You can compare two stones of the same size. If you know normal weights, you can sense differences fast.

4. Touch the surface

Real gemstones feel cool on your skin when you place them on your palm. Plastic copies feel warm.

This simple test helps when you check stones without equipment.

5. Study the cut and shape

Real stones need skill to cut. You may see small marks that show hand cutting. Imitation stones often have sharp uniform edges because machines press or mold them.

6. Check the refractive effect

Real gemstones bend light. This gives depth and life to the stone. When you rotate the stone, you see sparkle from inner layers.

Glass or plastic bends light in a flat way. You may notice a dull look. This check helps a lot in How to Identify Real vs Imitation Gemstones.

7. Review the price

If the price is very low, the stone is likely not real. Genuine gems take time to mine, cut, and polish. A price that seems too low often signals an imitation.

8. Ask for a certificate

Trusted sellers provide gemstone certificates that show origin, grade, and treatments. These certificates list:
• Weight
• Dimensions
• Clarity
• Cut
• Color
• Treatment details

Certificates come from labs like GIA or IGI. If a seller refuses to share a certificate, you should be careful.

Checks that need tools

Some tests need expert tools. Dalakosa works with skilled gem specialists who do these checks in our workshop.

1. Light test with a gem torch

This test shows how light passes through the stone. Natural stones show patterns that copies cannot match. It helps with stones like emerald, ruby, and sapphire.

2. UV light test

Many natural stones glow under UV light. The glow pattern varies based on the stone type. Imitations usually glow in a strong single tone.

3. Hardness test

Each gemstone has a hardness level on the Mohs scale. For example, diamonds score 10, sapphires score 9, and quartz scores 7. If the stone scratches too easily, it may not be real.

4. Thermal conductivity test

Diamonds pass heat fast. Tools check this rate in seconds. If a stone fails this check, it is likely not a diamond.

Why choosing real gemstones matters

When you learn How to Identify Real vs Imitation Gemstones, you protect your purchase. Real gemstones keep value. They pass from one generation to another. They fit luxury jewellery because they offer natural shine and long life.

Imitation gemstones can break, fade, or lose shine with time. They also do not hold any resale value.

How Dalakosa ensures authenticity

We use real gemstones in all our collections. Our artisans follow strict checks before setting stones into jewellery. We inspect stones using magnification, thermal tools, and light tests. We also verify each gemstone with certified gem experts.

Dalakosa avoids treated or synthetic stones in fine collections. When a stone is treated or lab grown, we share full details with you. You always know what you buy.

Each piece moves through steps that ensure:
• Genuine gemstone selection
• Safe handling
• Accurate cut
• Correct grading
• Secure setting in metal

Our approach helps you trust your jewellery. When you wear a Dalakosa piece, you know your gemstone is real.

Tips for buyers who want real gemstones

Use these simple steps when you plan to buy a gemstone.

• Ask for a certificate.
• Compare the weight with known standards.
• Study color and clarity under good light.
• Use a magnifying glass to check inclusions.
• Touch the stone to check if it feels cool.
• Choose trusted sellers who share full details.
• Avoid deals that look too cheap.

Final thoughts

Understanding How to Identify Real vs Imitation Gemstones helps you make smart choices. It gives you control when you shop for fine jewellery. With the right checks, you can spot real stones with ease.

Dalakosa supports you with expert guidance and genuine gemstones that reflect years of skill and care. If you want safe and clear information, our team is ready to answer your questions and help you select stones that stay beautiful for life.