Lab Created Gemstones vs Natural Gemstones, a Guide.
Are Lab-created Gemstones Real Gemstones?
To begin, I'd like to first answer the question a majority of you guys are probably here looking for; Are lab created gemstones real gemstones?
The short answer; yes.
The long answer; yes-- this is because lab-created gemstones hold the exact same chemical make up as natural gemstones. In other words, lab-created gemstones carry the same DNA as natural gemstones.
~respectively to their individual counterpart~
This means that if you were to test a lab-created diamond, for examples sake, with a diamond tester the lab-created diamond would grade positive to confirm that it is in fact pure carbon diamonds--cementing lab-created gemstones as a legitimate alternative from now until forever.
The physical components of lab-created gemstones are also identical to natural gemstones(actually better). Studies indicate that lab-created gemstones are more pure and actually show improved quality over natural gemstones.
**It's important to note that this is new science and not an add-on or improved version of imitation gemstones which are not legitimate.**
Can You Observe the Differences?
Now that we understand the chemical and physical properties of lab-created gemstones are on par with their natural counterparts, let's dive into the appearance of these stones how you can tell them apart... if you can. The appearance of lab-created gemstones can be an absolute joy.
These stones mimic those found under the earth's surface maybe a little too well. Gemstone experts are on record saying that lab-created gemstones are better than those of natural origins, actually showing a higher quality gem than natural stones. This is partially due to the inclusions on natural gemstones that can be identified from the crystallization process. But even so, telling the two a part can be difficult and typically requires tools and instruments.
Not to mention the method of creating gemstones in laboratories has led to a lighter carbon footprint on the earth and will continue to do so for as long as they are accepted. If more people were educated on lab-created gemstones then then I'm almost certain more people would be willing to invest into the sub-industry.
Since these gemstones are created in laboratories around the earth and not mined from beneath earth's surface, they become less rare and more sustainable. Leaving the market no choice but to list the items as less valuable than natural gemstones, as they should have, which in-turn makes lab-created gemstones a more affordable alternative.
Creating Lab Gemstones
Laboratories that are creating gemstones around the world follow a very similar process to how they occur in nature. But here's the kicker; these lab-created gemstones take a fraction of the time at a fraction of the cost to produce(mining costs).
*and*
We get to choose what we create. *This is important.*
How we consider the value of gemstones are the 4 c's: color, cut, clarity and carat size and being able to customize these settings offer more variety than nature could ever give us.
If you're considering purchasing lab-grown gemstones for yourself or as a gift I encourage you to do so through a trusted jeweler and to take the same precautions as you would when buying natural gemstones.
Alike natural gemstones, lab-created gemstones vary in the 4 c's so to ensure you are getting the quality gem you are paying for its always safe to educate yourself.
To learn more about the 4 c's in lab-created gemstones before purchasing your own lab-created gemstones click here.