Lab-Created Gemstones? Looking for opinions...?

Question

I was browsing online jewellers tonight, and I stumbled on the site for Kay's, where my boyfriend has bought me two piece already. I noticed that a huge number of their gems were listed as "lab-created". My gift this past birthday was an big opal ring, and I was so excited to get it! I've always wanted an opal, and it was one of the most beautiful, sparkly specimens I'd even seen up close. 

So the wheels started turning, and looking at it now I realize that it is definitely lab-created. I used to be so happy to wear it on my finger, but now all I see when I look at it is a cheap (not!), tacky fake. If it didn't have sentimental value attached to it, I doubt I would even wear it anymore. I know lab-created gems are technically as real as natural stones, but it sure doesn't feel that way.

What do you think about artifically-created stones? I think one of the nice things about gemstones is that they aren't always perfect, and no two stones are alike. Also, a big part of owning expensive jewellery is the prestige, and if they are making and selling a large amount of more affordable gems (which I know isn't completely a bad thing, 'cause it allows people who don't want to/can't spend a lot of money to own jewels, too). Plus, aren't they still on the expensive side? I can't say for certain, because I have no idea of the work that goes into making them. But for a majority of the stones, I didn't see much of a price break from natural to lab.

What do you think? Please don't answer with a criticism of my own opinions, because they are just that, OPINIONS. I just want to hear what other people think as well.

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

High quality lab-created stones are still quite expensive and it is a time consuming process, but I feel like you do, I prefer natural gemstones. On the other hand, there are hardly any gemstones untreated these days. They get heated, irradiated, dyed, stabilized etc. Sometimes, the end product hasn't got much in common with the starting product. For my own creations I use natural and lab-created gemstones, some I choose for their visual appeal, others also for the intrinsic value. It all comes down to personal taste I guess. 

The most important thing is, that you are not being sold a lab created gem for a natural gem. As in gifts, sometimes it is best to enjoy them as they are without trying to find out too much about them.

I know you don't want advice but I would still try and enjoy the ring for what it is, a beautiful piece, bought by someone who selected it because he loves you and wanted to bring you joy with it. It might be natural, it might be treated, it might be lab created - best to stop worrying about it. 

I hope you can go back to enjoying the ring.

Cheers

Schweetums · Answer

Yeah, I see what you are saying. I wouldn't want a fake Gucci or Coach so I wouldn't want a fake gem either. The difference in my opinion is that as long as it sparkles and blinds the other people around me and it isn't changing colors, I will wear it. I think it's ok but I would die if anyone found out. Definitely can not be the engagement ring, that would mean death for the man who bought it.

tallent · Answer

hmm uncertain, yet probable like cubic zirconia and different pretend stones like that! attempt googleing it and im specific you will arise with a good distance greater advantageous effects then yahoo solutions could provide you!

Trending News

Lab-Created Gemstones? Looking for opinions...?

3 Answers