Lab-Grown vs Natural Gemstones – How to Tell Them Apart

Natural gemstones typically fall into the semi-precious category, making them highly desirable. The appeal of semi-precious gemstones lies in their affordability coupled with vibrant colours and unique patterns. However, if you're a gemstone enthusiast or someone who values authenticity, it's essential to understand the differences between natural and lab-grown gemstones. This article explores the key distinctions between the two, helping you make informed choices when selecting original gemstones.

Overview of Lab-Grown and Natural Gemstones

Lab-Grown Gemstones

Lab-grown gemstones, also known as artificial gemstones, are manufactured in laboratories using specialised equipment. These controlled environments replicate the conditions under which natural gemstones form. However, while natural gemstones take millions of years to develop, lab-grown counterparts can be produced in just a few weeks.

Chemists use raw materials matching the composition of the desired gemstone and subject them to high-pressure, high-temperature processes. The outcome is a crystal that closely mimics the properties of a natural gemstone.

Natural Gemstones

Natural gemstones are mined from beneath the Earth's surface and occur naturally without human intervention. Often referred to as original gemstones, they form over millions of years under the Earth's heat and pressure. Their rarity stems from the lengthy formation process and the challenges associated with mining them.

Significant gemstone reserves are found in countries such as Brazil, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Zimbabwe, Madagascar, Colombia, Zambia, Australia, Mozambique, and Tanzania.

Comparing the Properties of Lab-Grown and Natural Gemstones

Understanding the formation processes of lab-grown and natural gemstones allows us to compare their properties effectively. The method of creation influences various characteristics, including appearance, value, and durability.

Appearance

A primary difference between artificial and original gemstones is their appearance. Natural gemstones typically exhibit colour variations and natural inclusions, making each stone unique.

 In contrast, lab-grown gemstones often appear nearly flawless due to their controlled formation environment. Batches of lab-made gemstones tend to look similar to each other, lacking the impurities that cause colour variations in natural stones.

Value

The value or price is another distinguishing factor. Natural gemstones are rarer and require substantial resources to mine, making them more expensive than lab-grown stones. They also tend to retain their value over time.

Lab-grown gemstones are more affordable due to the ease of production and the ability to mass-produce them. While they can be resold, they generally do not hold a high resale value.

Durability

Both lab-grown and natural gemstones often share similar levels of hardness. However, the composition of lab-grown gemstones can be adjusted to enhance their toughness, making them more resistant to wear and tear.

Some mined gemstones are naturally durable, but many natural stone varieties require special care to prevent chipping or cracking.

Is It Easy to Spot Lab-Grown Gemstones?

Despite the differences between lab-grown and natural gemstones, distinguishing them can be challenging for the average person. Experts utilise specialised equipment such as microscopes, refractometers, and spectroscopy to accurately identify lab-grown stones.

Typically, the more affordable gemstones available in the market are lab-grown. If you're concerned about the origin of your gemstones, the most reliable approach is to purchase from a trusted natural gemstone provider.

Gemstone Gifts is an authentic source of 100% natural mined gemstones. All our gemstone products are handcrafted to perfection, making them ideal gifts for gemstone enthusiasts or anyone who appreciates authentic materials.

In Conclusion

Both lab-grown and natural gemstones are readily available online and in the UK market. For those who prioritise authenticity, natural gemstones remain the preferred choice. The decision between mined and artificial gemstones depends on the buyer's preferences and intended use. Despite the various testing methods available, it's advisable to purchase gemstone products from a reputable natural gemstone provider to ensure authenticity. Want to learn about the numerous benefits and uses of gemstones check our blogs here.

gemstonegifts.co.uk is a provider of authentic and all-natural gemstones; have questions or need advice? Please contact us here.