How to Identify Real Hessonite Gemstones in 5 Easy Steps

Hessonite, also commonly known as ‘Gomed’ in India, is a well-known gemstone known for its rich honey-yellow and reddish-brown colour. A hessonite is a variety of grossular garnet that has been a prized possession for centuries. The reason why hessonite is a prized possession is because of its astrological benefits and aesthetic appeal.

However, with the ever-increasing demand for the gemstone in the market, it is hard to identify the real one from the fake ones. Also, it is important to know what you are buying for yourself and not getting scammed. This is why we have come up with a comprehensive guide that would help you identify a real hessonite.

Characteristics of Real Hessonite

Before getting into other characteristics of a real hessonite, let’s understand the physical characteristics of the gemstone:

• The chemical composition of a hessonite is called calcium aluminium silicate.
• A hessonite scale at 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale in terms of its hardness for the stone.
• The colour of this gemstone is between a cinnamon brown, honey yellow, orange brown, and reddish brown. These are the shade ranges in which the stone can be found.
• When talking about the stone’s lustre, it is vitreous to greasy.
• Lastly, a hessonite is transparent to translucent in terms of its appearance with the different colour range as well.

These are some of the characteristics of the stone that indicate whether the stone is a hessonite or not.

Identification of a Real Hessonite

Now that we are aware of the physical characteristics of the stone for identifying it, let’s also have a look at the basic characteristics that will help you identify a real hessonite.

Visual Inspection

The first and foremost test is the visual test, which includes checking the colour of the stone, the clarity and inclusions that the stone has, and what the surface texture of the stone is. Let’s understand all these aspects in more detail.

Colour

A real hessonite will have a warm and deep hue to it; this makes it appear richer and more vibrant. To identify a real hessonite, you should look out for equal distribution of the colour, although there might be some inclusions in it due to it being a natural stone. In any case, if the colour of the stone appears too bright and uniform, it can easily be identified as a synthetic one.

Clarity and Inclusion

Like every other natural gemstone, even a hessonite has visible inclusions because of its natural formation. These inclusions can be seen as needle-like structures, liquid inclusions, and in irregular patterns. As always, if the stone is completely flawless without any inclusions, then it is synthetic or made of glass.

Surface Texture

With the increasing demand for the stone in the market, there have been cases of imitation as well. To identify the difference between both of them, look at the stone’s surface closely; if it has a smooth and polished texture, then the stone is real. Whereas if the texture of the stone appears to be grainy, overly shiny, or has bubbles, then it could be an imitation.

Physical Test

Physically understating the characteristics of a hessonite can be seen under three categories: those are the hardness of the stone, density, and the refractive index. Let’s have a closer look at all of these.

Hardness

When a real hessonite is measured on a Mohs scale, the hardness is between a 6.5 and 7. This much hardness in a stone makes it resistant to scratches from softer materials such as copper or a steel blade. Although it is advised to be cautious and not damage the stone while testing itself.

Density

To check the density of a hessonite, a gemmologist can easily do it. The specific gravity of hessonite is in between the range of 3.65 to 3.75. A gemologist will easily be able to distinguish a real hessonite from the lighter imitations like the glass.

Refractive index

The refractive index of hessonite ranges from 1.73 to 1.75. This feature can be confirmed by a professional refractometer test. Often, synthetic stones are outside of this spectrum, which makes the identification of a real hessonite simple and effective.

Professional Identification Tools

Last is the identification of a real hessonite through the means of professional tools. These professional tools include gemological testing, checking through magnification, and thermal conductivity tests. All these tests are as follows:

Gemological testing

To identify gemstones, gemologists employ sophisticated instruments such as spectrometers, microscopes, and polariscopes. Authenticity is guaranteed by a professional certification from a respectable gemological organisation.

Magnification

You can examine the stone for distinctive inclusions, including "swirling" patterns brought on by natural formation, using a jeweller's loupe or a microscope. Synthetic stones frequently lack these patterns.

Thermal conductivity test

The heat conductivity of real Hessonite is low. It should feel cooler to the touch than a glass or resin-based artificial stone. You can conduct this test by pressing the stone up against your skin.

Origin and Certification of Real Hessonite

While looking to buy hessonite online, it is important for all the individuals to look for the origin and the certification of the stone they are getting. To obtain the origin and certification of real hessonite, you should look for these things.

1. Verification of Source:

The main sources of hessonite are Brazil, Tanzania, India, and Sri Lanka. Being aware of the stone's provenance might boost confidence.

1. Authenticity Certificate:

Buy exclusively from trustworthy vendors that offer an authenticity certificate from a recognized gemological laboratory such as the International Gemological Institute (IGI), the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), or a comparable local lab.

Beware of Common Imitations

Hessonite is frequently imitated by a number of materials, including:

Conclusion

It takes a combination of professional verification, physical testing, and visual inspection to identify a genuine Hessonite. You may avoid being duped by imitations and make an informed purchase by following these suggestions. For peace of mind, always buy from reputable jewellers and look for certifications. Purchasing a genuine Hessonite retains its astrological and spiritual benefits in addition to its monetary value.

When you think of buying hessonite stone online, make sure you are working with a reliable platform such as GemsRoot that has lab-certified gemstones, worldwide shipping, and transparent and unmatched prices. You’ll get all the varieties at a reasonable price with proper guidance and quality assurance. You can contact us at +91 114-314-8316. We also offer consultation for a better understanding of what to wear and how to purchase the stone. Contact us to know more!