One of the most common questions I hear is about the difference between lab-created gemstones and natural gemstones. Are lab stones “real”? Do they have the same beauty? And why would someone choose one over the other?
At Belliveau Atelier, I work with both natural and lab-created gems, because I believe each has its own story to tell. The important thing to know is this: both are gemstones — just with different origins.
Natural Gemstones
Natural gemstones are formed by the earth over thousands or even millions of years. Heat, pressure, and mineral chemistry combine to create crystals that are then mined, cut, and polished for jewelry.
Their rarity is what makes them desirable. No two natural gems are exactly alike, and inclusions or color variations are part of their unique charm. For many, the history and origin of a natural gem carry as much meaning as its beauty.
Lab-Created Gemstones
Lab-created gemstones are grown by people, using controlled processes that replicate natural conditions. They share the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as natural stones — meaning they are “real” gems, not imitations like glass or plastic.
There are several ways to create them:
- Hydrothermal growth — crystals are grown slowly in water at high pressure and temperature.
- Flux growth — molten chemicals act like a solvent, slowly forming crystals as they cool.
- Pulled method (Verneuil process for sapphires) — a small seed crystal is drawn upward through molten material, forming a larger crystal.
These methods allow for consistency in color and clarity, making lab gems a wonderful choice for design.
Pros and Cons
Both natural and lab-created gemstones have advantages:
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Natural Gemstones
- Unique, rare, and traditional.
- Carry geological history.
- Often more expensive due to scarcity.
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Lab-Created Gemstones
- Affordable and accessible.
- Environmentally responsible compared to large-scale mining.
- Consistent in color and clarity.
Neither option is “better” — it simply depends on what speaks to you.
What I Use at Belliveau Atelier
For me, design is about celebrating beauty in every form. I use both natural and lab-created gemstones in my work. Some designs call for the rarity and individuality of natural stones. Others shine with the perfect color and affordability of a lab gem.
What matters most is the artistry, the detail, and the joy the finished piece brings to its wearer.
Closing Thoughts
Whether formed deep in the earth or carefully grown in a lab, gemstones are a reminder of nature’s brilliance and human ingenuity. Both paths lead to beauty — and both have a place at Belliveau Atelier.
