Lab Grown Gemstones Guide
Sapphire, emerald and ruby. The same stones nature creates, grown without mining.
In short
- Lab-grown sapphires, emeralds and rubies are chemically and physically identical to mined stones. Only the origin differs.
- They are created in a controlled environment that recreates the conditions in the earth, without mining.
- Sapphire and ruby are among the hardest gemstones and suit everyday wear. Emerald is softer and needs a little more care.
- All three can be chosen as center stone or accent stone, and we also make custom pieces.
What are lab-grown gemstones?
Most people have heard of lab-grown diamonds. Fewer know that the same technology is used to create sapphires, emeralds and rubies of exceptional quality, without mining.
A lab-grown gemstone has the same mineral composition, hardness and color as a mined one. A lab-grown sapphire has the same deep blue as a sapphire from Kashmir, an emerald the same intense green as a Colombian one, and a ruby the same deep red as a Burmese stone.
The difference is origin. Mined gemstones form deep within the earth over millions of years. Lab-grown gemstones are created in a controlled environment that recreates the same conditions, in weeks instead.
Three gemstones
Sapphire
One of the hardest gemstones, just below diamond. Sapphire comes in more colors than blue: aquamarine, pink, green and yellow. Choose the color that feels like you.
Emerald
The green gemstone above all others, colored by chromium and vanadium. Choose Colombian, warm and intensely green, or Zambian, deeper and more blue-green.
Ruby
For centuries a symbol of passion, courage and love. A ruby as center stone is a bold and personal choice, with a deep red glow unlike anything else.
Side by side
| Sapphire | Emerald | Ruby | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | Blue, aquamarine, pink, green, yellow | Green to blue-green | Deep red |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 9 | 7.5-8 | 9 |
| Everyday wear | Very durable | Durable, avoid hard knocks | Very durable |
Why we work with lab-grown gemstones
Every stone we use comes from a controlled production process that can be traced. No mining, no questions about origin and no compromise on quality. It gives us the freedom to choose exactly the color, shape and size your piece needs, so you can create the dream piece you have in mind.
That is what responsible luxury means to us.
Frequently asked questions
Can I choose a gemstone instead of a diamond for my ring?
Yes. We work with sapphires, emeralds and rubies as center stones or accent stones in rings, necklaces and earrings.
Is a lab-grown gemstone real?
Yes. It has the same chemical and physical properties as a mined gemstone. Only the origin differs.
Which gemstone is best for everyday wear?
Sapphire and ruby are very hard and suit a ring worn every day. Emerald is a little softer and is best protected from hard knocks.
Can I have something made that is not in the collection?
Yes. Custom work is something we love doing. Read more about custom design or get in touch.