Lab Created vs Natural Gemstones
Lab-created gemstones have become increasingly popular, offering the same chemical composition and physical properties as their natural counterparts at a fraction of the price. But are they the right choice for you? This guide breaks down the key differences to help you decide.
| Factor | Lab Created | Natural |
|---|
| Chemical Composition | Identical to natural | Formed in the earth |
| Physical Properties | Same hardness, brilliance, color | Same hardness, brilliance, color |
| Formation Time | Weeks to months | Millions of years |
| Inclusions | Few to none (often too perfect) | Natural inclusions (fingerprint of nature) |
| Price | 50–90% less than natural | Full market price |
| Resale Value | Limited | Holds or appreciates over time |
| Rarity | Unlimited supply | Finite supply from the earth |
| Available Gems | Ruby, sapphire, emerald, alexandrite, spinel | All gemstones |
What "Lab Created" Actually Means
A lab-created gemstone is not an imitation. It has the exact same chemical formula, crystal structure, hardness, and optical properties as a natural gemstone. A lab ruby is real ruby—it is simply grown in a controlled environment rather than mined from the earth. By contrast, imitations like glass or cubic zirconia merely look similar but have completely different compositions.
The Case for Natural Gemstones
Natural gemstones carry the romance of millions of years of geological history. Each natural stone is unique, with its own inclusions that serve as a fingerprint of nature. Natural gemstones, especially fine rubies, sapphires, and emeralds, have historically appreciated in value over time. They carry emotional weight as heirlooms passed between generations. For many buyers, the rarity and natural origin are essential to the gemstone experience.
The Case for Lab Created Gemstones
Lab gemstones offer exceptional beauty at a lower price point, allowing buyers to afford larger or higher-quality stones. They are environmentally friendlier (no mining) and ethically straightforward. For buyers who prioritize beauty and value over natural origin, lab gemstones are an excellent choice.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose natural if: You value rarity, uniqueness, investment potential, and the emotional significance of a gemstone formed by nature over millions of years.
Choose lab created if: You want the largest, highest-quality stone for your budget and prioritize appearance and value over natural origin.
Learn more about natural vs lab created options in our Lab vs Natural Diamonds guide.