In recent years, the jewelry industry has made a noticeable shift towards laboratory-produced gemstones. These synthetic gemstones are manufactured in controlled laboratory environments using advanced techniques that mimic natural processes occurring deep within the earth. However, as technology has evolved, lab grown gemstones have become an increasingly popular choice in the marketplace. Not only do they look almost identical to natural gemstones in appearance, but they are also more affordable, and their environmental attributes have made them a more popular choice. But how can consumers tell lab-grown gemstones from natural gemstones in a market full of them?
Basic Concepts Of Lab-Grown Vs. Natural Gemstones
First of all, in terms of chemical composition, there is little difference between lab-grown and natural gemstones. For example, both lab-grown and natural diamonds are made of carbon and share the same physical properties and chemical composition. However, the biggest difference between the two is the formation process.
- Lab-grown Gemstones: Lab-grown gemstones are gemstones that have been cultivated by artificial methods under laboratory conditions. These gemstones have the same chemical composition and physical properties as natural gemstones, but are cheaper to produce and therefore relatively inexpensive.
- Natural Gemstones: Natural gemstones are mineral crystals formed naturally within the earth through hundreds of millions of years of geological action. Due to their rarity and uniqueness, natural gemstones are usually more expensive.
- High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT): This method involves subjecting carbon to extremely high pressures and temperatures to form diamonds.
- Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD): In this process, a gas mixture is heated until it breaks down into its constituent elements, which are then deposited on a substrate to form diamonds.
- Flux Growth: Used primarily in the manufacture of colored gemstones such as rubies and sapphires, this method involves dissolving the gem material in a molten flux and allowing it to crystallize slowly.
- Hydrothermal growth: This technique simulates the conditions of geothermal vents to grow gemstones such as emeralds and quartz.
Differences in Appearance
Although lab-grown and natural gemstones are very similar in appearance, there are still some subtle differences that can help us make the distinction.
- Color and transparency:
- Natural Gemstones: The color and clarity of natural gemstones vary depending on the origin and deposit. For example, natural diamonds range in color from colorless to yellow, brown and even blue. Natural rubies can range in color from light red to deep red.
- Lab-grown Gemstones: Lab-grown gemstones are more consistent in color and clarity because they are produced under controlled conditions. For example, lab-grown diamonds are usually more uniform in color and more transparent.
2.Inclusions:
- Natural Gemstones: Natural gemstones often contain a variety of inclusions within them, such as air bubbles, fissures and other mineral particles. These inclusions are naturally occurring during the formation of natural gemstones and are one of the most important bases for identifying natural gemstones.
- Laboratory-grown Gemstones: Laboratory-grown gemstones have fewer, if any, inclusions, which are the result of human control. For example, lab-grown rubies may have a small number of air bubbles inside, but these bubbles are usually evenly distributed and regular in shape; natural diamonds usually contain black carbon inclusions, while lab-created diamonds may contain metal inclusions.
3.Surface Characteristics:
- Natural gemstones may show signs of wear, such as scratches or nicks, due to their age. Laboratory-produced stones are usually flawless.
Differences in Physical Properties
There are also some subtle differences in the physical properties of lab-grown and natural gemstones.
- Hardness:
- Natural Gemstones: natural gemstones are usually harder, for example, a natural emerald has a hardness of 7.5-8 Mohs.
- Laboratory-grown Gemstones: laboratory-grown gemstones have the same hardness as natural gemstones, e.g., a cultivated emerald also has a hardness of 7.5-8 Mohs.
- density:
- Natural Gemstones: the density of natural gemstones varies depending on the type and origin. For example, natural sapphire has a density of approximately 4.00 g/cm³.
- Laboratory-grown gemstones: laboratory-grown gemstones have the same density as natural gemstones; for example, laboratory-grown sapphires also have a density of approximately 4.00 g/cm³.
- Scientific and Technical Testing Methods
In order to more accurately identify lab-grown and natural gemstones, scientists and jewelers have developed a series of high-tech testing methods.
Microscopic observation:
- Natural Gemstones: Various inclusions inside natural gemstones, such as air bubbles, fissures and other mineral particles, can be observed through a microscope. The shape and distribution characteristics of these inclusions help to identify the authenticity of the gemstone.
- Laboratory-grown Gemstones: Laboratory-grown gemstones have fewer, if any, inclusions inside them, which are the result of human control. Microscopic observation of the shape and distribution of these inclusions can help in identification.
Comparison Of Laboratory-Grown Emeralds And Natural Emeralds Under A Microscope
4.Infrared Spectral Analysis:
- Natural Gemstones: Infrared spectral analysis can detect the chemical composition and structural features within gemstones. The infrared spectrum of natural gemstones usually has specific absorption peaks.
- Laboratory Cultivated Gemstones: The infrared spectrum of laboratory cultivated gemstones is similar to that of natural gemstones, but certain subtle differences can aid in identification.
5.UV fluorescence testing:
- Natural Gemstones: Natural gemstones may fluoresce differently under UV light, this fluorescence is caused by trace elements within the gemstone.
- Laboratory-grown Gemstones: Laboratory-grown gemstones may exhibit different fluorescence under UV light than natural gemstones. For example, some lab-grown diamonds may not fluoresce under UV light.
In addition, checking for an appraisal certificate issued by an authoritative organization is a very important step when purchasing gemstones. Certificates provided by internationally recognized gemstone appraisal organizations such as GIA (Gemological Institute of America), AGL (American Gemological Laboratories), etc. can provide consumers with a reliable reference basis. The certificate will record in detail the information of various parameters of the gemstone, including but not limited to weight, size, color grade, clarity, etc.
Natural Emerald GIA Certificate Sample
Market Conditions and Consumer Awareness
As the market for lab-cultured gemstones grows rapidly, more and more consumers are embracing and purchasing these stones. However, traditionalists still favor natural gemstones because of their rarity and historical significance. Natural gemstones often come with a story, whether it is the geological journey they have taken or the cultural heritage they represent. For many, natural gemstones have an emotional value that cannot be replicated by lab-produced stones.
- Natural Gemstones: Natural gemstones have long been considered a luxury and investment item due to their rarity and uniqueness. Many consumers consider natural gemstones to have a higher value and emotional significance.
- Lab Cultured Gemstones: Lab-cultured gemstones are increasingly favored by younger consumers due to their environmental friendliness and sustainability. Many consumers see lab-grown gems as a more affordable and environmentally friendly option.
Due to production costs and technological advances, lab-grown gemstones are often far less expensive than natural gemstones of the same quality. According to the Gemological Institute of America, lab-grown gemstones of the same size and quality cost around 20-30% of the price of a natural diamond. This price advantage has led more and more people to embrace and choose lab-grown gemstones for decoration or investment.
Whether you choose lab-grown or natural gemstones ultimately depends on your personal preferences and values. Lab-produced gemstones are a more sustainable and affordable option, while natural gemstones have a sense of history and uniqueness. By understanding the differences between these two types of gemstones and utilizing visual and advanced testing methods, you can make an informed decision that fits your lifestyle and values.
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