What Is a Simulated Gemstone?
A simulated gemstone is a stone that visually resembles a natural gemstone but is created using materials that may differ chemically or structurally. Unlike lab grown or synthetic gemstones, which replicate the exact chemical and physical properties of natural stones, simulated stones aim to mimic appearance rather than composition.
Explore our Lab Grown Gemstones Theme Page to compare lab grown, synthetic, and simulated stones, and visit Gemstone Engagement Rings for practical examples.
Types of Simulated Gemstones
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Glass Simulants
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Made from high-quality glass
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Often colored to imitate emeralds, sapphires, or rubies
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Affordable and visually appealing
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Cubic Zirconia (CZ)
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Simulates diamond brilliance
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Hardness: 8–8.5 Mohs
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Popular in lab made engagement rings
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Moissanite
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Closely resembles diamonds with high refractive index
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Ethical and lab-created for sustainability
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Often used in engagement and fine jewelry
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Synthetic Corundum
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Imitates sapphires or rubies
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Chemically identical but lab grown using different methods
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Reference: GIA – Understanding Simulants
Differences: Simulated vs Lab Grown vs Natural
|
Feature |
Natural Gemstone |
Lab Grown Gemstone |
Simulated Gemstone |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Chemical Composition |
Natural |
Same as natural |
May differ |
|
Physical Properties |
Natural |
Same as natural |
May differ |
|
Value |
High |
Moderate |
Low |
|
Ethical Impact |
Mined |
Minimal |
Minimal |
|
Appearance |
Unique |
Near-perfect |
Imitative |
Advantages of Simulated Gemstones
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Affordability
Simulated stones are much more budget-friendly, enabling larger or more intricate jewelry designs.
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Variety
Can mimic any color or type of gemstone, allowing creative freedom in jewelry design.
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Ethical Choice
No mining required; many simulated gems are eco-friendly and conflict-free.
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Accessibility
Widely available in rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets.
Popular Uses of Simulated Gemstones
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Engagement Rings: Affordable alternatives to diamonds and precious gems
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Fashion Jewelry: Trendy designs using colorful simulated stones
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Statement Pieces: Large or intricate designs made cost-effective with simulated gems
Check out Lab Made Jewelry for designs combining lab grown and simulated gemstones.
How to Identify Simulated Gemstones
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Visual Inspection
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Flawless, uniform color may indicate simulation
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Hardness Test
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CZ and moissanite are harder than glass simulants
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Certification
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Always check for GIA or IGI reports when possible
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Reference: American Gem Society – Gemstone Identification
Caring for Simulated Gemstones
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Cleaning: Use mild soap and warm water; avoid harsh chemicals
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Storage: Keep separate from natural gemstones to prevent scratches
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Maintenance: Inspect regularly to maintain stone and setting integrity
Why Simulated Gemstones Are Popular
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Cost-effective: Perfect for modern jewelry buyers
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Ethical and sustainable: Avoids environmental damage from mining
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Versatile: Can imitate almost any gemstone for creative designs
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Ideal for gifting: Affordable luxury without compromise
CTA:
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