Peridot, the gorgeous August birthstone, has quite effortlessly made its way into hearts. Unfortunately, this universal love has resulted in several imitations being sold in the market today.
So how do you spot a fake? Continue reading to find out…
- The Color Test
- The Refraction Test
- Check for Inclusions
- Things to Keep in Mind When Buying Peridot
- Check the Legitimacy of the Seller
- Check the Certificate of Authenticity
- Return and Refund Policy
1. The Color Test
Peridots are known for their bright olive-green color with a yellow undertone. This shade will stay constant regardless of the light under which you may view it. The same cannot be said for imitation pieces made from materials like glass, plastic and quartz, which sometimes showcase slightly different shades when illuminated by different sources.
Hence, for the first test, hold your gem under a lamp and again under natural light. If you notice the jewel appearing unusually lighter or darker then it is most likely to be a fake.
2. The Refraction Test
Hold your stone against light and look into it with the help of a magnifying glass. Peridots typically have a strong birefringence or double refraction. This means that the light that enters them is usually split into two rays. So if you happen to notice only a single ray of light emitting from the gemstone, then it is probably not authentic.
3. Check for Inclusions
Majority of peridots are eye-clean, which means that they do not have inclusions that are visible to the naked eye. As such, peridots with absolutely no flaws are extremely rare and not easily available. Hence, the best way to distinguish between a fake and a real gemstone is to view the gem with the help of a jeweler’s loupe. If you see small cracks or other imperfections on your stone, then it is probably a real one.
Note: If you’re still unsure after doing any of these tests then simply get the stone checked by a trusted professional to confirm its authenticity.
Things to Keep in Mind When Buying Peridot
As touched upon before, an untrained eye can find it difficult to distinguish between a real and fake stone. However, by keeping the following tips in mind, you are less likely to buy an imitation gem.
1. Check the Legitimacy of the Seller
Confirming the authenticity of the brand is always an important step when buying fine jewelry. To do this, go to the seller’s website and scroll through their credentials and certifications. Next, go through the comments present on their social media handles and search for both positive and negative reviews. This will not only ensure that you’re buying from a legitimate brand but will also make you aware of any issues that you may face throughout the buying process.
2. Check the Certificate of Authenticity
Every reputed brand will provide you with this important piece of document. It will state different details about the gem, such as the quality grade, carat weight, the kind of enhancement done (if any), etc. Alternatively, you can also opt for jewelry embellished with peridots certified by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Their main aim is to protect both jewelry enthusiasts and new buyers from imitation pieces. So you can rest assured that you’re bringing home an authentic gem.
3. Return and Refund Policy
If you’re unhappy with the purchase, the company should allow you to exchange it or get a full refund. So to ensure a hassle-free shopping experience, take the time out to read the jewelry brand’s return and refund policy and get in touch with their customer service if you have any concerns.
