Natural vs. Lab-Created Rubies: What's the Difference?

With naked eyes you cannot make out if a ruby is natural or lab created. They are identical to each other with respect to their physical and chemical characteristics. The big difference lies in their creation: while original Manik stone are formed inside the earth surface, the lab created ones are formed under controlled conditions in the lab. In the market place you might find similar looking red gemstones and identifying which is real is difficult. This blog will highlight some of the major differences between the two:

Difference between natural and lab created ruby 

• Origin Difference

Original Manik stone formation takes millions of years. They are formed inside the earth under intense heat and pressure. Natural Manikya stones are mined from locations such as Burma, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Mozambique and the US. Lab created rubies on the contrary are formed under laboratory conditions such as flame fusion and hydrothermal growth. 

• Clarity and Appearance 

By looking at both these gems with your naked eyes you cannot make out the difference. They look similar in color. Inclusions in the lab are created under specific conditions imitating those of the natural ones. Compared to these, natural rubies have inclusions that originated during its formation inside the earth. Pigeon blood red ruby from Burma are the best when it comes to splendid color and eye clean clarity. 

• Hardness 

Both natural and lab-created rubies have a Mohs hardness of 9, making them highly durable. Natural Manikam stones are susceptible to breakage, cracks may occur in them. On the contrary, lab created counterparts do not get damaged even if they fall off. 

• Price and Value

Natural vs lab created ruby is majorly seen when their prices are compared. Natural Manikam stone originated from the rocks, they are exceptionally rare. The 1 carat of ruby price depends upon the origin and 4C’s. Burma manik stone 1 carat price may range from INR 10,000 TO INR 30,000 if it is highly clear and features intense pigeon blood red color. On the contrary, man made rubies are priced less. 

• Resale and Investment Value

Natural Manikya stone is real and rare. Thus these are considered the best gemstones to invest in. They do have a resale value. The 25.59 Sunrise ruby was sold for $30.42 million at a Sotheby's auction in Geneva, Switzerland in 2015. This made it the most expensive ruby in the world. Lab created Manik stones on the contrary are least expensive and do not have a resale value. Thus, investing in them is only good for jewelry purposes. 

Are lab created rubies worth?

Lab created rubies are worth and make a good jewelry piece. These are nowadays much in use because of ethical concerns. Moreover, with mines being closed in most of the areas man made gemstones are in high demand. They do look similar to the natural counterparts and exude high brilliance. But do you know lab grown Manik stone is not suitable for astrological needs. This is because in Vedic astrology it is said that only original gemstones work. They contain the desired energy which can be transmitted to the wearer leading to astrological benefits. 

How to tell if Ruby is Lab grown?

The only way to tell that a ruby is natural and not lab created is a certificate from a recognised laboratory like GIA, IGI, GRS. Best place to buy certified ruby online is Navratan. They provide you with the original certificate and detailed specification of the product. Order your Manek stone for astrology from Navratan now!