Think emeralds are only for the lucky few? Think again— 'coz modern science is giving mother nature a hard competition with its Lab-grown gemstones! 

Well, a lab-created emerald is exactly what it sounds like – An emerald that has been cultivated and nurtured in the controlled environment of a laboratory. 

But how are these green gems created? 

In this blog, we will learn everything about them, from the history, and exploring the different methods used to understanding the differences between natural and lab-grown emeralds. 

Let's get started!

History

Forget pickaxes and dusty mines - the future of emeralds is sparkling bright in a lab!  Believe it or not, scientists cracked the code to growing these green gems way back in the 1800s. A French chemist named Jacques Joseph Ebelman gets the bragging rights for inventing the first method in 1848, but it wasn't quite ready for prime time. In 1920, a young adventurer named Carroll Chatham cracked the code and created the world's first commercially viable lab-grown emeralds using the flux-growth method. Meanwhile, across the pond in Germany, a scientific trio named Nacken, IG Farben, and Zerfass were also experimenting with growing these green beauties. The 1960s saw the arrival of hydrothermal synthesis, a technique that mimicked the natural emerald formation process even more closely.

Today, companies like Chatham continue to be at the forefront of lab-grown gemstones, offering a wider variety than ever before. From classic emeralds to stunning alexandrites, the future of these ethically sourced gems is actually looking bright!

Natural Vs Lab-grown Emeralds

Nature has crafted emeralds over millions of years, forming these green gems under immense pressure deep within the Earth. Thus these natural stones often carry inclusions, or "jardin," giving them unique character. However, their rarity and potential imperfections contribute to a higher price tag.

On the other hand, lab-grown emeralds are a product of human ingenuity. Created in controlled environments, they often exhibit superior clarity and color consistency. While lacking the historical allure of natural stones, they offer exceptional beauty at a fraction of the cost.

Lab-creation Methods Of Emeralds

Contrary to popular belief, scientists aren't actually "making" emeralds in a lab. Instead, they're replicating nature by creating a controlled environment where the right chemistry cooks up these dazzling green gems. 

1. Hydrothermal synthesis:

The hydrothermal method is a fascinating process that mirrors the Earth's natural gem-forming conditions. By subjecting materials to high temperatures and pressures within a water-based solution, scientists can cultivate stunning emeralds.

• A beryl seed is placed in a sealed, pressurised container filled with pure water
  
  
• A nutrient containing crushed emerald, chromium, and vanadium is added
  
  
• The container is heated to 1800°F and 800psi, causing the nutrient to reform and crystallise on the seed
  
  
• Crystals grow at a rate of about 0.15mm per day
  
  

Hydrothermal emeralds often exhibit inclusions similar to those found in natural stones, making them remarkably authentic in appearance.

2. Flux growth:

The flux-growth method involves a different approach to creating lab-grown emeralds. By using a molten solvent, scientists can dissolve the necessary elements for emerald growth. 

• Gem nutrients are dissolved in a molten flux.
  
  
• Crystallisation occurs on a seed of natural emerald or beryl.
  
  
• Allows for larger sizes and higher quality than early hydrothermal methods.
  
  

Did you know? 

By the year 2000, the global production of lab-grown emeralds had significantly increased, with estimates placing the annual output well above 600,000 carats.

Which one is better? 

No-matter if it's just for an everyday jewellery, or an emerald engagement ring— the choice between natural and lab-grown emeralds comes down to several factors:

• Budget: Lab-grown emeralds are much more affordable, allowing access to larger stones or higher qualities.
  
  

• Appearance preferences: Some prefer the consistent color and clarity of lab-grown stones, while others prize the unique character of natural inclusions.
  
  

• Authenticity: Natural emeralds are considered more authentic and prestigious, especially for important jewelry like engagement rings
  
  

What Are The Different Types Of Lab-grown Emerald Jewellery?  

Synthetic emeralds offer all the beauty of natural emeralds at a fraction of the cost. And because of their creation process, lab-created emeralds are mostly free of inclusions. So if you’re looking for an alternative and more affordable option to natural emeralds, consider lab-created emeralds. You’ll find them just as lovely – and more affordable! 

So, whether you’re looking for a lab grown emerald necklace or lab grown emerald earrings, we can work with you to create a one-of-a-kind piece that is perfect for your style. Our experienced designers will work with you to create a unique and fashionable piece!

FAQs

1. Are lab grown emeralds better?
Well, it ultimately boils down to individual needs and preferences. Lab-grown emeralds are more affordable and can have fewer inclusions, resulting in a more consistent color and clarity but if you're looking for something rare and unique, or for astrological and metaphysical purposes— natural emeralds are for you. 

2. How are emeralds made in a lab?
Lab-grown emeralds are typically created using either Hydrothermal synthesis or Flux growth method. 

3. What is the hardness of lab created emeralds?
The hardness of lab-created emeralds is the same as natural emeralds, which is 7.5-8 on the Mohs hardness scale.