A mood ring is a special type of jewelry that changes colors based on the temperature of the skin underneath it. This allows the ring to provide an indication of the wearer’s mood or emotional state. Mood rings were a popular fad in the 1970s and have seen periodic resurgences in popularity since then. Determining whether a ring is an authentic mood ring versus just a regular ring can be tricky. Here are some tips on how to tell if a ring is a real mood ring.
Look for a thermochromic liquid crystal
The key component that enables a mood ring to change colors is a thermochromic liquid crystal inside the stone or band. This liquid crystal is calibrated to change colors at different temperatures. When worn on a finger, the crystal reacts to the subtle changes in body temperature caused by variations in mood, health, stress level, etc.
To check if a ring contains this temperature-sensitive liquid crystal, look closely at the stone under good lighting. A real mood ring will contain a clear liquid-filled cavity under the stone’s surface. Tilt the ring to see if the liquid appears to move and flow freely within the stone. The presence of this moving liquid is a strong indicator that the ring contains a thermochromic liquid crystal.
Observe the ring’s color changes
The most definitive way to ascertain whether a ring is a real mood ring is to observe its color changes when worn. Place the ring on your finger and observe the stone’s color closely under normal indoor light. After a minute or two, the stone should begin noticeably changing color if it is a mood ring.
The most common mood ring color sequence is:
| Black | Lowest temperature, relaxed |
| Blue | Low temperature, normal |
| Green | Medium temperature, normal |
| Yellow | Warm temperature, excited |
| Brown | High temperature, stressed |
However, colors may vary across different mood ring models. The key is to observe an obvious change in color within a short time when worn. If you see little to no color change after a few minutes, it is likely not a functional mood ring.
Consider weight and material composition
Most authentic mood rings will contain heavier stones made of quartz, glass, or acrylic due to the thermochromic liquid crystal encased within. The ring band itself is also commonly made of heavier metals like sterling silver or brass.
Fake or non-functional mood rings tend to have very lightweight plastic stones and bands. If you notice the ring is unusually lightweight for its size, with a plastic stone and band, these are clues it may not be a real mood ring.
Buy from a reputable retailer
When shopping for a mood ring, your best bet is to purchase from a retailer you trust to sell authentic jewelry. Beware of extremely cheap mood rings found at discount or novelty shops, as these are more likely to be fakes. High quality mood rings are available from jewelry stores and specialty retailers for around $20-$100. The higher price point helps ensure you are getting a ring with real thermochromic technology.
Consider multiple indicators
It’s important to note that no single factor can definitively indicate whether a ring is a genuine mood ring. Fakes exist that mimic some of the features described above. The best approach is to combine several clues – such as the presence of a liquid crystal, observable color change, weight and materials, and trusted retailer – to judge the likelihood that a ring is an authentic mood ring. If in doubt, purchasing from a reputable jewelry provider is your safest option.
Conclusion
Mood rings remain a popular curiosity and jewelry item since their fad decades ago. They provide a fun way to display your moods and emotions throughout the day through the ring’s shifting colors. With so many novelty versions on the market, it can be tricky figuring out if a ring is a real mood ring. Look for key signs like a liquid crystal stone, color change when worn, heavy weight, and purchase from known jewelry retailers. With the right approach, you can find a quality mood ring you can enjoy and show off for years to come.
