Or in colour stones: red glass or a red tourmaline which is used to imitate a ruby can also be called imitations or simulations. But their physical makeup is totally different from the stone they're trying to imitate. For instance, common diamond simulants are cubic zirconia, GGG (Gadolinium Gallium Garnet), moissanite and others. Simulated gems have been created solely to replicate the physical, external appearance of a gem. Simulated gems don't have a natural counterpart like synthetic gems have. Then there is what we call a simulated or imitation gem and, like the synthetic gems, these have been made in a lab. There's a big difference though between synthetic and simulated gems. For instance, there are synthetic versions of diamonds, rubies and blue sapphires. So, this stone has been made in a lab somewhere. For instance, a heat-treated ruby or an oiled emerald.Ī synthetic gem is the same as a natural gem (in terms of physical, chemical and optical properties), EXCEPT that is has been made by humans. It is unaltered by humans in any way, except for ordinary cutting and polishing.Ī treated gem is any gemstone that has been altered by humans, beyond ordinary cutting and polishing. fake crystals and gemstones.Ī natural gem is any gemstone which is entirely the product of nature. Treated gemstones are not "fake" and are different from "synthetic" gemstonesįirst, a few definitions to further explain the difference between real vs. Here are a few things that are good to know before buying coloured gemstones:ġ. Or feel scammed by the idea that a stone has been treated.Īlthough there are definitely unacceptable or questionable gem-treatments out there, a lot of treatments are totally OK. Don't let a lack of information make you miss out on these exquisite coloured stones of nature! When armed with a bit of research and prepared with some questions to ask your jeweller or gem dealer - you can enjoy a wonderful gemstone that suits your budget and avoid any pitfalls or embarrassment that could follow after your purchase. Until they hear the price of natural stones. Most (potential) buyers of gemstone jewellery on the other hand, have no clue about these gemstone treatments. And only want "natural gemstones". In fact, almost all rubies and blue sapphires have been heat-treated to enhance their colour or to improve the clarity and make the stone look more attractive. There's nothing wrong with that - it is a fully acceptable treatment for gem laboratories, gemologists and gem dealers around the world. Without treatments, there would virtually be no gemstone jewellery industry! As the most commonly known stones have virtually all been treated, such as amethyst, citrine, blue topaz, aquamarine, emerald, ruby and blue sapphire. Why? Because there simply aren't enough natural and untreated gemstones to meet the demand in the market. I also had no idea about this before I dove into gemology. While it's nice to assume that all gemstones are a product of nature, completely untouched by humans, it's just not the case, and it would even be impossible. "What do you mean 95% of all rubies and blue sapphires in the world have been treated?!"Īn exclamation I often hear when discussing gemstones. KNOW YOUR STONES How to Buy Coloured Gems and Which Questions to Ask
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