In an effort to meticulously examine the authenticity of a diamond simulant gemstone offered by Diamond Nexus Laboratories (DNL), we placed an order for a specimen on 27 March 2012. DNL’s claim was intriguing: they asserted that their gemstone stood apart from ordinary and inexpensive cubic zirconia, primarily due to the incorporation of a corundum (aluminum oxide or sapphire) coating. This coating purportedly endowed the gemstone with superior scratch resistance and durability. Additionally, DNL contended that their gemstone was polycrystalline, adding another layer of uniqueness to their product.

This wasn’t the first time we had engaged with DNL’s claims. Back in 2007, we had acquired one of their gemstones to ascertain whether it differed from yttrium-stabilized cubic zirconia, as advertised on their website at the time. However, our examination revealed that the 2007 gemstone was virtually indistinguishable from the well-known Signity yttrium-stabilized cubic zirconia, raising questions about the authenticity of DNL’s offerings.

Fast forward to March 2012, when DNL proudly showcased laboratory reports on their website, detailing gemstones purportedly enhanced with a corundum surface coating. Intrigued, we acquired one of these gemstones for thorough analysis. Much to our disappointment, our investigation revealed that the gemstone received in March 2012 was, in fact, just yttrium-stabilized cubic zirconia, lacking the promised corundum surface coating. Furthermore, contrary to their claim of being polycrystalline, the gemstone was a single crystal, a far cry from the complexity one would expect in a genuine diamond simulant.

For a comprehensive understanding of our findings, we have made the detailed report on the gemstone coating available for examination. Due to its length, the report had to be divided into two parts: Report Part 1 and Report Part 2. We encourage interested parties to delve into these documents, as they shed light on our rigorous examination process and the discrepancies uncovered in DNL’s claims.

Please contact us to discuss your materials verification needs. We will be more than happy to discuss your concerns and how we can assist you.