Telling paste from real stones

Jewelry Discussion
1

Hi all, I have a batch of semi precious cut stones (I think). How
can I tell if they are paste or real stones?

Richard Whitehouse
Jeweller and silversmith

2

Hi Richard,

I have a batch of semi precious cut stones (I think). How can I
tell if they are paste or real stones?

Probably the most reliable way is to take them to a Gemologist.
There they can be subjected to a number of nondestructive tests that
should identify the stone as real or paste. If necessary, they may
also be able to identify whether it’s natural or synthetic.

Dave

3

There are any number of gemologists on Orchid who would be able to do
that for a fee.

I also can recommend Charles Carmona at Guild labs in L.A.
213-624-0137.

Unfortunately you will OFTEN find that a ‘mixed bag’ of ‘semiprecious
stones,’ has MUCH junk, synthetics, and glass. Frequently not worth
the expense of testing. HOWEVER, all you need is one diamond or a
fine genuine Alexandrite, and you’re in hog heaven.

David Barzilay
Lord of the Rings
607 S Hill St Ste 850
Los Angeles, CA 90014-1718
213-488-9157