When testing for imitation or fake diamonds, the tilt test involves tilting the diamond against a dark background. If you can see a large, obvious dark area, it is probably an imitation.

This test is a variation of the diamond see-through test, but is easier to do with diamonds mounted in rings.

This test works best on round diamonds. Poorly cut fancy-shape diamonds may show a dark fan-shaped area also.

Don't care if it's fake? Modern-day fake diamonds such as cubic zirconia (CZ) or moissanite are hard to tell from the real thing and can offer good value. Check out the links below if you're interested in buying fake diamonds: