Lab-grown diamonds are getting super popular, but that also means more fakes are out there. It’s tricky to tell the difference between a real diamond, a cubic zirconia, and a CVD/HPHT lab-grown diamond without special tools. Jewelers and pawnshops need to know for sure, and that’s where a CVD diamond tester comes in handy. You don’t want to accidentally buy or sell something that isn’t what it seems.
These testers use advanced technology to analyze a stone’s properties and determine if it’s a natural diamond, a lab-grown diamond (CVD/HPHT), or a simulant. This guide looks at some of the best CVD diamond testers you can buy right now.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- CVD Diamond Testers: Specialized devices for identifying lab-grown diamonds (CVD/HPHT) and differentiating them from natural diamonds and simulants.
- Key Features: Look for features like instant readings, LED indicators, UV light testing, and the ability to distinguish between Type IIa diamonds.
- Accuracy: Accuracy is crucial. Testers should reliably identify CVD/HPHT diamonds without false positives or negatives.
- Ease of Use: User-friendly design is important, especially for those new to diamond testing.
- Portability: Compact and portable testers are convenient for on-the-go use.
Top 5 Best CVD Diamond Tester Reviews
1. Gemlogis BLE Diamond & Moissanite Tester with Bluetooth
The Gemlogis BLE is a popular choice because it can test for both diamonds and moissanite. It uses Bluetooth to connect to your smartphone, giving you more detailed results and data logging. It’s a step up from basic testers and offers a bit more insight.
Pros:
- ✅ Bluetooth connectivity for data logging and detailed analysis
- ✅ Tests for both diamonds and moissanite
- ✅ Clear LED display
Cons:
- ❌ Higher price point compared to basic testers
- ❌ Bluetooth feature might be unnecessary for some users
- ❌ Requires smartphone for full functionality
Verdict: This is a good option if you want more data and don’t mind using your smartphone for analysis. It’s suitable for jewelers or serious collectors.
2. SmartPro Reader I Diamond & Moissanite Tester
The SmartPro Reader I is designed for ease of use, giving you a clear “Diamond” or “Moissanite” reading. It’s quick and reliable, which is great when you’re checking a lot of stones. It also has a metal alert to prevent false readings.
Pros:
- ✅ Easy-to-read display with clear results
- ✅ Quick testing process
- ✅ Metal alert feature
Cons:
- ❌ Doesn’t differentiate between natural and lab-grown diamonds
- ❌ Limited features compared to more advanced testers
- ❌ Can be fooled by certain diamond coatings
Verdict: A solid choice for quickly identifying diamonds and moissanite, but not ideal if you need to identify CVD/HPHT diamonds.
3. Yehuda Instruments Sherlock Holmes 3.0
The Sherlock Holmes 3.0 is one of the most advanced testers on the market. It uses UV light and other sophisticated methods to identify CVD/HPHT diamonds and distinguish them from natural diamonds. It even identifies Type IIa diamonds. I remember the first time I saw one of these used. It felt like something out of a science fiction movie!
Pros:
- ✅ Highly accurate in identifying CVD/HPHT diamonds
- ✅ Identifies Type IIa diamonds
- ✅ Advanced UV light testing
Cons:
- ❌ Significantly more expensive than other testers
- ❌ Steeper learning curve
- ❌ May require regular calibration
Verdict: If you need the highest level of accuracy and can afford it, the Sherlock Holmes 3.0 is the way to go. It’s ideal for professional jewelers and gemologists.
4. Presidium Diamond Mate A
The Presidium Diamond Mate A is a compact and user-friendly tester. It’s designed for portability, making it easy to carry around. It gives you a clear reading with an LED light indicator and is pretty straightforward to use.
Pros:
- ✅ Compact and portable design
- ✅ Easy to use with LED indicator
- ✅ Affordable price point
Cons:
- ❌ Doesn’t differentiate between natural and lab-grown diamonds
- ❌ Less accurate than high-end testers
- ❌ Can be affected by ambient temperature
Verdict: A good budget-friendly option for basic diamond testing, but not suitable for identifying CVD/HPHT diamonds.
5. GemOro UltraTester 3
The GemOro UltraTester 3 is another good all-around tester that identifies diamonds, moissanite, and cubic zirconia. It has a clear LCD display and is easy to use. It’s a reliable option for everyday testing needs. I’ve seen it used in a few pawn shops.
Pros:
- ✅ Tests for diamonds, moissanite, and cubic zirconia
- ✅ Clear LCD display
- ✅ Durable construction
Cons:
- ❌ Doesn’t differentiate between natural and lab-grown diamonds
- ❌ Can be inconsistent with very small stones
- ❌ Battery life could be better
Verdict: A reliable tester for general use, but not designed for identifying CVD/HPHT diamonds. It’s best for distinguishing between different types of gemstones.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right CVD diamond tester depends on your needs and budget. Here are a few things to consider:
- Accuracy: This is the most important factor. Make sure the tester is known for its accuracy in identifying CVD/HPHT diamonds. Read reviews and check independent tests if possible.
- Features: Do you need to identify Type IIa diamonds? Do you want Bluetooth connectivity? Consider which features are essential for your work.
- Ease of Use: A complicated tester can be frustrating to use. Look for a model with a clear display and intuitive controls.
- Portability: If you need to test diamonds on the go, choose a compact and lightweight tester.
- Budget: CVD diamond testers range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. Set a budget and find a tester that meets your needs without breaking the bank.
- Warranty and Support: Check the warranty and make sure the manufacturer offers good customer support.
FAQs
What is a CVD diamond?
CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) diamonds are lab-grown diamonds created using a specific process. They have the same chemical and physical properties as natural diamonds but are created in a lab environment.
Why do I need a CVD diamond tester?
A CVD diamond tester helps you distinguish between natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds, and diamond simulants (like cubic zirconia). This is crucial for accurate appraisal, buying, and selling.
Can a regular diamond tester identify CVD diamonds?
No, most standard diamond testers only identify whether a stone is a diamond or a simulant. They cannot differentiate between natural and lab-grown diamonds.
How accurate are CVD diamond testers?
The accuracy varies depending on the model. High-end testers like the Yehuda Sherlock Holmes 3.0 are very accurate, while cheaper models may be less reliable.
Are CVD diamonds real diamonds?
Yes, CVD diamonds are real diamonds in terms of their chemical composition and physical properties. The only difference is their origin: one is mined from the earth, and the other is created in a lab.
Conclusion
Choosing the best CVD diamond tester depends on your specific needs. If you’re a professional jeweler dealing with high-value stones, investing in an advanced tester like the Yehuda Sherlock Holmes 3.0 is a smart move. But if you just need a basic tester for occasional use, a more affordable option like the Presidium Diamond Mate A might be sufficient. Think about what you’ll be testing and how often, and then choose the tester that fits your budget and requirements.
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