How to Test if a Crystal is Real at Home

Crystals have become increasingly popular in recent years, with people using them for everything from healing to meditation. However, with the rise in popularity has also come an increase in fake crystals. If you’re not sure whether or not your crystal is real, there are a few simple tests you can do at home.

1. The Scratch Test

One of the easiest ways to test a crystal is to scratch it with a sharp object. If the crystal is real, it should not scratch easily. However, if the crystal is fake, it will likely scratch easily.

To do the scratch test, simply take a sharp object, such as a knife or a nail, and try to scratch the crystal. If the crystal scratches easily, it is likely fake.

2. The Hardness Test

Another way to test a crystal is to check its hardness. Crystals are typically hard, so if your crystal is soft, it is likely fake.

To do the hardness test, simply try to scratch the crystal with your fingernail. If the crystal scratches easily, it is likely fake.

3. The Refractive Index Test

The refractive index is a measure of how much light bends when it passes through a material. Crystals have a high refractive index, so if your crystal does not bend light very much, it is likely fake.

To do the refractive index test, simply shine a light through the crystal. If the light bends a lot, the crystal is likely real. If the light does not bend very much, the crystal is likely fake.

4. The Specific Gravity Test

The specific gravity is a measure of how dense a material is. Crystals are typically dense, so if your crystal is not very dense, it is likely fake.

To do the specific gravity test, simply weigh the crystal in air and then weigh it in water. The specific gravity is calculated by dividing the weight in air by the weight in water. If the specific gravity is less than 2.5, the crystal is likely fake.

5. The Thermal Conductivity Test

Thermal conductivity is a measure of how well a material conducts heat. Crystals are typically good conductors of heat, so if your crystal does not conduct heat very well, it is likely fake.

To do the thermal conductivity test, simply hold the crystal in your hand. If the crystal feels warm, it is likely real. If the crystal feels cold, it is likely fake.

6. The Electrical Conductivity Test

Electrical conductivity is a measure of how well a material conducts electricity. Crystals are typically poor conductors of electricity, so if your crystal conducts electricity well, it is likely fake.

To do the electrical conductivity test, simply touch the crystal with the terminals of a voltmeter. If the voltmeter reads a high resistance, the crystal is likely real. If the voltmeter reads a low resistance, the crystal is likely fake.

Tips and Tricks

• If you are not sure whether or not your crystal is real, it is always best to have it tested by a professional.
• There are a number of online resources that can help you identify real crystals.
• Be aware that some fake crystals may be made of harmful materials.
• If you are unsure whether or not your crystal is safe, it is best to avoid using it.

Conclusion

Crystals can be a beautiful and meaningful addition to your life. However, it is important to be aware of the possibility of fake crystals. By following the simple tests outlined in this article, you can be sure that your crystal is real.