Jewelry Buying Guide: How to Choose a Good Imitation Diamond?

Most people, especially women, love diamonds. Because the price of diamonds vary, many diamond pieces are affordable. On the other hand, if you prefer a huge rock as an engagement or anniversary gift, be prepared to spend a few thousand dollars. Although many people with expensive taste often settle on less expensive diamond pieces, there are ways to buy a quality piece of jewelry, without paying the high diamond prices.

Imitation or fake diamonds are popular jewelry pieces. Moreover, these pieces are not only for persons with limited means. In fact, many rich or wealthy individuals are caught wearing imitation diamonds. This way, they can enjoy a night out without worrying that someone will rob them for their precious jewels. Of course, the jewelry pieces worn by these individuals are not cheap or inexpensively priced fake diamonds found in mall retail stores. Rather, quality imitation diamonds are sold by reputable jewelers. Even though the cost of a quality imitation can be a few hundred dollars, it's a cost-effective alternative to buying real jewelry pieces priced several thousands of dollars. Before buying an imitation diamond, consider the following tips for selecting a quality imposter.

• The two best imitation diamonds available are cubic zirconia and moissanite. If hoping to buy an imitation that closely resembles a real diamond, choose a moissanite. In fact, these stones are so identical to real diamonds that many experienced jewelers have a difficult time distinguishing them as fake.

• If choosing between a cubic zirconia and moissanite, compare the color, clarity, and cut with a real diamond. The key is to select a stone that most closely bears a resemblance to a real diamond's stone. Intimately examine the real stone, and notice how light reflects and bounces off the diamond. Next, examine the real diamond's clarity, or clearness. After careful comparison, pick the imitation stone that can pass for a real diamond.

• In order for an imitation diamond to be convincing, you must select a quality metal. Unfortunately, many people place much emphasis on buying a quality imitation, and then choose a jewelry piece with substandard metal. If the gold or silver surrounding the imitation begins to chip, or simply looks cheap, the jewelry piece will not pass for a real diamond.

• Some imitation diamonds are very believable. However, if the jewelry piece is not properly cared for, the stone's clarity and shine will diminish. When this happens, the imitation will no longer look like a real diamond. When buying an imitation diamond, inquire about cleaning and storing tips. Because quality imitations are durable, they do not dull quickly. Nonetheless, weekly cleanings and safe storage is essential.