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Lab created blue sapphires growing popularity might have juggled your mind: -

What is the Difference Between Lab Created and Natural Blue Sapphire?

Are the lab created blue sapphires similar to their natural counterparts in appearance or other characteristics?

And many other such questions may have left you confused, so here we are spilling the beans on the difference between natural and lab created blue sapphires, so that you can take a thoughtful and well-researched decision.

Little about Blue Sapphire and it’s Importance:

Blue Sapphire is one of the precious gemstones - known for its durability, versatility, and rich deep blue hue.

Belonging to the mineral family corundum it’s chemical composition includes aluminum oxide and trace elements like iron, titanium, and chromium. Blue Sapphires have stayed popular and important from ancient times to today's fashion and “Something Blue” phrase in jewelry is enough to explain it today.

Why should you be familiar with the difference between lab created and natural blue sapphire?

Blue Sapphire is a gem of September born people, and have been loved by many since centuries. Whether you're considering it for a bridal jewelry or as a daily wear accessory, knowing the nature, meaning, and significance of your gemstone would help you in making an informed purchase.

Additionally, exploring cost-effective options allows for comparing sapphires of the same family and securing the best deal.

Difference Between Lab Created and Natural Blue Sapphire

Aspect   Natural Lab Created
History

Show their historical presence in ancient times, that is in Greek and Roman, where they were worn as protective symbols.

The history is indeed relatively short compared to naturally occurring sapphires. While some sources claim that the first created sapphire stone was seen in 1873, others attribute the development of synthetic sapphires to the mid-1900s.

Rarity

Can be grown in silicon free environment and they may take years to grow. So these precious gemstones `are rare in the jewelry market.

Advanced technology and modern day scientists have accelerated the process of creating these gemstones. And we are expecting an improvement in this technology too, so they are easily available.

Inclusions

Unique formations like crystals, uneven luster or coloration are some marks which depict the journey of a stone from earth’s crust to hands of artisans.

These are grown in controlled environments under the supervision of experts and noticed without any imperfections.

Price

Natural sapphires of high quality are generally rare and come with a premium price tag. The extensive resources and intensive labor involved in the process of mining and extraction add to their value.

Lab-grown blue sapphires are comparatively less expensive and can be produced in large quantities in a short span of time.

Color

Due to unpredictable and uncontrollable conditions in which the natural sapphires originate their color can vary from greenish blue to violet blue. 

Whereas the color of lab-created blue sapphires is vivid and brilliant blue, as it is free of any inclusions or flaws.

Age

Growing natural sapphire is a geological process and it depends on a number of environmental conditions like heat, temperature and pressure. Specific conditions required can affect the growth process. So time frame is not fixed, it can take a million years too.

Depending on the type of method and the size or type of the gemstone, lab sapphires can be created in just few days and weeks.

Meaning and Significance

Sapphire links with royalty, power, faithfulness and sincerity. And for September born individuals it holds a number of other benefits too.

Lab-created sapphires, due to their appealing appearance, add a touch of royalty but lack the sentimental value like their natural counterparts.

Environmental Impacts 

Crystals dug from the earth crust require abundant use of resources like electricity, manpower or water. Besides this also leads to soil erosion, water pollution and deforestation. So, natural sapphire mining and extraction are less eco-friendly, considering their significant ecological impact.

Lab grown blue sapphires creation process doesn’t disrupt ecosystems or harm habitats, as they are produced in controlled conditions. This method is environment friendly and aims to reduce its ecological footprint by employing renewable energy sources.

Availability of Sizes

Sapphires from the earth’s crust can differ in size and quality. Like, a new stone mined at times can have the required size but may not be of high quality, and sometimes it’s a high quality sapphire, but not of the needed size. Large sized sapphires are rare.

Lab created sapphire stones of high quality and high carat in almost all sizes are available consistently.

Durability

Natural sapphire is rated 9 on the Mohs hardness scale, which shows that it’s quite durable. But presence of internal stress points and inclusions, make it brittle and is prone to cracking and chipping

Lab created blue sapphires are more resistant to scratches or wear and tear. Thy are comparatively more durable and long lasting than their natural counterparts.

Formation Process

The formation of these minerals within the Earth's crust requires typical geological processes involving heat and pressure that persist for millions of years. Complex interaction between the host rock and mineral rich fluids results in their production. So every newly created sapphire has a unique identity and history.

Man-made sapphires are grown in laboratories using different methods such as Czochralski Pulled-Growth and the Flux Method. These techniques replicate the conditions that are required for natural sapphire growth.

Role in Jewelry

The authenticity and rarity of natural sapphires makes them prestigious gemstones that carry a sense of tradition. As a result, high-end sapphire jewelry is often considered an excellent choice for heirloom pieces. The unique story behind each gem adds a touch of love to its beauty.

Without compromising on beauty and quality, lab- created sapphires offer the same appeal at affordable prices. Additionally the greater design flexibility and wide range of sizes are helping artisans in designing creative pieces.

Points of consideration

Like other gemstones, color, clarity, and origin play crucial roles in selecting a natural blue sapphire stone. Additionally, obtaining a certificate of authenticity and ensuring ethical sourcing can also greatly contribute to the selection process.

When it comes to lab-created blue sapphires, similar parameters such as color, clarity, and overall quality hold significant importance. Understanding the formation process and assessing the manufacturer's reputation can also aid in making a worthy investment.

Vibrant Grown labs
Tagged: Education