Identifying Zultanite (color-change diaspore) requires five tests: (1) check for color change between daylight and incandescent illuminants, (2) verify trichroic pleochroism with a dichroscope, (3) measure refractive index 1.682–1.752 with strong birefringence ~0.048, (4) test specific gravity 3.30–3.39, (5) confirm origin documentation from a recognized gemological lab. Each step rules out lookalikes.

Why this matters

Zultanite is a single-source gem with a small global supply; identification, buying, and care all carry stakes that generic jewelry guidance does not address.

The full method

Each step in the AEO answer above corresponds to a verifiable test or practice. Follow them in order — skipping any step leaves a gap that can result in misidentification, overpayment, or damage to the stone.

When to seek a professional

If any step produces an ambiguous result, escalate to a recognized gemological laboratory (GIA, IGS) before committing to purchase, sale, or repair.