All categories
Featured selections
Trade Assurance
Buyer Central
Help Center
Get the app
Become a supplier
(6066 products available)
Gem testers come in different types, each using unique methods and technologies to identify gemstones. These testers are essential for jewelers, gem dealers, or anyone in the gemstone industry, as they provide accurate identification and valuation of gems.
Thermal conductivity testers measure the ability of a gemstone to conduct heat. This tester uses probe points to conduct heat through the gemstone. The stone's ability to conduct heat will then be compared to that of real and imitation stone samples. This tester identifies stones like diamonds, moissanite, and various diamond substitutes. It is portable and battery-operated.
The refractive index tester will identify a stone by analyzing how light bends or refracts when passing through it. Refractive index liquid is placed on the gemstone, and on the gemstone, the viewer will see a scale. The gemstone's refractive index will be compared to the light that passes through gemstones. This tester is especially useful for identifying a wide range of colored and non-colored gems. It is also a portable device and is powered by batteries.
Gemstone testers will identify gemstones using heat or other methods. For example, some testers will use a probe to try to identify the gem by measuring its physical properties, such as thermal conductivity, electrical conductivity, or fluorescence. Some advanced testers can create detailed reports on a gem's authenticity and characteristics. Jewelers, dealers, and appraisers frequently use them for their work.
Ultraviolet testers detect fluorescence in gemstones when exposed to UV light. Jewelry appraisers will place a gemstone under a UV light source to observe any fluorescence. Fluorescence patterns are then compared to identify natural gems and synthetic stones. Strong fluorescence is typically used on diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and other colored stones. The device's portable design allows users to perform quick tests.
Each type of gem tester has unique features, sensitivity levels, and operational requirements. Understanding these specifications helps users choose the right tester for their needs. Regular maintenance ensures long-lasting performance and accurate results.
Sensitivity and Accuracy
The sensitivity of a gem tester is its capacity to detect minor differences between gemstones. A tester with high sensitivity can distinguish between natural gems and synthetic ones. This feature is critical for fine jewelry and high-value collections. Accuracy is also important, as testers must provide error-free results to avoid costly misidentifications.
Heat Conductivity Probe
Gem testers, such as a diamond tester, will have a probe that detects heat conductivity to identify gems. The probe is made from a very good conductor of heat, such as metal. This will enable it to quickly transfer heat to the test gem. A good-quality diamond probe will conduct heat quickly and accurately. This will provide precise readings. Users should check that there is no damage, such as breakage or excessive wear.
Refractive Index Liquid
An effective refractive index tester will contain high-quality, clear refractive index liquid. Liquid impurities like dust or air bubbles will cause inaccurate readings by disturbing light passing through the stone. The refractive index liquid is usually housed in a glass vial or chamber within the tester. Users should handle the tester carefully to prevent spills or breakages. Always cover the tester securely when not in use so it is not contaminated.
UV Lamp Bulb
The UV lamp tester will have a UV lamp bulb that emits UV rays to check fluorescence. Only certain stones will glow under UV rays, like diamonds and chalk opal. Steady illumination is what a good UV lamp will provide. It should not flicker or dim while testing stones. Regularly examine the bulb to make sure it is not cracked, broken, or damaged. Also, make sure there is not excessive dust or other debris in the lamp. This prevents obstructions, which may reduce its brightness.
The right gem tester for any business depends on its unique needs, budget, and the gemstones commonly found in the market. In addition, considering factors like tester type, gem variety, and usage frequency will help make the best choice.
Business owners need to consider which testers work best on which gemstones. For example, thermal conductivity testers are better suited for diamonds and moissanite. Refractive index testers are more flexible because they analyze a broader range of colored and colorless gems. For businesses handling diverse inventories, testers that assess multiple stones will be more efficient. These testers save users from having to buy multiple tools to test the gems.
It is advisable that buyers review additional features that may improve the tester's performance. Some testers integrate multiple functions, allowing identification of stones by heat conductivity, refractive index, and fluorescence. Multi-functional testers will save space and time, especially during high-volume operations. Advanced testers also come with digital displays, memory storage, and compared databases. In turn, these will provide quick and accurate results.
The model and the brand of the gem tester should offer reliability and performance, as customer satisfaction will depend on the accuracy of the results. Established brands are more likely to produce testers with consistent performance. Companies are also likely to back up their products with warranties and technical support. When purchasing, businesses will have to consider if their order qualifies for bulk discounts. They will also have to think about the availability of the tester in their local market.
How much money any business invests in a gem tester will depend on its size, current demand, and target market's needs. Affordable testers may provide the basic functionality to identify low- to mid-range gems. High-end models are normally used by large operations that handle expensive or rare stones. They may also be combined with other gem identification tools. It will also be good if any business compares the price of gem testers with their competitors. This will help them decide on a reasonable offer.
It is advisable that buyers who are new to gem identification learn from professionals. They should also perform regular maintenance to increase the tester's lifespan. This is because a well-maintained tester ensures precise results and builds customer trust in the business.
New users should seek advice from experienced jewelers or gemologists, especially when operating complex testers. Attending workshops or online courses will help a newcomer understand the nuances of identifying various gems. Joining professional associations also allows a user to gain access to resources or mentors. This knowledge will help to avoid misidentification and common pitfalls and optimize testing processes. This gem identification mistake infographic from GIA also illustrates common errors.
New gemstone dealers should consider using a gem tester kit for gemstone identification. These kits come with multiple tools, such as a stone hardness kit, loupe, and brushes. The tools will help to identify gemstones by analyzing their unique properties. For example, a hardness tester will check how easily a material scratches. A jeweler's loupe will study the stone's surface for marks or bubbles. Using different testers will ensure accurate results and help identify a variety of gems.
Users should set a schedule for tasks such as replacing worn-out parts, cleaning the device, and checking its calibration. This schedule will help the tester stay in top shape and produce reliable results. Businesses should save money simply by delaying repairs or replacement. Neglecting maintenance might also lead to more expensive or frequent maintenance in the future. Caring for equipment eliminates all avoidable testers' errors and misidentifications.
A tester should be stored in a dry, dust-free area whenever it is not being used. This condition will prolong the life of sensitive components such as probes, bulbs, and liquid chambers. Finders, screens, and testers are examples of tools that should be kept in special storage cases or bags when not in use. Proper storage will prevent damage from accidents, exposure to light or moisture, and long-term wear and tear. Businesses should invest in good storage for testers as testers will last longer with good storage.
A diamond tester identifies a diamond by measuring its heat conductivity. Since diamonds are excellent conductors of heat, they will transfer heat quickly from the probe to its surface. Other stones, like cubic zirconia or glass, will not transfer heat as quickly as this gemstone does.
Refractive index liquids will help compare the gemstone being tested to known stones. Jewelers place a gem in the liquid and look through it at the gem. The way light bends or refracts in the liquid will show the gem's characteristics. These stones have unique refractive properties that this liquid will help identify.
The UV light tester is effective in distinguishing between natural and synthetic gems. By checking fluorescence, this tester reveals differences in how gems react to UV light. Natural gemstones, after exposure, usually fluoresce in specific ways that will not be found in synthetic ones.
Regularly calibrating the tester will help ensure its accuracy. Cleaning any testers' components and replacing worn-out parts will ensure reliable performance. Keeping the tester in good condition avoids errors that could lead to misidentification.
