Synthetic Gemstones are laboratory-created versions of genuine crystals with the same chemical, physical and optical properties. A Synthetic Gemstone is identical to a natural gemstone in almost every way. This includes the same basic crystal structure, refractive index, specific gravity, chemical composition, colours and other characteristics. Technicians isolate the conditions of nature and speed up these processes using heat, pressure and solutions to create Synthetic Gemstones. These stones are equal to genuine gems except that they are made in labs using sophisticated technologies. Due to the controlled environment, synthetic gemstones contain fewer inclusions or flaws than natural gems and feature brighter colours. Common examples of synthetics include the Ruby, Sapphire, Emerald, Garnet and Diamond.
Varieties of Synthetic Gemstones
A variety of methods are currently used in the production of synthetic crystals, resulting in different qualities, appearances and prices. The following gemstones are common synthetics:
•Spinel
•Amethyst
•Diamond
•Emerald
•Opal
•Ruby
•Sapphire
•Alexandrite
Difference between Synthetic and Real Gemstones
Distinguishing a real gemstone from a synthetic one is a skill which every individual should learn. The difference between synthetic and real gemstones is very difficult to distinguish just by looking at one.
The biggest difference between the two is that the Synthetic Gemstone is usually of better clarity, with fewer inclusions and often better color. This is because the process of making the gem is controlled; minerals that cause inclusions or color differences in the stones are not introduced, which makes synthetic stones appear to be more perfect than their natural counterparts. While a natural gem may need to be heat treated to bring out its color, a synthetic version can be grown to have the desired color on demand. A real gemstone will not look perfect and is likely to have scratches or flaws. These flaws make each gem unique to one another.
Another way to determine whether a gem is real or fake is by the weight of the stone. Synthetic Gemstones often weigh more than real ones. Perhaps the most notable difference between synthetic and real gemstones is the price. Synthetic stones are moderately priced because they are not as rare as real gemstones. This keeps the cost of some lab-created gems low in comparison to natural stones.
