Emeralds are one of the most sought-after gemstones in the world. Known for their beautiful green color, emeralds have been prized for thousands of years. But did you know that not all emeralds are natural? In recent years, lab-created emeralds have become a popular alternative to natural emeralds. In this blog post, we will explore both natural and lab-created emeralds, their differences, and what you should know when purchasing them.
Natural Emeralds:
Natural emeralds are formed in the earth's crust over millions of years. They are made of beryl, which is a mineral that contains trace amounts of chromium and vanadium. These trace elements give emeralds their distinctive green color. Emeralds are typically found in countries such as Colombia, Brazil, and Zambia. You may also recognize the gemstone names aquamarine, morganite, and heliodor, which are all beryl as well, with the only difference being the color caused by different trace elements in each gem.
One of the most important things to know about natural emeralds is that they are rare and valuable. They can be quite expensive, especially if they are high quality. The color of a natural emerald is an important factor in determining its value, as is its clarity. Natural emeralds are often treated with oils or resins to enhance their appearance and make them more durable.
Lab-Created Emeralds:
Stag & Finch, lab-created emeralds, on the other hand, are made in a laboratory using a process called hydrothermal synthesis. This process involves growing emerald crystals in a high-pressure, high-temperature environment that mimics the conditions under which natural emeralds are formed. The result is a stone that looks and behaves like a natural emerald but is created in a lab. One of the biggest advantages of lab-created emeralds is that they are more affordable than natural emeralds and are also more environmentally friendly, as they do not require mining. There is also far less potential for exploitation of the populations in gemstone bearing countries where natural emeralds are found, as lab-created emeralds can be produced at any location which makes them an ethical choice.
In conclusion, emeralds are a beautiful and valuable gemstone that can be enjoyed in both natural and lab-created form. While natural emeralds are rare and expensive, lab-created emeralds offer an affordable and environmentally friendly alternative. Whatever your preference, make sure you purchase from a reputable seller and look for a stone with rich color and minimal inclusions.
