Have you ever wondered if those stunning lab diamonds or sapphires are “real”?
Or maybe you’ve asked yourself, “Why would anyone choose a lab gemstone when natural stones have been around forever?” “Are lab gemstones as good as natural gemstones?“
These are all valid concerns. Whether you’re shopping for an engagement ring, or necklace or just curious, the “lab gemstones vs. natural gemstones” debate is worth knowing.
Let’s take a closer look at the two types to help you decide what’s best for you.
Table Of Contents:
- What Are Lab Gemstones?
- What Are Natural Gemstones?
- Lab Gemstones vs. Natural Gemstones: What’s the Difference?
- Are Lab and Natural Gemstones Easy to Tell?
- Are Lab Gemstones as Durable as Natural Gemstones?
- Why Do People Choose Lab Gemstones Over Natural Ones?
- Which Is Better: Lab or Natural Gemstones?
- Related FAQs
What Are Lab Gemstones?
Lab gemstones, also known as “lab-grown gemstones”, “lab-created gemstones”, “synthetic gemstones”, or “man-made gemstones”. They are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural gemstones and are produced in controlled environments (i.e., laboratories) using advanced technology. Sounds amazing? It’s all about the power of science.
How Are Lab Gemstones Made?
There are two main methods for producing lab gemstones:
- High-Pressure High-Temperature Method (HPHT):
This is the mainstream method for creating lab gemstones. The principle is: Placing a gemstone seed1 and a catalyst in an environment that mimics the high temperature and high pressure under which natural gemstones form. Under these conditions, the seed and catalyst react, melt, and crystallize, ultimately forming the desired solid gemstone crystal. - Chemical Vapor Deposition Method (CVD):
This is another primary method for producing ultra-pure gemstones. The principle is: Placing a substrate2 in a controlled vacuum or low-pressure environment and introducing the gaseous chemical composition of the gemstone to be created. Heating or excitation causes the gas to decompose into active substances that react with the substrate, depositing layer by layer to form the desired solid gemstone crystal. The substrate role provides the crystal growth direction and template that determines the structure and quality of the final crystal.
Are Lab Gemstones “Fake”?
Let’s clarify. Lab gemstones are not “fake” or “imitations”. Here’s why:
- They are made from the same materials as natural gemstones.
- Their appearance and performance are identical to those of natural gemstones.
- They are certified according to the same gemological standards.
What is fake? “Counterfeit”, “imitation”, or “simulated” gemstones are fake. (e.g., cubic zirconia or glass faked as diamonds.) They only imitate the appearance of natural gemstones, but their chemical composition, physical, optical characteristics are different (worse) than those of lab and natural gemstones.
What Are Natural Gemstones?
Natural gemstones are Earth’s wonders, formed deep underground over millions of years under high temperature and pressure. Some even come from outer space. Yes, you read that right! Certain mineral gemstones arrive on Earth via meteorites. For instance, moissanite is found in meteorite craters, so moissanite jewelry on the market is almost always lab moissanite. Explore our moissanite rings & moissanite necklaces.
Natural gemstones are formed without human intervention. Only after it is mined and obtained is it cut and polished to give it a more refined look to sell. Once mined, they are cut and polished to enhance their appearance for sale. Some natural gemstones undergo treatments to enhance their look. For example:
- Most natural emeralds are “oiled” to fill cracks formed during their growth.
- Many colored gemstones are heat-treated to enhance their color.
Lab Gemstones vs. Natural Gemstones: What’s the Difference?
Here’s the truth: lab gemstones and natural gemstones are chemically, physically, and optically identical. However, their differing formation environments result in some distinctions, as outlined in the table below:
| Feature | Lab Gemstones | Natural Gemstones |
|---|---|---|
| Price | More affordable (typically 50% cheaper than natural gems) | Higher cost (due to mining expenses) |
| Cost | Lower (lab production reduces labor and financial costs) | Higher (mining requires significant labor and financial investment) |
| Environmental Impact | Eco-friendly (no mining required) | Mining can harm the Earth’s environment |
| Value | Lower, typically does not appreciate | Higher, can appreciate and has better resale value |
| Ethics | Guaranteed conflict-free (lab production avoids ethical issues) | Depends on sourcing practices |
| Clarity | Flawless or nearly flawless (controlled lab conditions) | Typically contains more inclusions |
| Color | Any color can be produced | Limited color options |
| History | Lacks the “millions of years” story | Rich history with symbolic meanings |
Are Lab and Natural Gemstones Easy to Tell?
Most people cannot tell the difference with the naked eye! Even experts require specialized equipment to detect subtle variations, such as inclusions (natural gemstones often have flaws, while lab gemstones are typically flawless).
To ensure you get what you want, consult a jeweler for detailed information before buying. For extra assurance, request a certification from a professional gemological institution, which will specify whether the gemstone is natural or lab-created.
Is it good or bad that they are hard to tell? The answer depends on the person. For instance:
- If you don’t want others to know your gemstone is lab-created, it’s good. this could be a positive.
- If you’re aiming to buy a natural gemstone without access to professional testing, it might be a drawback.
Are Lab Gemstones as Durable as Natural Gemstones?
Absolutely. Lab gemstones are made from the same materials as natural ones, which means they are equally hard, scratch-resistant, and durable. For example:
- Lab diamonds have a Mohs hardness of 10, the same as natural diamonds.
- Lab sapphires and rubies? The hardness is the same as natural ones.
You don’t need to worry about the durability of lab gemstones.
Why Do People Choose Lab Gemstones Over Natural Ones?
Good question. The answer? It depends on your priorities. Here are four reasons why lab gemstones are increasingly popular:
- Price: Lab gemstones are usually around 50% cheaper than natural gemstones. Same sparkle, size, lower price; or the same budget for a bigger, better gemstone!
- Ethics: Lab gemstones involve no mining, no questionable supply chain, and no need to worry about issues such as conflict gems or unsafe working conditions.
- Clarity and Quality: Labs can produce virtually flawless gemstones without the inclusions or imperfections common in natural ones.
- Environmental Impact: No mining means less environmental damage, which is a good thing for the planet’s environment.
Why Choose Natural Gemstones, Then?
Here are some reasons:
- Rarity: Each natural gemstone takes millions of years to form and is truly unique.
- Value: High-quality natural gemstones appreciated over time.
- History and Tradition: Wearing natural gemstones is a more traditional choice, and they often carry unique symbolic meanings.
Which Is Better: Lab or Natural Gemstones?
No “better” lab or natural gemstone, no “wrong or right” choice. It depends on you, your budget and your values.
- If you prioritize environmental sustainability, ethics, and affordability, lab-created gemstones are a great choice.
- If you value tradition, uniqueness, and investment potential, natural gemstones may be the way to go.
Whether you choose a lab gemstone or nature, both are beautiful options that can be cherished forever. Choose your lab or natural gemstone ring, pendant, earrings, etc. at MollyJewelryUS, where all the natural gemstones we sell are ethically sourced.
Related FAQs
Because you’re not paying for:
1. Various costs were incurred during the lengthy mining process.
2. Premium due to scarcity, history, and symbolism.
3. The middleman’s spread in the supply chain.
No. Imitation or simulated gemstones mimic the look of natural gemstones but lack their chemical, physical, and optical properties. Lab gemstones, however, are identical to natural ones.
Yes, but they usually do not have the same resale value as natural gemstones. Rather than viewing them as a financial investment, they should be considered a cosmetic investment.
No. Even professionals need specialized equipment to distinguish them.
Although beautiful, they do not have the same resale value as natural gemstones.
Not necessarily. They don’t depreciate significantly because they’re priced lower to begin with.
Labs can produce virtually all known gemstones.
Absolutely! At MollyJewelryUS, you can select size, color, and clarity to match your dream design. Contact Us!
Not entirely. Some natural gemstones are ethically sourced. If this is a concern for you, look for certifications such as “Fair Trade” or “Conflict Free”.
Definitely. They are crafted to be flawless, making them exceptionally brilliant.
Footnote
- Gemstone seed: Contains the chemical composition of the gemstone being produced. ↩︎
- Substrate: A material that is identical to or has a matching crystal lattice to the gemstone to be created. For example, CVD-created lab diamond by CVD requires a slice of natural or synthetic diamond as the crystal seed substrate, while sapphire production uses a sapphire slice. ↩︎