Emerald stones, also known as Panna Ratan are enchanting stones known for their deep dark green hue that captivates the heart in one catching moment. These precious gems are highly valuable and so are lab-created as well. But there is much difference between lab-created emerald stones and natural ones.
In this blog, we will discuss about the differences between natural emerald stone and lab-created ones.
Natural Emeralds – Mined From Earth
The natural panna stones are formed in the earth’s core over millions of years. They are made in a natural environment under intense heat and pressure. OSM Natural emeralds are natural precious stones that have a green shade and are excavated from below the earth’s surface. These are rare gemstones that may refer to elegance and luxury and therefore are still appropriate for fine jewelry today.
Belonging to the Beryl mineral family, natural emeralds get their rich green hue from the presence of chromium or vanadium. The shade and tone of the colour depend on the amount of these trace elements.
Also, since these stones are formed naturally, they have natural inclusions, which are quite common.
There are many sources of emeralds around the world. Know about all of them here – What Are The Top Sources Of Emerald Stone?
Lab-Created Emeralds – Made Humanly in Laboratories
Synthetic emerald gemstones are created manually during different processes in the lab. These methods like flux-growth, hydrothermal process, etc., mimic the natural condition of the environment in which the gemstones are formed. So, these gems are the same as the natural ones in their properties whether it is chemical, physical or optical properties.
Synthetic emeralds are eco-friendly, pocket-friendly, and eye friendly. Created in research facilities they reflect the inherent beauty of the emeralds and their crystallography yet have a smaller carbon footprint, what attracts the environmentalists in jewelry.
So if you try to see if your gemstone is natural or lab-created by properties, it is very hard to tell. Even the experts need specific knowledge and instruments to differentiate between the two.
Natural vs Lab-Created Emerald – Quality Factors
The Color – Natural emeralds can be found in different green hues from light shades of dark green to deeper shades and intense saturation. While in lab-created gems, since there is a controlled environment, you will find consistent coloured gemstones.
Cut – The cut of a gemstone is to enhance its brilliance. The process is the same in both natural and synthetic Panna stones.
Carat Weight – Mined emeralds in larger sizes are very rare which is why they are more valuable while the ones created in the lab can easily be made in large sizes and make them more accessible.
Clarity – The inclusions or internal flaws in the emerald stones are very common. In mined Panna stones there are always going to be inclusions, even if they are less and not visible to the naked eye, there will be an inclusion or two.
Synthetic ones have fewer inclusions and sometimes none at all.
Major Differences Between Mined and Synthetic Emeralds
Emerald Stone Price
The major difference is in the Panna stone price. Natural gemstones are costly and more expensive because of their rarity, authenticity and mining processes.
While the lab-created gems are more affordable because they are created in controlled situations.
Investment Potential
If you are looking for a gemstone for investment then you should embrace the natural ones because lab-created ones have no value whatsoever. This is because they lack the rarity and historical importance as well as naturality.
As a long-term investment, you should go for mined Panna gems only. You can pass them on to your generations as well. Because of their naturality and rarity, they will hold more value.
Astrological Significance
Astrologically, emerald stones are powerful gems that can enhance your communication skills and bring you growth and prosperity. They are the symbol of rejuvenation and royalty.
As per an expert astrologer, you will get the positive energies of the Panna ring or gem only when it is natural and untreated.
How To Choose Between The Two?
Choosing one of them is based on your values, preferences, intentions and purpose. If you want to buy as an investment or for its astrological purpose then you should choose the original and mined gemstones.
However, if you have Ethical and Environmental Considerations and are only looking for beautiful gemstone jewellery fashion-wise then you can opt for the lab-created one.
Conclusion
Emerald stones are beautiful and desirable but natural ones are more valuable because of their authenticity. You can choose one from a synthetic or real one based on your preferences. these gems are the same as the natural ones in their properties whether it is chemical, physical or optical properties. If wanna buy Panna stone, original and authentic, then purchase it from a reputable seller like Navratan, the online gem bazaar, where you will get natural and lab-certified gemstones at the best prices.