You’ve fallen in love with a gorgeous red gemstone—fiery, timeless, and full of personality. But now comes the tricky part of natural ruby vs synthetic ruby . And honestly… does it even matter?
In today’s jewellery world, rubies are more than just July birthstones—they’re symbols of love, courage, and bold self-expression. With the rising popularity of lab-grown rubies, more and more shoppers are asking the same question: what’s the difference, and which one is right for me?
Let’s walk you through it—clearly, simply, and sparkle-first.
Origin and Formation: From Earth or Lab?
Natural Rubies:
Natural rubies are born deep beneath the Earth’s crust over millions of years under intense heat and pressure. These corundum gemstones are mined from countries like Myanmar, Mozambique, and Sri Lanka, making each stone a tiny miracle of nature.
Lab-Grown Rubies:
Lab-grown or synthetic rubies are created in a high-tech lab using methods like flame fusion, flux growth, or hydrothermal processing. These techniques mimic the natural conditions under which rubies form—but in a controlled, much faster environment (think weeks or months vs. millions of years!).
Both are real rubies—just with different birth stories.
Chemical & Physical Properties: Same, Same (But Slightly Different)
Surprise! Lab-grown and natural rubies are chemically and physically identical. Both are made of corundum and score 9 on the Mohs hardness scale—making them extremely durable and perfect for everyday wear.
Here’s where they differ:
- Lab-grown rubies tend to be more “perfect” and inclusion-free.
- Natural rubies often have tiny imperfections (called inclusions), which give them uniqueness and character.
So, if you’re looking for perfection, labs have your back. But if you adore the beauty of nature’s quirks, go natural.
Appearance and Inclusions: Flawless or Character-Filled?
To the naked eye, both types look equally stunning—vivid red, glowing, and gorgeously radiant. But gemologists with a loupe can spot the difference:
- Natural rubies may show internal features like rutile silk, tiny mineral threads that form naturally.
- Lab-grown gemstones are often flawless or show curved growth lines—clues of their man-made journey.
If you’re a lover of one-of-a-kind beauty, natural rubies are full of those little surprises. If you want picture-perfect, go lab-grown.
Price and Value: The Budget Question
Let’s talk money:
- Natural rubies are rare and expensive—especially those with vivid colour and minimal inclusions. They’re often seen as investments.
- Lab-grown rubies are much more affordable, making luxury more accessible without compromising on beauty.
In terms of resale value, natural rubies hold their worth far better. So if long-term value matters to you, natural wins. But for a guilt-free sparkle that won’t break the bank? Lab-grown is a smart, stunning choice.
Ethical and Environmental Impact: What’s the Cost Behind the Sparkle?
Natural Rubies:
The traditional mining of natural rubies can sometimes involve unethical labour and environmental damage. While many jewellers (like us!) work only with ethically sourced stones, not all rubies on the market are conflict-free.
Lab-Grown Rubies:
No mining, no land disturbance, no human rights concerns. Lab-grown rubies are a more sustainable and ethical alternative, with a lower carbon footprint—ideal for eco-conscious buyers.
The tug of war still persists— lab grown vs natural rubies?
If you want your Ruby jewellery to reflect your values, lab-grown rubies are a clear winner on the ethics front.
Want to learn all about lab-grown rubies? Read here.
Certification & Identification: Don’t Skip This Step
No matter which ruby you choose, always ask for certification. Trusted labs like GIA, IGI, or SGL will clearly state whether the gem is natural or lab-grown.
Trained gemologists can distinguish between the two by examining inclusions, growth patterns, and fluorescence. But as a buyer, your safest bet is a lab report—especially when investing in natural rubies.
At Angara, every ruby—lab-grown or natural—comes with complete certification. Because trust is as important as shine.
Which Should YOU Choose?
Here’s the truth: both lab-grown and natural rubies are real. They both sparkle, shine, and carry the same ruby essence. Your choice depends on what you value most.
Choose a natural ruby jewellery if:
- You love the rarity and romance of Earth-formed stones
- You’re collecting heirloom-quality jewellery
- Long-term investment and resale value matter to you
Choose a lab-grown ruby if:
- You want an affordable, ethical, and stunning alternative
- You’re buying jewellery for style and self-expression
- You prefer flawless beauty without the premium price
Two Rubies, One Beautiful Truth
Natural or lab-grown—rubies are all about passion, power, and elegance. While they differ in origin, price, and ethical footprint, both have their place in the modern jewellery box.
Whether you’re shopping for a meaningful birthday gift, a self-love splurge, or your next favourite ring—let your priorities guide you. Because at the end of the day, the best ruby is the one that speaks to you.
Explore Certified Ruby Jewellery at Angara
Looking for that perfect ruby? Whether it’s natural or lab-grown, every piece at Angara is:
✓ BIS Hallmarked
✓ Certified for Authenticity
✓ 100% Customisable
✓ Covered by Free Insured Shipping & Easy Returns
✓ Backed by Lifetime Exchange & Buyback
Let your ruby reflect your story—with sparkle and soul.
FAQs
1. Can you tell the difference between lab-grown and natural rubies?
To the naked eye, lab-grown and natural rubies often look identical. However, under magnification, gemologists can spot differences in inclusions and growth patterns. Lab-grown rubies typically have fewer imperfections and may show curved growth lines, while natural rubies often contain natural inclusions like rutile silk.
2. Do lab-grown rubies hold value?
Lab-grown rubies are more affordable upfront but generally don’t hold the same resale or investment value as natural rubies. Natural rubies, especially high-quality ones, are rarer and more sought after, making them a better option for long-term value.
3. Are lab-grown rubies real?
Yes, lab-grown rubies are real rubies. They are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural rubies. The only difference is their origin—lab-grown rubies are created in controlled environments, while natural ones form deep within the Earth over millions of years.
