To determine if a diamond is real, you can perform some basic tests:
Fog Test: Breathe on the diamond like you would on a mirror. If the fog dissipates quickly, it's likely a real diamond. If it stays fogged for a few seconds, it may be fake.
Scratch Test: Diamonds are one of the hardest natural substances, so they should not be easily scratched. Try scratching the diamond with a piece of glass; if it scratches, it's likely not a real diamond.
Water Test: Drop the diamond into a glass of water. A real diamond will sink to the bottom due to its high density. If it floats or stays suspended near the top, it might be a fake.
Professional Assessment: For a definitive answer, take the diamond to a professional jeweler who can use specialized equipment to test its authenticity.