For centuries, rubies have captivated us with their mesmerizing red hue and timeless beauty. However, the allure of these precious gemstones has often been accompanied by high costs, rarity, and ethical concerns associated with mining. In this blog post, we will explore the fascinating world of lab-grown rubies, shedding light on their creation, properties, and the many advantages they offer.
The Science Behind Lab-Grown Rubies
Synthetic Rubies (also called "Lab-grown Ruby" or "Synthetic Ruby"), are chemically identical to a natural Ruby. Depending on the production method, they might be a tiny bit different under 50x magnification, but with other methods, they are 100% identical. They won't look fake or tacky - the biggest factor that goes into a gemstone's appearance is the choice of cut/design and the quality of the cutting.
Here at Stag & Finch, our lab-crafted rubies are grown using the Czochralski Pulled method which uses a tiny starter crystal that is dipped into a solution and very, very slowly pulled out. This process is so slow, that it only produces Ruby at a rate of 2mm/hour, but results in a lab-crafted gemstone that has the same optical properties and hardness as its mined counterpart. The brightness of our Ruby is Ri 1.76-1.77, identical to other sapphire colors.
Identifying Lab-Grown VS Natural Ruby
Distinguishing between natural and lab-grown rubies can be a challenging task for even the most experienced gemologists. Over the years, advancements in gemological testing techniques have made it possible to differentiate between the two. Gemologists often rely on a combination of spectroscopy, magnification, and other analytical methods to detect the subtle differences in growth patterns, inclusions, and trace elements that can distinguish lab-grown rubies from their natural counterparts.
Benefits of Lab Rubies
Affordability: One of the most significant advantages of lab-grown rubies is their affordability. Compared to natural rubies, which can fetch astronomical prices, lab-grown rubies offer a cost-effective alternative without compromising on their aesthetic appeal.
Ethical and Environmental Considerations: The mining of natural rubies often raises concerns about labor practices, human rights violations, and environmental damage. Lab-grown rubies eliminate these ethical concerns as they are produced in a controlled laboratory environment, minimizing the negative impact on ecosystems and communities.
Consistency and Availability: Natural rubies vary in color, clarity, and size, making it challenging to find matching gemstones for jewelry sets. Lab-grown rubies, on the other hand, offer consistent quality, color, and clarity. Moreover, they can be produced in larger quantities, ensuring a steady supply of these magnificent gemstones.
Customization and Creativity: Lab-grown rubies can be created with specific characteristics and colors to meet the demands of designers and consumers. The ability to tailor-make rubies opens up a world of creative possibilities, allowing for unique jewelry designs and personalized gemstone preferences.
Symbolism and Significance
The rich red color of rubies is often associated with love, passion, and desire. Throughout history, this gemstone has been considered a symbol of fiery, intense emotions. The color red is inherently linked to concepts of love and romance, making ruby a popular choice for engagement rings and anniversary jewelry.
Future of Lab Rubies
Lab-grown rubies have gained widespread acceptance and popularity, and their future looks bright. As technology advances, we can expect even more remarkable breakthroughs in the creation of lab-grown gemstones. Improved techniques may result in larger rubies, enhanced color options, and greater control over their physical properties. The growth of the lab-grown gemstone industry will continue to redefine the concept of luxury and transform the way we perceive and acquire these exquisite gems.
Lab-grown rubies have emerged as a game-changer in the world of gemstones, offering a sustainable, affordable, and ethically sound alternative to natural rubies. These dazzling synthetic gems showcase the incredible potential of human ingenuity and scientific advancement. As we embrace lab-grown rubies, we embark on a new era where beauty, conscience, and innovation intertwine, paving the way for a more sustainable and inclusive jewelry industry.