Some jewelry shoppers hear the world “synthetic” or “imitation” and cringe. The real thing sounds so much more appealing, but is it really? There are a number of synthetic gems available, many of which are frequently found on engagement rings. Imitations sometimes offer more options that couples find attractive. Some are significantly less expensive to purchase while others offer visual characteristics that are equally stunning.
What is a Synthetic Gemstone?
A synthetic gemstone is any gem that is manmade. These are not produced in nature and are designed to look like the real thing. They do not have all the same physical or chemical characteristics, which can alter the appearance when scrutinized by a keen eye. Cubic zirconia is one of the most popular imitations along with Moissanite. Both of these are intended to look like diamond but include subtle differences that identify their true origins. There are many other desirable gemstones that have been imitated, such as ruby, sapphire and emerald.
The Cost of Synthetic Gems
Cost is one of the most noticeable differences between real and synthetic stones. This is also one of the key determining factors for couples on a tight budget. Most imitations cost a fraction of what the real crystal does. In some cases, there may be a few alternatives that offer a wider range of prices to work with. Going back to the diamond example, both cubic zirconia and Moissanite are cheaper than diamond but Moissanite costs more than cubic zirconia. The tradeoff is that the pricier alternative tends to look closer to the real thing.
Synthetic Visual Appeal
A well-made synthetic is generally harder to tell apart from the actual gemstone. The average person will likely have to look at the two side by side to begin noticing the subtle differences. For example, a synthetic sapphire may have dainty gas bubbles present within it. Imitation stones also tend to have vivid colors and are not subject to the imperfections caused by natural processes and environmental factors because they are made in a controlled environment.
Choosing Synthetic or Natural
Both materials have their pros and cons. The best way to choose between natural and synthetic gems is to evaluate them against the factors that will have the most influence over your engagement ring purchase. The first step should be to review your available budget for the ring. The stone can cost as much as 90% of the total price, but that doesn’t mean you have to pay out thousands for it. If you can only afford a modest piece, then consider getting more sparkle out of each dollar with a synthetic.
Does perfection matter to you or your future spouse? It’s not easy to find a perfect real stone at a reasonable price. If the gem must be perfect, then consider something manmade. Lab-produced crystals are less likely to have imperfections and usually feature better coloration. Try exploring gemstones online to see what’s available and just how different synthetic versions look. You may be surprised to find that both are viable options when buying engagement jewelry.