ShareThisWhat are Synthetic Gemstones?
Have you been jewelry shopping lately? If so, you might have run across a few labels that confused you. Did you see gemstones that were labeled "synthetic"? Does synthetic mean fake? No, and this explanation describing the differences between synthetic and simulant gemstones should clear things up for you.
Synthetic Gemstones are Real
Synthetic gemstones are gems created in a laboratory that have the same characteristics as gems found in nature. To be truly synthetic, a gemstone has to have the same composition, hardness, and appearance as a natural gemstone. Synthetic gemstones are tough to make and can be very valuable, but because they are not as rare as gemstones found in nature, they tend to be less expensive.
Simulant Gemstones are Fake
Simulant gemstones are made to look like natural gemstones, but they are composed of different substances. Cubic Zirconia is the most common type of simulant gemstone. It is produced to look like a diamond, but doesn't have a diamond's chemical composition. Many other simulant gemstones are made out of colored glass, and generally don't have the same sparkling qualities as their natural equivalents.
"Lab created" Gemstones
If you see the term "lab created" or "lab grown" as a descriptor of a gemstone in a jewelry store, you are looking at a synthetic gemstone. These terms are interchangeable. Why would someone rather buy a synthetic gemstone than a natural one? Because synthetic gemstones are essentially the same as natural gemstones in every way. The jewelry created from them can be just as exquisite. The only difference is that synthetic gemstones aren't as rare or as pricey. If you care mainly about how your jewelry looks, as opposed to its authenticity, you'd be able to save a lot of money buying synthetic gemstones without necessarily sacrificing quality.
