Paying top dollar

for your diamonds since 1980

Real vs. Synthetic vs. Man-Made Diamonds

Posted on November 20th, 2019 by Joe G

There were and are still issues surrounding the Genuine vs. Synthetic (Cubic Zirconia & Moissanite) and now the much more difficult to detect, Lab-Created Man-Made diamond debate when it comes to diamonds. As diamond buyers in Chicago, we can usually spot a synthetic/fake almost immediately, but in some cases, it requires further examinations. To know if you’re diamonds are genuine, bring them in to determine the authenticity when it comes time to sell them.

Using Water

Get a glass and fill it with a healthy amount of water. Once the glass is filled, drop the diamond carefully into the glass and observe it. If the diamond sinks, it is real, but if it floats to the top or stays in the middle of the glass, your diamond is a fake one.

Using A Magnifying Glass

Looking through a magnifying glass allows you to spot any imperfections. If there are no imperfections, it’s likely you have a fake diamond. Real diamonds have imperfections, or another term you may be familiar with are inclusions. There are different types of diamond inclusions so make sure you contact us if you want to find out more about the diamonds you have.

Using A Black Light

Hold the diamond in front of a turned-on black light and if you can see a blue fluorescent light under the black light, you most likely have a real diamond. If you see a slightly green, yellow, or gray light, then your diamond isn’t real. However, you will best be able to discover if your diamond is real by visiting us and having an appraiser look at it.

Contact Chicago Gold Gallery

Contact us today if you are ready to have us buy your diamonds. We make sure to appraise it professionally and give you a fair price. We look forward to working with you!

← Back

Customer Testimonial

Had a Great Experience

I have dealt in coins and metals since the 80s. Had dealings with many dealers. Got scammed by a few. Chicago Gold is the only one I would recommend to my family or friends. Have your valuables appraised by them before you sell.


Date: 05/12/2022 • 5 / 5 stars ★★★★★

Awesome place!

What a super knowledgeable gemologist. After all that experience also they are soooo willing to help and answer all the questions I had. Excellent experience. They went above and beyond for me. Highly recommended. Super trustworthy.


Date: 01/20/2022 • 5 / 5 stars ★★★★★

I'll be back

Cashed in some silver coins and received a very fair exchange. Joe and Chris, were very friendly, and comfortable to deal with. Came back with some jewelry, and received a rough appraisal...again no pressure.


Date: 10/17/2023 • 5 / 5 stars ★★★★★

I would do business with them again

Good people who are honest, open and friendly. I'm glad I found them and not too far from my area.


Date: 01/02/2024 • 5 / 5 stars ★★★★★

How to Reach Us?

Get Directions

Contact Us

Get the most for your valuables.

1236 W. Devon Avenue
Chicago, IL 60660

Phone: 773-338-7787 Email: chgogoldgallery@aol.com

Hours: Mon- Fri: 10:15am-6pm, & Sat: 10:15am-5:00pm

Especially Wanted

  • Gold & Silver Coins
  • Bullion Gold, Silver, & Platinum
  • Scrap & Old Gold
  • Sterling Silverware
  • Dental Gold
  • Coins & Coin Collections
  • Franklin Mint
  • Collectibles
  • Rare Coins
  • Antique & Modern Jewelry
  • Diamonds
  • Watches - Rolex, Patek Philippe
  • Broken Jewelry
  • Tiffany & Company - Cartier
  • Vintage & Modern Guitars