Rubies, with their mesmerising regal red hue and fiery allure, have captivated the world for centuries. These ruby stones have been treasured for their beauty and symbolism, making their way into everyone’s jewellery boxes. While natural rubies are mined from the earth, advancements in technology have made it possible to create lab-grown rubies with stunning precision and quality. But how are lab-grown rubies created? Let’s dive into the fascinating world of lab-grown ruby manufacturing for a better understanding.
Natural vs. Lab-Grown Rubies Differences
Natural rubies are formed deep within the Earth’s crust under high pressure and temperature conditions. These gemstones are composed of aluminium oxide with trace amounts of chromium, which give them their signature red colour. Mined from deposits around the world, natural rubies are prized for their rarity and unique characteristics.
Now, what is a lab-grown ruby? Well, lab-grown rubies are simply rubies that are created in controlled environments using various methods that simulate the natural gemstone formation process. Lab-grown rubies offer a more affordable alternative to earth-mined rubies without compromising on quality. One important factor to remember when considering natural vs. lab grown rubies is that both share identical optical, physical, and chemical properties.
How Are Lab-Grown Rubies Made
Eager to know how lab-grown rubies are made? There are 4 methods used in lab-grown ruby production: Flame Fusion, Flux Growth, Czochralski process, and Hydrothermal process.
Flame Fusion
The Flame Fusion method is one of the oldest and most straightforward man-made ruby manufacturing techniques. In this process, a fine powder of aluminium and chromium oxides is melted using a flame that reaches temperatures of around 3,600° F. The molten material is then solidified to form a crystal that mimics the structure of natural rubies. While Flame Fusion rubies are the least expensive and quickest to produce, they can have a glassy appearance with no inclusions and curved growth planes.
Flux Growth
Flux Growth is a lab-created ruby manufacturing method that utilizes a flux material to dissolve aluminium oxide at lower temperatures compared to other processes. The dissolved ruby molecules then combine to form crystals within the flux solution over a period of several months. This lab-grown ruby growth method can produce ruby crystals with inclusions and growth patterns similar to those found in natural rubies, making them highly sought after for their quality and authenticity.
Czochralski Process
The Czochralski process is a more sophisticated lab-grown ruby process that involves growing large, high-quality ruby crystals. In this cultivated ruby process, a seed crystal is dipped into a crucible containing molten nutrient material at a high temperature. The seed crystal is then slowly pulled out of the crucible, allowing the nutrient material to solidify and form a crystal structure. The Czochralski process can produce large ruby crystals with diameters exceeding 2 inches and lengths reaching over 40 inches.
Hydrothermal Process
The Hydrothermal process involves placing powdered or crystalline nutrient material in a pressure-resistant tube along with a seed crystal. The tube is filled with a water-based solution and sealed shut before being placed in a furnace chamber. As the tube is heated, the nutrient material migrates towards the seed crystal and crystalizes on its surface under high-pressure conditions. This method can produce high-quality ruby crystals with straight growth planes and inclusions, similar to natural rubies.
In conclusion, whatever the method used, lab-grown ruby technology offers an affordable alternative to natural gemstones without compromising on quality and beauty. As the demand for these gemstones continues to rise, lab-grown rubies are poised to become popular for discerning consumers looking for luxury without breaking the bank.
Now that you know all about lab-grown rubies, we know you want to shop lab-created ruby jewellery. Well, go ahead and cheque out our favourites below.
Top Lab-Grown Ruby Jewellery Picks
1. Lab-Grown Ruby and Lab Diamond Twisted Vine Ring
Love nature-inspired jewellery? Then, you must get your hands on this super charming twisted vine ring. Adorned with a lab-grown ruby and diamonds, this ring will elevate any outfit in your closet.
2. Lab-Grown Ruby Teardrop Pendant with Diamond Accents
This lab-grown ruby teardrop pendant exudes sheer elegance. It also features dazzling diamond accents for some extra glitz and glam.
3. Lab-Grown Square Ruby Stud Earrings
Jazz up your desk-to-dinner looks with these stunning ruby studs. Minimal yet stylish, this pair will add a pop of colour to your OOTD.
4. Lab-Grown Classic Oval Ruby Tennis Link Bracelet
Want lab-grown gemstone jewellery with a classic vibe? Cheque out this lab-grown ruby tennis link bracelet. Pair it with your work outfits or evening wear for a chic look.
5. Lab-Grown Ruby Engagement Ring with Lab Diamonds
Looking for an engagement ring that matches your love story? How about this lab-grown ruby engagement ring? After all, rubies are the ultimate symbol of love and passion. Plus, this ring also features lab-grown diamonds on the shank for some extra shimmer and shine.
6. Lab-Grown Ruby Infinity Pendant with Lab Diamonds
Treat yourself or your mom, sister, or BFF to this charming and symbolic infinity pendant. Adorned with a lab-grown ruby and diamonds, this piece will complement both your casual and formal outfits.
7. Lab-Grown Ruby and Lab Diamond Inside-Out Hoop Earrings
If you love all things trendy, these hoops need to be a part of your jewellery rotation. Featuring lab rubies and diamonds, these earrings will instantly spruce up any ensemble.
We’re sure you can’t wait to add our top picks to your cart. For more options, explore our lab-grown ruby jewellery collection and choose from rings, earrings, pendant necklaces, and bracelets in a variety of classic and modern styles.
FAQs
1. What are the Flame Fusion and Flux Growth methods for lab-grown rubies?
The Flame Fusion method involves melting aluminium oxide powder with chromium to form ruby crystals, while the Flux Growth method involves dissolving aluminium oxide in a mixture of chemicals before slowly crystallizing into rubies.
2. How are lab-grown rubies made?
Lab-grown rubies are made by Flame Fusion, Flux Growth, Czochralski, or Hydrothermal processes, which involve creating conditions in a controlled environment to replicate the natural process of ruby formation.
3. What are the Czochralski and Hydrothermal processes for lab-grown rubies?
The Czochralski process involves melting aluminium oxide and slowly pulling a crystal out of the melt to form a ruby, while the Hydrothermal method uses high pressure and temperature to grow rubies in a solution.
4. How long does it take to grow a lab ruby?
It typically takes several weeks to several months to grow a lab ruby, depending on the method used and the desired size and quality of the gemstone.
5. Are lab-grown rubies cheaper than mined rubies?
Lab-grown rubies are generally more affordable than mined rubies, as they require less resources and do not involve mining operations.
6. Do lab-grown rubies have the same sparkle as mined rubies?
Lab-grown rubies have the same sparkle and colour as earth-mined rubies, as they have the same chemical composition and physical and optical properties as natural rubies.
