Have you heard??? EVERYONE is seriously loving gemstone jewelry these days.
A quick scroll through Instagram or TikTok is all it takes to confirm that gemstone jewelry is being worn by average people and A-listers alike. A rich blue sapphire or luxurious green emerald does justice to everything, from earrings to engagement rings and everything in between.
So why are we having this major love affair with the gem?
Well, to begin with, gemstones are imbued with meaning and surprisingly affordable. You can give your bae an emerald pendant that celebrates your relationship and your love- without going for a second mortgage to pay for it. If she loves the color blue, a sapphire ring shows how deep your love is- just like the ocean!
The choice doesn’t end there, though! You can also choose between natural and lab-grown gemstones. So what are they and how are they different from each other (and diamonds)? Read on!
The Twig with a 1 carat Lab Created Emerald in White Gold
A Gift Imbued With Meaning
Many gemstones have a long history of use in jewelry and symbolism, and their meanings can add a layer of depth and personal significance to a piece of jewelry. Knowing those meanings can help you pick the perfect ring or pendant for your b-loved.
Here are the symbolic meanings behind some of the most popular gemstones:
• Emerald: Emeralds have a luscious green color that looks decadent in all types of jewelry. They’re often associated with love, loyalty, and new beginnings, making them a great gift for that special someone in your life.
• Amethyst: Amethyst is a gorgeous purple quartz that represents spiritual growth, healing, and clarity of thought. The gift of amethyst jewelry can convey these positive attributes and show that you care about the recipient.
• Aquamarine: Aquamarine has a stunning blue-green color that looks great in jewelry. It represents the sea and is said to have a calming, soothing effect on the wearer. Whether set in silver, gold, or other metals, aquamarine can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any outfit.
The Penelope with a 1 carat Oval cut Lab Created Aquamarine in White Gold
• Garnet: With its deep red color, garnet symbolizes love, passion, and energy. When you give it to that someone special, she’ll know how wild you are about her! Garnet is also believed to have healing properties and promote vitality, courage, and self-confidence.
• Ruby: Ruby is a relatively rare and valuable gemstone, which can make it feel super-luxurious as a gift. Ruby is often associated with red-hot passion: give your bae a necklace or super-cute pair of earrings and watch her light up.
• Sapphire: Sapphire used to be the exclusive domain of royalty. Not any more. Now you can buy this regal blue gemstone and present it to your one and only without being in line to the throne. Sapphire represents wisdom, truth, and faithfulness: give it as a gift and she’ll love the message you’re sending!
The Twig with a 1 carat Round cut Lab Created Sapphire in Yellow Gold
Where Do Natural Gemstones Come From?
Natural gemstones are mined from the earth and cut and polished to be used in jewelry or other decorative objects. Since the beginning of time, they’ve been valued for their beauty, rarity, and durability, as well as their cultural and historical significance. Some of the most celebrated natural gemstones include diamonds, rubies, sapphires, emeralds, amethysts, and aquamarines, among many others.
To be considered a ‘natural’ gemstone, the stone must be in its natural state when it is extracted from the earth. Lab-grown gemstones, on the other hand, are not considered ‘natural,’ although they’re super awesome too! (More on lab-grown sparklers later!)
Natural vs. Lab-Grown Gemstones- What’s the Deal?
Now for the BIG question: what’s the difference between natural and lab-grown gemstones?
We say it’s a big question because the answer is pretty detailed.
The main difference between natural and lab-grown gemstones is their origin. A natural gemstone forms over millions of years, while a lab-grown gemstone is created using advanced technology.
The Pave Alex with a 2.5 carat Emerald cut Lab Created Sapphire in White Gold
Here are some other differences:
• Because of their unique formation process and comparatively limited supply, you’re going to shell out more for a natural gemstone, especially in larger sizes or higher quality grades. This translates to a higher price point, which can be a big consideration.
• There can be subtle differences in their appearance and properties. For example, natural gemstones may have inclusions or other imperfections that give them a unique character, while lab-grown gemstones may have a more uniform appearance that’s absolutely gorgeous.
• Natural gemstones can be rare and difficult to find in certain sizes or colors, while lab-grown versions can be produced in a wider range of colors and sizes with greater availability.
Some people prefer lab-grown gemstones over natural ones because they are considered more ethical and sustainable. This is because they are produced in a controlled environment without the environmental or social impacts associated with mining and extraction.
Got It! So What About Natural Gemstones vs. Natural Diamonds?
More people, from femme fatales to fashionistas and beyond, are wild about natural gemstones. So how do they differ from natural diamonds, which are still regarded by many as the creme de la creme?
Whew! That’s another question with a pretty detailed answer!
Let’s start with appearance. Natural gemstones come in a wide range of colors and hues while diamonds are traditionally colorless but glimmer like icy fire. Natural gemstones can also have unique patterns, inclusions, and textures that make each stone and piece of jewelry one-of-a-kind.
The Lenny with a 2.5 carat Oval cut Lab Created Emerald in Yellow Gold and The Lenny with a 2.5 carat Oval cut Diamond in White Gold
Other differences include:
• Symbolism: While both diamonds and gemstones can have symbolic meanings, they tend to have different cultural and spiritual significance. In Western culture, for example, diamonds are still an essential part of an engagement ring, even if they’re only accents for a different type of center stone.
• Cost: Diamonds are one of the most popular and valuable gemstones, which drives up their price. In contrast, other natural gemstones, such as amethysts, garnets, and peridot, are more abundant and less rare, making them more affordable.
• Size: Diamonds are often cut to maximize their carat weight. In contrast, other natural gemstones can be cut into larger sizes without sacrificing quality or clarity.
Natural gemstone jewelry offers a unique and diverse range of options for those seeking jewelry that is distinctive and personal. While diamonds may be more traditionally associated with high-end jewelry, natural gemstones offer a more affordable alternative without sacrificing beauty or quality.
The Twig with a 2 carat Oval cut Lab Created Sapphire and The Twig band in White Gold
Make Your Next Gift a Gemstone
Gemstone jewelry makes a unique, affordable, and extremely personal gift. Looking for some ideas? Check these out!
If you’re in the market for an engagement ring, the Kamellie with an oval-cut lab grown emerald can tell her how enchanting and beautiful she is to you! For something more elaborate, why not present her with the Michelle? Imagine the diamond halo surrounding a lab grown sapphire- and then imagine her reaction when you present it!
Looking for a pendant for a birthday, Valentine’s Day, or just because? The classic Amelia with an elongated cushion sapphire can represent your love and emotional investment in the relationship. If she’s a big fan of extra sparkle, the Harper with a radiant cut emerald represents both ongoing love and a relationship imbued with prosperity.
The East-West Penelope with a 3 carat Lab Created Emerald in Yellow Gold
You Can’t Go Wrong With a Gemstone! (Especially a Lab-Grown One!)
Gemstone jewelry is a beautiful and meaningful way to express personal style and individuality. From the vibrant colors of emeralds and rubies to the timeless beauty of sapphires, gemstones are a perfect way to express how you feel about the recipient. Whether it’s your sweetheart or your sister, they’ll know how special they are to you.
When you go a step further opt for a lab-grown gemstone, you also benefit from illustrious beauty and opulence without the high cost. By choosing a lab-grown sapphire pendant or emerald statement ring, you can give a beautiful and socially responsible gift that your loved one will cherish for years to come.
