Blue sapphires have long been prized for their stunning beauty, enchanting symbolism and rich colour. These precious blue sapphire stones have captured the hearts of many with their mesmerising royal blue hues. While natural blue sapphires are incredibly rare and can come with a hefty price tag, technological advancements have allowed for lab-grown sapphire production creating blue sapphires that are just as beautiful and durable. But exactly how are lab-grown sapphires made? Let’s explore the exciting world of lab-grown sapphire manufacturing to uncover the secrets behind the creation of these stunning blue gemstones.
Know More About Natural and Lab-Grown Blue Sapphires
Natural blue sapphires are formed deep within the earth’s crust over millions of years under intense heat and pressure. These gemstones are mined from select locations around the world and are highly sought after for their beauty and rarity.
Lab-grown blue sapphires, as the name suggests, are created in a lab in a controlled environment. They offer a more affordable alternative to their natural counterparts. When it comes to natural vs. lab grown blue sapphires, you’ll be thrilled to know that lab-grown blue sapphires are optically, chemically, and physically identical to earth-mined blue sapphires. The only difference is in the way they are formed.
How Lab-Grown Sapphires Are Developed
Now that you know what is a lab-grown blue sapphire, let’s take a look at the methods used to create these gems. Lab-created sapphire manufacturing involves two methods, the Melt process or the Flame process and the Solution process.
Melt Process (Flame Process)
The Melt process, also known as the Flame process, is one of the oldest and most cost-effective methods for man-made sapphire manufacturing. In this lab-grown sapphire growth process, aluminium oxide powder, the primary mineral in corundum, is melted using a flame. The molten material forms into a long teardrop shape known as a ‘boule.’ By adding other minerals to the aluminium oxide, coloured varieties of sapphire can be produced.
The Verneuil process, a type of flame fusion process, can produce sapphires that are much larger than natural sapphires.
Another variation of the Melt process, known as the Czochralski process, uses radio waves to melt the aluminium oxide. A rod with a seed crystal at the tip is inserted into the mixture. As it is slowly rotated and pulled out, a column of sapphire is formed. Despite being a more expensive method, the Czochralski process can yield up to 4 inches of crystal per hour.
Flame fusion lab-grown sapphires are available in larger sizes and come in a range of colours. These lab-created gems are typically flawless and exhibit the same brilliance and beauty as natural blue sapphires.
Solution Process
Hydrothermal synthesis is a Solution process that closely mimics the conditions under which natural sapphires are formed. In this method, the minerals are exposed to intense heat and pressure, resulting in the formation of sapphires around a seed crystal just as the mineral solution rises.
Diamond manufacturers utilize flux or flame fusion as part of the cultivated sapphire process. Fluxing involves dissolving components in a solution and letting them crystallize over time. Flux sapphires, like their natural counterparts, may contain internal imperfections and are generally available in smaller sizes. Larger sizes of flame fusion lab-grown sapphires are produced using a combination of materials and heat, resulting in exquisite gemstones.
In conclusion, the lab-grown sapphire process is a fascinating blend of science and technology. These lab-made gemstones offer a more affordable option for those who admire the beauty of blue sapphires. With advancements in lab-grown sapphire technology, lab-created blue sapphires are becoming increasingly popular in the world of fine jewellery, providing an exquisite alternative to their natural counterparts.
Now, we know what’s on your mind. You’re eager to treat yourself to some lab-created blue sapphire jewellery. Well, we won’t keep you waiting any longer. Go ahead, take a look at our top picks below.
7 Lab-Grown Blue Sapphire Jewellery Picks
1. Lab-Grown Princess Diana Inspired Blue Sapphire Ring with Lab Diamond Halo
Looking for lab-made jewellery fit for royalty? It doesn’t get any better than this lab-grown blue sapphire ring inspired by Princess Diana’s iconic ring. The floral halo featuring lab-grown diamonds adds extra sparkle to this piece.
2. Lab-Grown Classic Round Sapphire and Lab Diamond Tennis Bracelet
Add a chic and sophisticated touch to your ensemble with this lab-grown blue sapphire and diamond tennis bracelet. You can flaunt this classic piece solo or pair it with other pieces to create a stylish bracelet stack.
3. Lab-Grown Blue Sapphire Teardrop Pendant with Lab Diamond
Love a minimal aesthetic? Then, this lab-grown blue sapphire teardrop pendant is meant for you. It also features a lab diamond for just a hint of sparkle.
4. Lab-Grown Blue Sapphire Leverback Earrings with Lab Diamond Halo
Step out in style wearing these breathtaking lab-grown blue sapphire earrings. Thanks to the diamond-studded halos, this pair offers the perfect combination of colour and sparkle.
5. Lab-Grown Blue Sapphire and Lab Diamond Three-Stone Ring
Elevate your OOTD with this lab-grown blue sapphire and diamond three-stone ring. It also makes a wonderful gift for someone you love, as the three-stone design beautifully represents the past, present and future of your relationship.
6. Lab-Grown Vintage-Style Blue Sapphire Halo Pendant with Milgrain Detailing
If you love that yesteryear charm, this vintage-inspired lab-grown blue sapphire pendant necklace is meant for you. The diamond halo and intricate milgrain work truly elevate this piece.
7. Lab-Grown Blue Sapphire Huggie Hoop Earrings
Looking for something trendy to pair with your everyday outfits? We suggest these gorgeous huggie hoops adorned with lab-grown blue sapphires.
Can’t wait to shop our top picks? Go ahead, your cart awaits! And for more options, do cheque out our entire collection of lab-grown blue sapphire jewellery to get your hands on rings, bracelets, pendant necklaces and earrings.
FAQs
1. How are lab-grown blue sapphires made?
Lab-grown blue sapphires are made in a controlled environment in a labouratory using two primary methods. These methods are the Melt or Flame process and the Solution process.
2. What’s the Melt or Flame process for lab-grown blue sapphires?
The Melt or Flame process involves melting aluminium oxide to form sapphire droplets.
3. What’s the Solution process for lab-grown blue sapphires?
The Solution process subjects a mineral solution to high heat and pressure, which leads to the formation of sapphire around a seed crystal.
4. How long does it take to grow a lab blue sapphire?
It typically takes around a few weeks to several months to grow a lab blue sapphire, depending on the process being used.
5. Do lab-grown blue sapphires have the same sparkle as mined blue sapphires?
Lab-grown blue sapphires certainly have the same colour and sparkle as earth-mined blue sapphires. This is because both share the same optical, physical, and chemical properties.
6. Are lab-grown blue sapphires cheaper than mined blue sapphires?
Yes, lab-grown blue sapphires are generally less expensive than mined blue sapphires. However, the price also depends on the quality and carat weight of the gemstone.
