Be it for astrological advice or for the love of their gorgeous color and different accessories, gemstones have made a special place in our hearts. They have a different meaning for each person who wears them. To some, they're status symbols - for example, Hollywood stars dripping in rubies or emeralds at award events. Others cherish them as birthstones, as emblems of their legendary strength, or just as a preferred distinctive color.
But how are natural gemstones and lab-created gemstones different?
Natural Gemstones
As the name suggests, natural gemstones are made in nature with no human interference. The naturally occurring minerals when mixed with trace elements, give the gemstones their beautiful textures and colors which in turn determine their value. Although, the gemstones after they are mined, need to be cut and polished to get a definitive structure and shine that they possess, and hence humans tend to intrude into the process by treating the gemstone to achieve its true color.
Colored gemstones that occur naturally but undergo certain types of treatments to exhibit their true potential are called ‘Genuine Gemstones’. Because most natural gemstones are extremely rare, "genuine" gemstones have long been a regarded element of the trade.
Lab-Created Gemstones
Natural Gemstones are gorgeous but rare too and so the geniuses have revolutionized the gemstone industry by introducing lab-created gemstones. Lab-created gemstones have a lot of different names attached to them like - Enhanced, Artificial, Man-made, Alternative, faux gems, etc.
Lab-created jewels aren't imitations; they're in fact quite real. They are manufactured in a lab, but chemically, physiologically, and visually, they are identical to natural gemstones. While an imitation gemstone is also man-made, it does not follow nature's formula, therefore it is physically, chemically, and optically distinct from the natural gem it imitates. So more or less, Lab-created gemstones are natural, yet man-made…if that makes any sense!
Which one to choose?
Natural or Lab-created gemstones, which one to choose? Which is better? We are sure these questions come into your head whenever you’re planning on investing in gemstones! Both natural and lab-created gemstones have benefits and drawbacks, the choice is always based on the wearer's own preferences.
Here is a summary for you to make an informed decision! Read on to get your doubts resolved!
- Money, Money!! The most important factor of them all is how much one wants to spend on a gemstone. Lab-created gemstones are priced lower in comparison with natural gemstones and hence if you have a budget and still want to pursue a gemstone that is as real as the natural one then voila, a Lab-created gemstone is your calling.
- After money, the most important aspect to consider is the appearance of the gemstone. In terms of aesthetics, depending on the intended look that one requires, both natural and lab-created gems look fairly similar. Although, If you want a flawless-looking gem then lab-created gemstones are the ideal option because they are clear of inclusions and display the most vibrant color.
- If the wearer’s choice is more into authentic gemstones and prefers the rarity of it then natural/genuine gemstones should be your answer
GemsNY, a bespoke jewelry brand has more than 50,000 natural gemstones to choose from. Loose gemstones - Be it colored gemstones or lab-created diamonds we have it all. This is your one-stop shop for all your gemstones requirements! Hurry to get your prized possessions soon!
