Emeralds are prized for their striking beauty and hypnotic emerald color. However, did you know that emeralds may also be made in a lab, much like many other gemstones? With special benefits that set them apart from their natural counterparts, lab emerald is a wonderful option for jewelry and gemstone aficionados.
What Are Lab-Created Emeralds?
Lab-Created vs. Natural Emeralds
The green hue of beryl, a mineral that includes elements of vanadium and chromium, is what gives emeralds their green hue. Over millions of years, deep under the Earth’s crust, natural emeralds are produced. On the other hand, lab-created hydrothermal emerald is produced in regulated settings that frequently mimic the conditions found in the Earth’s crust, but they do so far more quickly.
Crystal Growth
In a laboratory, scientists can recreate the conditions that lead to emerald formation. They start with a tiny natural emerald seed crystal and grow it layer by layer. Over time, these layers build up, forming a larger emerald. This process can take several months.
The Beauty of Lab-Created Emeralds
Color and Clarity
One of the advantages of lab-created emeralds is their vivid green color. These gemstones often exhibit a beautiful and uniform color that rivals high-quality natural emeralds. In addition, lab-created emeralds tend to have fewer inclusions or imperfections, making them clearer and more transparent.
Brilliance and Luster
Lab-created emeralds, like their natural counterparts, possess a captivating luster. When cut and polished, they reflect light brilliantly, creating a dazzling display of green hues. Their excellent clarity and color consistency contribute to their remarkable brilliance.
The Advantages of Lab-Created Emeralds
Affordability
One of the significant advantages of lab-created emeralds is their affordability. Natural emeralds of high quality can be very expensive due to their rarity and the demand for them. Lab-created emeralds offer a more budget-friendly option for those who desire the beauty of this green gem without breaking the bank.
Ethical Sourcing
Lab-created emeralds are an ethical choice for those concerned about the environmental and social impacts of mining. The mining of natural emeralds can sometimes involve harmful practices and contribute to ecological damage. Lab-created emeralds help reduce the demand for new mining operations.
Consistency
Lab-created emeralds are incredibly consistent in color and quality. This consistency makes them an ideal choice for jewelry design, as it’s easier for designers to match stones for a harmonious look. Natural emeralds can vary significantly in color and clarity.
Durability
Compared to real emeralds, lab-created and loose emerald stones are usually tougher and more resilient. They are a sensible option for regular jewelry like rings and earrings since they are less likely to chip or shatter.
How to Care for Lab-Created Emeralds
Gentle Cleaning
To keep your lab-created emerald jewelry looking its best, clean it regularly with mild soap and warm water. Avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, which can damage the gem.
Protection
Store your lab grown gems and emerald jewelry in a soft pouch or a jewelry box to prevent scratches. Avoid exposing your emeralds to extreme heat, as this can affect their color.
Regular Inspections
Have your lab-created emerald jewelry inspected by a professional jeweler periodically. This ensures that the settings are secure and that the gem remains in good condition.
In Conclusion
Emeralds made artificially are a beautiful alternative to real ones. Their amazing green color, excellent clarity, and affordable price are making them more and more popular in the world of gemstone jewelry. Without breaking the bank, a lab created diamond can give you the charm of this classic gemstone whether you’re looking for an engagement ring, earrings, or pendant. For your next piece of jewelry, consider the beautiful elegance of lab-created emeralds if emeralds are your thing.
