What To Know
- While natural alexandrite continues to hold a special place in the realm of precious stones, the advent of lab-created alexandrite has introduced a new dimension to the market.
- These processes mimic the natural conditions under which alexandrite forms in the earth’s crust, resulting in gemstones that possess similar chemical and physical properties to their natural counterparts.
- Lab-created alexandrite may also exhibit fluorescence under UV light, but the intensity and color of the fluorescence may differ from that of natural alexandrite.
Alexandrite, a captivating gemstone renowned for its color-changing properties, has captured the hearts of jewelry enthusiasts worldwide. While natural alexandrite continues to hold a special place in the realm of precious stones, the advent of lab-created alexandrite has introduced a new dimension to the market. Understanding the differences between these two types of alexandrite is crucial for informed decision-making and ensuring authenticity. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge to confidently identify lab-created alexandrite, ensuring you make an informed purchase.
Lab-Created Alexandrite: A Closer Look
Lab-created alexandrite, also known as synthetic alexandrite, is produced in controlled laboratory settings using advanced technological processes. These processes mimic the natural conditions under which alexandrite forms in the earth’s crust, resulting in gemstones that possess similar chemical and physical properties to their natural counterparts.
Distinguishing Lab-Created Alexandrite from Natural Alexandrite
While both lab-created and natural alexandrite share remarkable similarities, there are subtle differences that can help you differentiate between them. Here are some key factors to consider:
1. Color-Changing Properties:
- Natural Alexandrite: Renowned for its distinct color-changing ability, natural alexandrite displays a dramatic shift from green in daylight to red or purplish-red under incandescent light. This phenomenon is attributed to the presence of chromium, which acts as a coloring agent.
- Lab-Created Alexandrite: While lab-created alexandrite also exhibits color-changing properties, the effect is often less pronounced compared to natural alexandrite. The color change may be more subtle, and the hues may not be as vibrant.
2. Inclusions and Imperfections:
- Natural Alexandrite: Natural gemstones, including alexandrite, often contain inclusions or imperfections. These are tiny particles or flaws that can be visible under magnification. Inclusions are a natural occurrence and can vary in size, shape, and color.
- Lab-Created Alexandrite: Lab-created alexandrite, being produced in controlled laboratory conditions, typically exhibits fewer inclusions and imperfections compared to natural alexandrite. The absence of inclusions can be an indication of lab-created origin.
3. Growth Patterns:
- Natural Alexandrite: Natural alexandrite crystals exhibit distinct growth patterns that are formed during their geological formation. These patterns can be observed under magnification and can provide insights into the gemstone’s natural origin.
- Lab-Created Alexandrite: Lab-created alexandrite, due to its controlled growth environment, often lacks the unique growth patterns found in natural alexandrite. The growth patterns in lab-created alexandrite may be more uniform and less intricate.
4. Fluorescence:
- Natural Alexandrite: Natural alexandrite often exhibits fluorescence under ultraviolet (UV) light. Fluorescence refers to the gemstone’s ability to emit visible light when exposed to UV radiation. The fluorescence of natural alexandrite can vary in intensity and color, depending on the specific gemstone.
- Lab-Created Alexandrite: Lab-created alexandrite may also exhibit fluorescence under UV light, but the intensity and color of the fluorescence may differ from that of natural alexandrite. Some lab-created alexandrite may show weaker or no fluorescence at all.
5. Price:
- Natural Alexandrite: Natural alexandrite, due to its rarity and limited availability, typically commands a higher price compared to lab-created alexandrite. The price of natural alexandrite can vary significantly depending on factors such as size, quality, and color.
- Lab-Created Alexandrite: Lab-created alexandrite, being produced in larger quantities and under controlled conditions, is generally more affordable than natural alexandrite. The price of lab-created alexandrite can vary depending on factors such as size, quality, and the specific laboratory that produces it.
6. Certification:
- Natural Alexandrite: Natural alexandrite often comes with a certificate of authenticity from a reputable gemological laboratory. This certificate verifies the gemstone’s natural origin and provides details about its characteristics, such as weight, color, and clarity.
- Lab-Created Alexandrite: Lab-created alexandrite should also come with a certificate of authenticity from the laboratory that produced it. This certificate confirms the lab-created origin of the gemstone and may provide information about its growth method and quality.
7. Reputable Source:
- Natural Alexandrite: When purchasing natural alexandrite, it is essential to choose a reputable and trustworthy vendor or jeweler. A reputable vendor will provide accurate information about the gemstone’s origin and characteristics.
- Lab-Created Alexandrite: Similarly, when purchasing lab-created alexandrite, it is important to choose a reputable laboratory or vendor. A reputable laboratory or vendor will provide accurate information about the gemstone’s lab-created origin and its quality.
Making an Informed Decision: Choosing Between Natural and Lab-Created Alexandrite
The choice between natural and lab-created alexandrite ultimately depends on your individual preferences and budget. Natural alexandrite offers the allure of rarity and the satisfaction of owning a gemstone formed by natural processes over millions of years. Lab-created alexandrite, on the other hand, provides a more affordable alternative with similar beauty and durability, making it an excellent option for those seeking a budget-friendly gemstone.
Beyond Beauty: The Ethical and Environmental Considerations
Lab-created alexandrite presents an ethical and environmentally conscious choice. The mining of natural alexandrite can have adverse effects on the environment, including habitat destruction and pollution. Lab-created alexandrite, produced in controlled laboratory settings, eliminates these concerns and offers a sustainable alternative.
Summary: Empowering Informed Choices with Knowledge
Understanding the differences between lab-created and natural alexandrite empowers you to make informed decisions when purchasing this captivating gemstone. Whether you choose the allure of natural alexandrite or the affordability and sustainability of lab-created alexandrite, armed with knowledge, you can confidently select the gemstone that best suits your preferences and values.
Frequently Asked Questions: Unraveling Common Queries
1. Can I tell the difference between lab-created and natural alexandrite with the naked eye?
While some experienced gemologists may be able to distinguish between lab-created and natural alexandrite based on visual characteristics alone, it is generally recommended to use gemological instruments and techniques for accurate identification.
2. Is lab-created alexandrite as valuable as natural alexandrite?
Lab-created alexandrite is generally more affordable than natural alexandrite due to its larger supply and lower production costs. However, the value of both types of alexandrite can vary depending on factors such as size, quality, and color.
3. Which type of alexandrite is more durable?
Both natural and lab-created alexandrite are considered durable gemstones with a hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale. This means they are resistant to scratches and everyday wear and tear.
4. Can I use the same care and cleaning methods for both natural and lab-created alexandrite?
Yes, you can use the same care and cleaning methods for both natural and lab-created alexandrite. These gemstones can be cleaned using a mild detergent and warm water, followed by a soft cloth to dry. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners.
5. Is it ethical to purchase lab-created alexandrite over natural alexandrite?
The ethical implications of purchasing lab-created alexandrite versus natural alexandrite depend on individual perspectives. Lab-created alexandrite offers a more sustainable and environmentally conscious choice, as it eliminates the need for mining and reduces the impact on natural ecosystems.
