Gemstones have long captured our imaginations, their allure rooted in both their rarity and beauty. But how can you tell if the jewel you're holding is indeed authentic? Here at La Mine d'Or, where we've upheld the gold standard in jewellery for decades, we're dedicated to enlightening our valued customers about the world of gemstones. Let's embark on this journey of discovery, from the gleam of Sapphires to the richness of Rubies.
What Defines a 'Real' Gemstone?
A genuine gemstone, whether it's the deep blue of Sapphires or the serene green of Emeralds, originates from the earth, shaped and polished to reveal its beauty.
Natural vs. Synthetic vs. Imitation Gemstones
While La Mine d'Or doesn't deal in synthetic diamonds, it's crucial for every customer to understand the difference. Natural gemstones come from the earth, while synthetic ones, though having similar properties, are lab-grown. Imitations simply resemble the real gems but don't share their properties.
Physical Tests for Gemstone Authenticity
The Scratch Test
A genuine gem, be it a sparkling Emerald or a subtle Morganite, resists scratches more than its imitation counterparts.
The Fog Test
A genuine gemstone, owing to its density, will clear up quicker when you breathe on it, unlike imitations which retain fog longer.
Density and Weight
Real gemstones, like the luxurious pearl or the elegant aquamarine, are denser and usually heavier than fakes.
Examine the Gemstone's Appearance
Colour Consistency
Nature's creations, from radiant Rubies to tranquil Topaz, can exhibit slight inconsistencies in colour, a hint of their authenticity. Too-perfect colours might warrant further investigation.
Inclusions
They're the natural fingerprints found within genuine gemstones. Synthetic gems sometimes mimic these, but the patterns often differ.
Luster and Refraction
The way a genuine gemstone interacts with light is distinct and far superior to that of glass or other imitations.
Leveraging Professional Tools
Loupe or Magnifying Glass Examination
At both our Downtown Moncton and Halifax Showroom locations, we routinely employ magnification to inspect gemstones, a testament to our commitment to quality.
Refractometer and Spectroscope Analysis
These instruments, through measuring refractive index and absorption patterns respectively, can help confirm the genuineness of a gemstone.
Why Professional Assistance is Crucial
For those keen on Sapphires, Emeralds, Rubies, pearls, morganite, aquamarine, topaz, and even custom options like alexandrite, a certified gemologist's expertise is invaluable.
Our longstanding affiliation with Rolex emphasizes our adherence to the highest standards. A trip to La Mine d'Or offers more than just a purchase - it's an all-inclusive jewellery experience. We pride ourselves on our:
Rich history and founding principles.
Unwavering commitment to customer service.
Mastery of custom designs, intricate repairs, and curated collections.
Conclusion
At La Mine d'Or, we believe that the true beauty of a gemstone is revealed only when its authenticity is confirmed. Let our expertise guide you in this captivating world of gemstones. Your trust is our commitment, and your satisfaction, is our jewel.
Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting your gem journey, make an appointment to ensure you're investing in genuine treasures. For more insights, visit our blog or get in touch with us at our Downtown Moncton (41 Botsford St, Moncton, NB E1C 4W8, (506) 857-1980) or Halifax Showroom (276 Bedford Hwy - #101, Halifax, NS B3M 2K6, (902) 457-4745) locations.
For a deeper dive into the world of gemstones, visit our blog or explore our curated collections, custom designs, and repair services here.