How do natural, laboratory-grown and imitation gemstones differ?
Natural gems form in nature; laboratory-grown gems are manufactured counterparts, while imitations resemble a gem but may be a different material.
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Natural gems form in nature; laboratory-grown gems are manufactured counterparts, while imitations resemble a gem but may be a different material.
A laboratory report identifies or grades specified characteristics; it is not automatically an appraisal, insurance value or resale guarantee.
Ask the seller to disclose known treatments, their effect on care and whether the report identifies any treatment limitations.
Carat measures gemstone weight, while karat describes gold purity; the similar words refer to different properties.
Diamonds of the same carat weight can differ in price because colour, clarity, cut, origin category and other characteristics also matter.
Cultured pearls are real pearls formed with human intervention; imitation pearls are other materials made to resemble pearls.
Silver jewellery contains a stated silver alloy; silver-plated or gold-plated jewellery has a surface layer over another material.
A plating-thickness claim describes the coating, but it cannot by itself guarantee how long a bridal piece will keep its finish.
Ask for the stone material to be identified explicitly; polki-style describes an appearance and does not prove the set contains diamonds.
Check the actual metal, stone material and construction rather than treating kundan as a complete statement of value.
Test adjustable fastenings for secure closure, smooth edges and comfortable fit before relying on them during an event.
Follow the maker's care instructions and protect imitation jewellery from abrasion and products that may damage its coating or glued components.