What is Difference Between Real And Synthetic Gemstone?

The allure of gemstones has captivated humans for millennia. From ancient civilizations to modern societies, these precious stones have been revered for their beauty, rarity, and supposed mystical properties. However, not all gemstones are created equal. There is a significant distinction between real (natural) and synthetic (lab-created) gemstones, each with its own unique characteristics and value. In this comprehensive blog, we will explore the differences between real and synthetic gemstones, delving into their formation, identification, value, and ethical considerations.

 

Formation and Origin

 

Real Gemstones

Real gemstones, also known as natural gemstones, are formed through natural geological processes over millions of years. These processes involve intense heat, pressure, and a combination of various minerals and elements. Natural gemstones are typically found in specific locations around the world, such as the mines of South Africa for diamonds, Myanmar for rubies, and Colombia for emeralds.

The formation of natural gemstones can be categorized into three main types:

1. Igneous Formation: Gemstones like diamonds and peridot form from molten rock (magma) deep within the Earth’s crust. As the magma cools, crystals begin to form, creating these precious stones.
2. Metamorphic Formation: Gemstones such as sapphires and garnets are formed through the metamorphism of existing rocks. This process involves high pressure and temperature that cause the minerals within the rocks to recrystallize and form gemstones.
3. Sedimentary Formation: Gemstones like opals and malachite form through the deposition of minerals from water. Over time, these minerals accumulate and crystallize, creating gemstones.

 

Synthetic Gemstones

Synthetic gemstones, also known as lab-created or man-made gemstones, are produced in controlled laboratory environments. Unlike natural gemstones, which take millions of years to form, synthetic gemstones can be created within a matter of weeks or months. The technology used to create synthetic gemstones has advanced significantly, allowing scientists to replicate the conditions under which natural gemstones form.

There are several methods used to create synthetic gemstones, including:

1. Flame Fusion (Verneuil Process): This is one of the oldest methods for creating synthetic gemstones. It involves melting powdered chemicals with an oxyhydrogen flame to produce a crystalline structure. This method is commonly used to create synthetic sapphires and rubies.
2. Hydrothermal Synthesis: This method mimics the natural formation of gemstones by using high pressure and temperature to dissolve minerals in water and then allowing them to crystallize. Hydrothermal synthesis is often used to create synthetic emeralds and quartz.
3. Czochralski Process (Crystal Pulling): In this method, a seed crystal is dipped into a molten solution of the desired material and slowly pulled out, allowing the crystal to grow layer by layer. This process is used to create synthetic alexandrite and other gemstones.
4. Flux Growth: This method involves dissolving the necessary elements in a flux (a molten substance) and allowing them to crystallize as the solution cools. Flux growth is used to create synthetic sapphires, rubies, and other gemstones.

 

Identification and Characteristics

Identifying the differences between real and synthetic gemstones can be challenging, especially for the untrained eye. However, there are several key characteristics and techniques that gemologists use to distinguish between the two.

 

Real Gemstones

1. Inclusions: Natural gemstones often contain inclusions, which are tiny imperfections or foreign materials trapped within the stone during its formation. These inclusions can be minerals, gas bubbles, or other materials. While inclusions are generally considered flaws, they can also be used as identifying markers to confirm the authenticity of a natural gemstone.
2. Color Zoning: Natural gemstones may exhibit color zoning, which is the presence of different colors or shades within the same stone. This occurs due to variations in the concentration of minerals during the stone’s formation.
3. Growth Patterns: Natural gemstones often show growth patterns or lines that result from the natural crystallization process. These patterns can be observed under magnification and are unique to each gemstone.
4. Fluorescence: Some natural gemstones exhibit fluorescence under ultraviolet light. For example, diamonds may show a blue fluorescence, while some rubies and sapphires may exhibit red or orange fluorescence.

 

Synthetic Gemstones

1. Uniformity: Synthetic gemstones tend to be more uniform in color and clarity compared to natural gemstones. This is because they are created in controlled environments where variables such as temperature and pressure can be precisely managed.
2. Lack of Inclusions: While synthetic gemstones can be created with inclusions to mimic natural ones, they are generally more flawless than their natural counterparts. Any inclusions present are often deliberately introduced to make the synthetic stones appear more natural.
3. Synthetic Growth Patterns: Synthetic gemstones may exhibit growth patterns that differ from natural stones. For example, synthetic sapphires created using the flame fusion method often display curved striae (lines) that are not found in natural sapphires.
4. Advanced Testing: Gemologists use advanced techniques such as spectroscopy, which analyzes the light absorption and emission properties of a gemstone, and X-ray diffraction, which examines the crystal structure, to accurately identify synthetic gemstones.

 

Value and Market Considerations

The value of a gemstone is determined by several factors, including rarity, quality, and demand. Understanding the differences in value between real and synthetic gemstones is crucial for both buyers and sellers.

 

Real Gemstones

1. Rarity: Natural gemstones are rare and their availability is limited by the geological processes that form them. This rarity contributes significantly to their value. For example, high-quality natural diamonds and emeralds can command premium prices due to their scarcity.
2. Quality: The quality of a natural gemstone is assessed based on the “Four Cs” – color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. Each of these factors plays a role in determining the overall value of the gemstone. High-quality natural gemstones with exceptional color, clarity, and cut are highly sought after and can be very valuable.
3. Historical and Cultural Significance: Many natural gemstones have historical and cultural significance, which can enhance their value. For example, the Hope Diamond and the Black Prince’s Ruby are famous for their historical importance and unique characteristics.
4. Investment Potential: Natural gemstones are often viewed as a form of investment. Their rarity and enduring value make them attractive to collectors and investors. Over time, high-quality natural gemstones can appreciate in value, providing a potential return on investment.

 

 

Synthetic Gemstones

1. Affordability: Synthetic gemstones are generally more affordable than their natural counterparts. The controlled production process allows for a consistent supply, which helps keep prices lower. This affordability makes synthetic gemstones accessible to a broader range of consumers.
2. Consistency: Synthetic gemstones offer consistency in terms of quality and appearance. Buyers can expect a high level of uniformity in color and clarity, which is often difficult to find in natural gemstones. This consistency can be appealing for those seeking specific aesthetic qualities.
3. Ethical and Environmental Considerations: The production of synthetic gemstones has a lower environmental impact compared to mining natural gemstones. Additionally, synthetic gemstones are free from ethical concerns related to conflict or “blood” diamonds. As a result, they are often favored by environmentally conscious and ethically-minded consumers.
4. Limited Investment Potential: While synthetic gemstones are beautiful and affordable, they generally do not hold the same investment potential as natural gemstones. Their value is primarily based on their aesthetic appeal rather than rarity, and they are unlikely to appreciate in value over time.

The differences between real and synthetic gemstones are rooted in their formation, identification, value, and ethical considerations. Natural gemstones, formed over millions of years through geological processes, are rare and valuable, often carrying historical and cultural significance. In contrast, synthetic gemstones, created in controlled laboratory environments, offer affordability, consistency, and ethical advantages.

When choosing between real and synthetic gemstones, it’s essential to consider personal preferences, budget, and ethical values. Both types of gemstones have their unique appeal and place in the market. Ultimately, whether you are drawn to the timeless allure of natural gemstones or the innovative beauty of synthetic ones, understanding these differences will help you make informed and meaningful choices in the world of gemstones.