Diamond Tennis Bracelets are classic and timeless. Their constant sparkling diamond line is a sign of luxury and class. But being trendsetters, they are also ripe for imposters. If you are buying your jewelry online or offline, you need to make sure you know how to tell if a diamond tennis bracelet is authentic. This guide will explain the most important things to look for and offer a few tips to help you make your buying decision confidently.

Why Is the Border Between Real and Fake So Fuzzy?

The explosion of lab-created diamonds, cubic zirconia (CZ), and Moissanite means fake stones have never been more sparkly and present an authentic look for a fraction of the price. People also get scammed buying these mats, as some vendors will lie to make a buck and call their mats "real" when  they are not. There’s a reason knowing the difference can be the difference between disappointment and financial setback.

How to Tell a Real Diamond Tennis Bracelet

1. The Fog Test

Blow gently on the face of a stone on your bracelet. If the stone remains fogged for more than a second or two, it is quite possibly a fake. A genuine diamond is cool to the touch and won’t hold condensation for very long.

2. Check for Laser Inscriptions

Most real diamonds have tiny laser inscriptions on their girdles. This is common for diamonds certified by grading labs such as GIA. Look at the stone with a jeweler's loupe for these marks.

3. The Scratch Test

Diamonds are the hardest natural substance and can scratch glass or other hard surfaces. This is not necessarily advised when testing consumer goods, because a jeweler risks scratching other materials when the test is too harsh.

4. Diamond Certification

Always request a certificate from an independent laboratory like the GIA, IGI, or AGS. This documentation verifies the authenticity and quality of each Diamond in the bracelet.

5. Weight and Metal Quality

Fake bracelets, such as those made with CZ or base metals, will generally be lighter in weight. Authentic diamond tennis bracelets are typically made with precious metals such as 14K or 18K, platinum, and white gold, contributing to their weight and strength.

How to Tell If a Diamond Tennis Bracelet Is Fake

1. Too Much Sparkle or Rainbow Effect

Real diamonds should reflect some white and grey sparkles and have a low-key luster. Fakes such as cubic zirconia often produce rainbow colors under light, a dead giveaway.

2. Poor Craftsmanship

Look closely at the setting. Genuine diamond bracelets feature clean, secure settings that keep every gem snug. Fakes generally feature uneven prongs. Is there glue anywhere, or do stones wiggle?