When you hear the word synthetic, you might immediately think of something fake or cheap. In the world of gemstones, however, synthetic doesn’t mean fake—it simply means man-made. Synthetic gemstones have the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as their natural counterparts, but they’re created in a lab rather than mined from the earth.
But are synthetic gemstones really worth buying? Are they just a cheaper alternative to the “real” thing, or do they bring their own unique advantages to the table?
In this article, we’ll dive into what synthetic gemstones actually are, how they’re made, how they compare to natural gemstones, and whether or not they’re a good investment for jewelry lovers, collectors, and ethical shoppers.
What Are Synthetic Gemstones?
Synthetic gemstones, also called lab-grown, man-made, or created gemstones, are stones that have been produced in a controlled laboratory environment. Unlike imitation gems (which only look like real stones but have different properties), synthetics are chemically and structurally identical to natural gems.
That means a synthetic sapphire, for example, is made of the exact same material as a natural sapphire—aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). It will be just as hard, just as brilliant, and just as beautiful.
The Key Differences Between Synthetic and Natural
| Feature | Synthetic Gemstones | Natural Gemstones |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Grown in labs | Mined from Earth |
| Chemical Composition | Identical to natural | Naturally formed |
| Inclusions | Fewer or different | Often more complex |
| Cost | Generally lower | Often higher |
| Environmental Impact | Much lower | Can be significant |
| Ethical Concerns | Minimal | Varies (conflict zones, labor issues) |
How Are Synthetic Gemstones Made?
There are several methods used to create synthetic gemstones. Each process tries to mimic the conditions under which natural gemstones form, using high temperatures and pressures or chemical reactions.
1. Flame Fusion (Verneuil Process)
This is the oldest and most cost-effective method, introduced in the early 1900s. A powdered form of the gem’s base material is melted in a flame and drips onto a rotating pedestal. As it cools, it forms a crystal.
Common stones produced: Rubies, sapphires, spinel.
2. Hydrothermal Growth
This method uses water, heat, and pressure to dissolve mineral nutrients and allow them to recrystallize, similar to how quartz and emeralds naturally form.
Common stones produced: Emerald, quartz, beryl.
3. Flux Growth
Here, chemicals called flux are used to dissolve the gem material at high heat. As the solution cools, crystals grow slowly, often with fewer defects.
Common stones produced: Sapphire, ruby, alexandrite.
4. Czochralski Process (Pulling Method)
A seed crystal is dipped into a molten liquid and slowly pulled upward while spinning. This allows the gem to grow in size as it cools.
Common stones produced: Garnet, yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG), GGG.
Each method has its own cost and produces slightly different visual characteristics, including inclusion types and growth patterns that experts can use to identify them.
Are Synthetic Gemstones Real?
Yes, synthetic gemstones are real gemstones—just not natural ones.
To break it down:
- Synthetic = Real but man-made
- Simulant = Fake lookalike (e.g., cubic zirconia as a diamond simulant)
- Natural = Real and Earth-mined
Lab-grown gems have the same sparkle, durability, and chemical makeup as the natural versions. They’re recognized by gemologists and often come with certifications from labs like GIA or IGI.
Why Do People Buy Synthetic Gemstones?
There are several reasons why synthetic gemstones have become increasingly popular:
1. Affordability
Synthetic gems can cost 20% to 80% less than their natural equivalents. For example, a natural emerald of good quality might cost $5,000, while a comparable lab-grown emerald could be priced under $1,000.
2. Beauty and Perfection
Lab-created gems often appear cleaner—with fewer inclusions or color zoning—making them more appealing for jewelry purposes.
3. Ethical Sourcing
Mining for natural gemstones can involve unethical practices, such as child labor, environmental destruction, or funding of conflict. Lab-grown options avoid these issues.
4. Sustainability
Growing gems in a lab uses significantly less water and doesn’t involve large-scale excavation or habitat disruption. Eco-conscious consumers see synthetic gems as the greener choice.
5. Accessibility
Rare gems like alexandrite or flawless rubies are extremely hard to find in nature. Lab-grown versions make them accessible for more people.
Common Types of Synthetic Gemstones
Let’s explore some of the most commonly available synthetic gemstones:
Synthetic Diamond
Lab-grown diamonds have exploded in popularity. Visually and chemically identical to mined diamonds, they’re graded the same way (4Cs: cut, color, clarity, carat) and can even fool experts without advanced testing equipment.
Synthetic Ruby and Sapphire
Among the first stones to be synthesized, they are often indistinguishable to the naked eye. Synthetics are popular for engagement rings and fashion jewelry.
Synthetic Emerald
Natural emeralds often have many inclusions, but synthetic versions can be much clearer. Lab-created emeralds are still composed of beryl and are incredibly popular among budget-conscious buyers.
Synthetic Spinel and Alexandrite
Spinel is often made in labs because of its hardness and gem-like luster. Alexandrite, a color-changing gem, is so rare in nature that synthetic versions are often the only accessible form.
Do Synthetic Gemstones Hold Their Value?
This is a nuanced question.
1. Resale Value
Natural gemstones often hold or even increase in value, especially rare or large stones with provenance. Synthetic gemstones, on the other hand, have limited resale value. Since they can be produced indefinitely, they’re not considered “investment-grade” in most cases.
2. Jewelry Value
If you’re buying jewelry to wear and enjoy—not as an investment—synthetic gemstones provide excellent value for money. You get all the sparkle without the markup.
3. Emotional Value
For many, jewelry carries more emotional than monetary value. A synthetic ruby in a family heirloom ring can be just as meaningful as a natural one.
How to Tell if a Gemstone Is Synthetic
While synthetic gemstones are real, sellers are legally obligated to disclose them as lab-created. But if you’re curious or suspicious, here are a few ways to tell:
- Inclusions: Natural stones often have visible inclusions (crystals, fractures, growth lines), while synthetic stones might have gas bubbles or curved striations.
- Color: Synthetics may appear unnaturally vibrant.
- Magnification: Under a jeweler’s loupe or microscope, trained gemologists can spot telltale signs of lab growth.
- Certification: Always request a certificate from a recognized gemological lab.
Ethical and Environmental Impacts
In a time when consumers are increasingly mindful of where their goods come from, synthetic gemstones offer peace of mind.
Mining Challenges:
- Land degradation
- Water pollution
- Dangerous working conditions
- Conflict funding
By choosing lab-grown stones, you reduce your footprint and support more transparent sourcing practices. That said, lab environments also consume energy—so not all synthetics are perfectly green. Always look for companies that disclose their practices.
Are Synthetic Gemstones Worth Buying?
Let’s answer this once and for all—with a breakdown of who might benefit from choosing synthetics.
They’re worth buying if:
- You’re looking for a beautiful gemstone on a budget.
- You care about ethical sourcing and sustainability.
- You want larger or higher-clarity stones for your money.
- You’re more interested in aesthetics than investment.
They may not be worth buying if:
- You’re purchasing jewelry strictly as an investment.
- You prefer natural imperfections and rarity.
- You want something with inherent historical or geological significance.
Ultimately, it comes down to your personal values, budget, and goals.
Final Thoughts
Synthetic gemstones are not cheap knockoffs—they’re the real deal, made in labs with the same materials as natural gems. For many buyers, they offer a perfect blend of beauty, ethics, and affordability.
While they may not hold the same long-term value as rare, natural stones, they make excellent choices for everyday jewelry, gifts, and even engagement rings. As lab technology continues to advance, it’s likely we’ll see more people embracing these stunning, sustainable alternatives.
So, are synthetic gemstones worth buying? For most people, the answer is a clear yes—as long as you know what you’re buying and why.
Bonus Tip: If you decide to shop for synthetic gemstones, look for reputable jewelers who clearly label their products, offer lab certifications, and provide transparency about their manufacturing processes. This ensures you get a quality product without any surprises.
Whether you’re building a jewelry collection, planning a special gift, or just love sparkling gems, synthetic gemstones might just be the hidden treasure you’ve been looking for.