How do natural, laboratory-grown and imitation gemstones differ?
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Direct answer
Natural gems form in nature; laboratory-grown gems are manufactured counterparts, while imitations resemble a gem but may be a different material.
Ask for the identity and origin category to be written clearly on the invoice rather than accepting terms such as original or American diamond. Appearance alone may not distinguish them. A competent laboratory can identify material within the scope of its report. These categories should be disclosed separately from cut, condition, treatment and price; none is explained by sparkle alone.
Sources used
Man-made Diamonds: Questions and Answers
Gemological Institute of America
Material-origin terminology and the need for disclosure; laboratory-grown is distinguished from a look-alike.Source checked:
View sourceWhat Are Simulated Diamonds?
Gemological Institute of America
Distinguishes simulants from diamond material and explains why appearance alone is insufficient.Source checked:
View source