Can Raman Spectroscopy Confirm the Presence of Diamonds?

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In summary, the conversation discusses various methods for confirming that a material is diamond, aside from its crystal structure. These methods include the copper cooling test, acid test, hardness test, hammer test, index of refraction, diamond tester, and specific gravity. Raman spectroscopy is also mentioned as a common method for characterizing diamond surface films.
  • #1
darkelf
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Hello,

I would like to know how one can confirm that a material is diamond apart from confirming its crystal structure. I tried the copper cooling test and it passed, are they any other tests to confirm? What acid test would be best to confirm?

Thank you
 
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  • #2
diamonds burn in Oxygen.
 
  • #3
Spectroscopy.
 
  • #4
Hardness (scratch test)
 
  • #5
I prefer the hammer test. Don't use an new anvil were you do precision work. Smashing a diamond can ruin the surface.


The index of refraction of diamond is about 2.4. Cubic zirconia is about 2.2.
 
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  • #6
Just Google on Diamond Tester. They are common and relatively inexpensive.
 
  • #7
Specific gravity is another good test.
 
  • #8
These are all rather 'macroscopic' test methods, and based on some of the questions / comments darkelf has posted in the past (mostly regarding microprocessing / surface coatings), I would hazard that this isn't the case. Having said that, I have no idea either, aside from what the other posters have mentioned (hardness testing, spectroscopy, conductivity--though this might be difficult to distinguish from graphite or other carbon allotropes).
 
  • #9
Raman spectroscopy is used all the time for diamond surface films.
It's the usual way to characterize CVD diamonds.
 

1. How do you test for diamonds using a diamond tester?

A diamond tester is a handheld device that measures the thermal conductivity of a stone. Diamonds have high thermal conductivity, so if the tester indicates that the stone has high thermal conductivity, it is likely a diamond.

2. Can you test for diamonds using a magnet?

No, diamonds are not magnetic, so using a magnet to test for diamonds will not work. However, this method may be effective for identifying other types of gemstones that are magnetic.

3. What is the process for testing a diamond for authenticity in a laboratory setting?

In a laboratory setting, a diamond is typically tested using spectroscopy techniques, such as Raman spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy, and UV-visible spectroscopy. These techniques measure the light absorption and emission patterns of a diamond, which can be compared to known patterns of authentic diamonds.

4. Can a diamond be identified using a UV light?

Yes, diamonds have a unique fluorescence under UV light. Most diamonds will fluoresce blue, but some may fluoresce yellow, green, or even red. This can be a helpful indication of a diamond's authenticity, but it should not be the only method used for testing.

5. How can you test for diamonds without specialized equipment?

One method for testing diamonds without specialized equipment is the "fog test." Breathe on the diamond like you would fog up a mirror. If the fog dissipates quickly, it is likely a real diamond, as diamonds have high thermal conductivity. If the fog stays on the stone for a few seconds, it is likely a fake. However, this test is not foolproof and should not be relied upon as the only method for testing diamonds.

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