Real vs Fake Gemstones: How to Spot Genuine Stones

Fake and synthetic stones can look convincing to the naked eye. Here are practical checks gemologists use to separate genuine natural gemstones from imitations.

Look for natural inclusions

Under a 10x loupe, natural stones show tiny crystals, feathers and colour zoning. Glass often shows round gas bubbles and swirl marks — a giveaway of imitation.

The temperature test

Natural gemstones feel cool to the touch and warm up slowly. Glass and plastic warm quickly and feel lighter.

Check colour and flaws

A stone that is perfectly flawless, extremely vivid and very cheap is almost always synthetic or glass. Real stones have character.

Beware "too good" prices

If a large, flawless Ruby or Emerald is priced far below the market, treat it with suspicion. Genuine stones are priced by carat and quality.

When in doubt, certify

The only definitive proof is laboratory testing. For valuable stones, buy from a seller who offers a certificate of authenticity and can arrange independent lab certification.

Buy Genuine Gemstones in Pakistan

Pure Gems specialises in 100% natural, original gemstones, each hand-inspected by our gemologists and priced honestly per carat. We disclose any treatment openly and provide certificates of authenticity. Shopping from Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, Faisalabad, Multan, Peshawar or anywhere in Pakistan, you can order with confidence and pay via Cash on Delivery — and our 7-day return policy means you can buy without worry.