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As the global crystal market continues to expand, unscrupulous sellers are cashing in on the growing demand for these precious stones by flogging fakes. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), synthetic crystals account for up to 90% of the gemstones sold in the United States. That’s a staggering statistic, especially considering that fake crystals can cost just as much as the real thing.
So, how can you tell if a crystal is real? While there are a few definitive tests that can only be performed by a gemologist, there are also a number of simple tests that you can do at home. Here are a few of the most effective:
The Scratch Test
One of the simplest ways to test the authenticity of a crystal is to scratch it with a sharp object. Real crystals are very hard, so they will not scratch easily. However, fake crystals are often made of softer materials, such as glass or plastic, which will scratch easily.
To perform the scratch test, simply take a sharp object, such as a knife or a nail, and gently scratch the surface of the crystal. If the crystal scratches easily, it is likely fake. However, if the crystal does not scratch, it is not necessarily real. Some synthetic crystals are made of very hard materials that will not scratch easily.
The Heat Test
Another simple test that you can perform at home is the heat test. Real crystals are not affected by heat, so they will not change color or shape when they are heated. However, fake crystals are often made of materials that will change color or shape when they are heated.
To perform the heat test, simply hold the crystal over a flame for a few seconds. If the crystal changes color or shape, it is likely fake. However, if the crystal does not change, it is not necessarily real. Some synthetic crystals are made of materials that will not change color or shape when they are heated.
The Magnifying Glass Test
Another way to test the authenticity of a crystal is to examine it with a magnifying glass. Real crystals are typically very clear and free of inclusions. However, fake crystals are often cloudy or contain inclusions.
To perform the magnifying glass test, simply hold the crystal up to a magnifying glass and examine it closely. If the crystal is cloudy or contains inclusions, it is likely fake. However, if the crystal is clear and free of inclusions, it is not necessarily real. Some synthetic crystals are made of very clear materials that will not contain inclusions.
The Hardness Test
The hardness test is a more definitive way to test the authenticity of a crystal. However, it requires you to have access to a specialized tool called a Mohs hardness scale. The Mohs hardness scale is a scale of 10 minerals, each of which is harder than the previous one. The scale ranges from 1 (talc) to 10 (diamond).
To perform the hardness test, simply scratch the crystal with each of the minerals on the Mohs hardness scale. If the crystal is scratched by a mineral that is lower on the scale, it is likely fake. However, if the crystal is not scratched by any of the minerals on the scale, it is likely real.
Other Ways to Test the Authenticity of a Crystal
In addition to the tests described above, there are a number of other ways to test the authenticity of a crystal. These methods are less definitive, but they can still be helpful in determining whether or not a crystal is real.
- The Color Test: Real crystals come in a wide variety of colors. However, some colors are more common than others. For example, amethyst is typically purple, citrine is typically yellow, and rose quartz is typically pink. If a crystal is a color that is not typically associated with that type of crystal, it is likely fake.
- The Shape Test: Real crystals often have a specific shape. For example, quartz crystals are typically hexagonal, and amethyst crystals are typically octahedral. If a crystal does not have the typical shape for that type of crystal, it is likely fake.
- The Weight Test: Real crystals are typically heavy for their size. If a crystal feels light for its size, it is likely fake.
Conclusion
If you are unsure whether or not a crystal is real, it is best to have it tested by a gemologist. However, the tests described above can help you to narrow down the possibilities and determine whether or not a crystal is likely to be fake.
If you are looking to buy real crystals, there are a few things you can do to avoid getting ripped off.
- Buy from a reputable dealer. There are a number of reputable crystal dealers online and in stores. Do your research and make sure that you are buying from a dealer that has a good reputation.
- Ask for a certificate of authenticity. A certificate of authenticity is a document that verifies that a crystal is real. If a dealer is unable to provide you with a certificate of authenticity, it is best to look elsewhere.
- Inspect the crystal carefully. Before you buy a crystal, inspect it carefully for any signs of fakery. Look for scratches, inclusions, and other imperfections. If you are unsure about whether or not a crystal is real, it is best to have it tested by a gemologist.
In addition to the information provided above, here are a few additional tips that may be helpful:
- Be aware of the different types of fake crystals. Fake crystals can be made from a variety of materials, including glass, plastic, and even dyed quartz. Be aware of the different types of fake crystals so that you can avoid being fooled.
- Educate yourself about crystals. The more you know about crystals, the better equipped you will be to spot fakes. Read books, articles, and online resources to learn more about the different types of crystals and their properties.
- Trust your instincts. If you have a gut feeling that a crystal is fake, it is probably best to listen to your instincts. There are a lot of fake crystals on the market, so it is important to be cautious.
- Crystal: A solid mineral with a regular and repeating arrangement of atoms.
- Fake crystal: A crystal that is not real.
- Gemologist: A person who is trained to identify and evaluate gemstones.
- Inclusions: Foreign materials that are trapped within a crystal.
- Mohs hardness scale: A scale of 10 minerals, each of which is harder than the previous one.
- Synthetic crystal: A crystal that has been created in a laboratory.
- How can I tell if a crystal is real? There are a number of ways to test the authenticity of a crystal. Some of the most effective tests include the scratch test, the heat test, and the magnifying glass test.
- What are some tips for buying real crystals? When buying real crystals, it is important to buy from a reputable dealer, ask for a certificate of authenticity, and inspect the crystal carefully.
- What should I do if I think I have a fake crystal? If you think you have a fake crystal, it is best to have it tested by a gemologist. A gemologist will be able to definitively determine whether or not a crystal is real.
Crystals are beautiful and fascinating objects that can add a touch of magic to any home. However, it is important to be aware of the fact that there are a lot of fake crystals on the market. By following the tips in this article, you can avoid getting ripped off and ensure that you are getting the real thing.
