Diamond & Moissanite Tester Guide

Learn how dual-testers distinguish between natural diamonds and moissanite.

Diamond & Moissanite Tester Guide

Learn how dual-testers use both thermal and electrical conductivity to distinguish between natural diamonds and moissanite.

Try the Simulator

Select a material below to see how a standard dual-tester would react. Modern testers first check thermal conductivity (for diamonds) and then electrical conductivity (to rule out moissanite).

READY

Awaiting Stone

Need for Dual Testers

Older diamond testers only measured thermal conductivity. Because diamonds transfer heat rapidly, this worked well to separate them from glass or cubic zirconia. However, moissanite was introduced to the market later and also has high thermal conductivity, causing old testers to falsely read "Diamond."

Electrical Conductivity

Modern "Diamond & Moissanite" testers solve this by adding a second test: electrical conductivity. Very slightly electrically conductive, moissanite will trigger a different alert on these dual wands. Diamonds (except for rare blue Type IIb) are electrical insulators.

How to Use a Dual Tester

1
Turn the device on and let the probe tip heat up (wait for the 'Ready' light).
2
Remove the protective cap and wipe the stone clean of oils or dust.
3
Hold the metal plate on the back of the tester (this grounds the electrical circuit).
4
Press the needle tip firmly and perfectly flat against a facet of the stone. Avoid touching the metal setting to prevent a false "Metal" warning beep.

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About Diamond & Moissanite Tester Guide

Older diamond testers only measured thermal conductivity, which led to false positives when moissanite entered the market, as both materials conduct heat rapidly. This educational simulator explains and demonstrates the necessity of electrical conductivity testing. By simulating tests on Diamond, Moissanite, and Metal, users can understand the distinct 'signatures' read by dual-testers to ensure accurate gemstone identification.

Diamond & Moissanite Tester Guide Features

Interactive thermal and electrical test simulator
Educational breakdown of moissanite properties
Step-by-step guide on using physical dual-testers

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