Sapphires have long been cherished for their beauty and durability. However, not all sapphires are mined from the earth. Created sapphires, also known as synthetic sapphires, have become increasingly popular in the jewelry market. Understanding what created sapphire means is essential for consumers who are interested in these gemstones, whether for their aesthetic appeal or their more affordable price points compared to natural sapphires.
Definition and Production Process
What is a Created Sapphire?
A created sapphire is a gemstone that is manufactured in a laboratory rather than being formed naturally over millions of years. It has the same chemical composition and crystal structure as a natural sapphire, which is primarily aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). The main difference lies in the origin and the method of formation.
Production Methods
Flame Fusion: One of the most common methods is flame fusion. In this process, a powdered form of aluminum oxide is mixed with a small amount of coloring agents (depending on the desired color of the sapphire). The mixture is then placed in a high-temperature flame, usually a hydrogen-oxygen flame. The powder melts and forms a molten droplet. As more and more droplets fuse together, a synthetic sapphire crystal begins to grow. This method is relatively fast and can produce larger crystals. However, the resulting sapphires may have some characteristic inclusions and a slightly different growth pattern compared to natural sapphires.
Czochralski Method: Another technique is the Czochralski method. Here, a small seed crystal of sapphire is dipped into a molten bath of aluminum oxide. The seed crystal is slowly rotated and pulled upwards, allowing the molten material to adhere to it and form a larger crystal. This method allows for more precise control over the growth process and can produce sapphires with fewer inclusions and better optical properties. The crystals produced by this method are often used in high-quality synthetic sapphire jewelry or in industrial applications where precise optical characteristics are required.
Hydrothermal Growth: Hydrothermal growth is a more complex and slower process. It involves dissolving aluminum oxide in a superheated aqueous solution under high pressure. A seed crystal is placed in the solution, and as the solution cools and the dissolved material precipitates out, it attaches to the seed crystal and causes it to grow. This method can produce sapphires with very good clarity and color, similar to some of the finest natural sapphires.
Characteristics of Created Sapphires
Color
Created sapphires can be produced in a wide range of colors, just like natural sapphires. The most common color is blue, which is achieved by adding titanium and iron during the manufacturing process. However, they can also be made in pink, yellow, green, orange, and even colorless varieties. The color is usually very uniform throughout the stone, which can sometimes be a distinguishing factor from natural sapphires where color zoning may occur.
Clarity
In general, created sapphires can have a high level of clarity. Since they are grown in a controlled environment, the number and size of inclusions can be minimized. However, some production methods may still result in the presence of certain characteristic inclusions. For example, flame fusion sapphires may have curved striae or lines that are a result of the way the molten material solidifies. But overall, compared to many natural sapphires, they often have fewer visible inclusions, especially in the case of sapphires produced by the Czochralski or hydrothermal methods.
Cut
Created sapphires can be cut into various shapes and styles, just like natural sapphires. The cut is crucial in enhancing the stone’s beauty by maximizing its sparkle and color play. Common cuts include the round brilliant cut, oval cut, cushion cut, and emerald cut. A well-cut created sapphire will refract and reflect light in a way that makes it appear lively and attractive.
Durability
Since created sapphires have the same chemical composition as natural sapphires, they also have a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale. This means they are very durable and can withstand normal wear and tear. They can be used in a variety of jewelry settings, such as rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets, without the fear of easily getting scratched or damaged.
Advantages of Created Sapphires
Affordability
One of the main advantages of created sapphires is their cost. They are generally much less expensive than natural sapphires. This makes them accessible to a wider range of consumers who may desire the look of a sapphire but cannot afford the high price tag of a natural gemstone. For example, a large, high-quality natural sapphire may cost thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars per carat, while a created sapphire of similar size and appearance can be purchased for a fraction of that price.
Ethical and Environmental Considerations
Created sapphires are a more ethical choice for some consumers. The mining of natural sapphires can have environmental and social impacts, such as habitat destruction, water pollution, and in some cases, issues related to child labor or unethical mining practices. By choosing a created sapphire, consumers can avoid contributing to these potential problems. Additionally, the production of created sapphires has a lower carbon footprint compared to the extensive mining and transportation processes associated with natural sapphires.
Availability
Created sapphires are available in a wide variety of colors, sizes, and qualities. They can be produced in large quantities to meet the demands of the market. This means that consumers have a greater selection to choose from and are more likely to find a sapphire that exactly meets their preferences in terms of color, cut, and size. For example, if a particular shade of pink sapphire is desired, it may be easier to find a created one in that exact color compared to searching for a natural pink sapphire with the same specific hue.
Disadvantages of Created Sapphires
Perceived Value
Despite their many qualities, created sapphires often have a lower perceived value compared to natural sapphires. In the jewelry market, natural gemstones are still generally considered more prestigious and valuable. This means that if reselling jewelry with created sapphires, the return on investment is likely to be much lower than with natural sapphire jewelry. For example, a piece of antique jewelry with a natural sapphire may appreciate in value over time, while a similar piece with a created sapphire will likely not have the same potential for value increase.
Lack of Rarity
Natural sapphires are rare and their value is often associated with their scarcity. Created sapphires, on the other hand, can be produced in large numbers. This lack of rarity means that they do not hold the same allure for collectors or those who place a high premium on owning something unique. For instance, a natural sapphire from a famous mining location like Kashmir is highly sought after due to its limited availability, while a created sapphire, regardless of how beautiful it is, does not have that same cachet of rarity.
Identification Challenges
While there are methods to distinguish between created and natural sapphires, it can sometimes be difficult for the average consumer to tell the difference. Some unscrupulous sellers may try to pass off a created sapphire as a natural one, especially if the consumer is not well-informed. This can lead to situations where consumers may pay a higher price than they should for a gemstone that is not what it was represented to be. For example, a consumer might think they are purchasing a natural blue sapphire with a high value but end up with a created sapphire of much lower worth.
Identification and Authentication
Visual Inspection
Inclusions: As mentioned earlier, created sapphires may have characteristic inclusions. Flame fusion sapphires may have curved striae, while natural sapphires may have different types of inclusions such as silk (fine needle-like inclusions) or crystals. However, this requires some experience and magnification to observe properly.
Color Uniformity: Created sapphires often have a more uniform color throughout the stone, while natural sapphires may show some color zoning or variation. For example, a natural blue sapphire may have a darker blue core and a lighter blue periphery.
Instrumental Testing
Refractive Index: Both natural and created sapphires have a similar refractive index, but precise measurement can sometimes help in identification. Specialized gemological instruments can measure the refractive index, and any significant deviation from the expected range for sapphire may indicate a problem.
Spectroscopy: Spectroscopic analysis can reveal the presence of certain elements and their absorption patterns. Natural and created sapphires may have slightly different spectroscopic signatures, especially when it comes to the presence and concentration of trace elements. For example, natural sapphires may have a more complex absorption spectrum due to the variety of trace elements they pick up during their formation in the earth.
UV Fluorescence: Under ultraviolet light, natural and created sapphires may exhibit different fluorescence patterns. Some created sapphires may fluoresce more strongly or in a different color than natural sapphires. However, this test is not always conclusive as there can be variations within both natural and created sapphires.
Uses in Jewelry and Fashion
Fashion Jewelry
Created sapphires are widely used in fashion jewelry. They can be set in inexpensive metal settings like sterling silver or plated metals to create trendy and affordable pieces. For example, a pair of created sapphire stud earrings in a silver setting can add a touch of elegance to an outfit without breaking the bank. They are popular for costume jewelry that is designed to be worn for a short period or to follow a particular fashion trend.
Fine Jewelry Alternatives
In some cases, created sapphires are used as alternatives to natural sapphires in fine jewelry. They can be set in gold or platinum settings and used in engagement rings, necklaces, and bracelets. For consumers who want a sapphire look but are more concerned about the aesthetic and durability rather than the investment value, created sapphires can be a good choice. For instance, a created sapphire engagement ring can have a beautiful design and a significant presence without the high cost of a natural sapphire ring.
Design Flexibility
The availability and affordability of created sapphires allow for more design flexibility. Jewelers can use larger created sapphires or combine multiple colors and sizes of created sapphires in a single piece of jewelry. This enables the creation of more elaborate and unique designs that might not be possible or affordable with natural sapphires. For example, a necklace with a large central created sapphire surrounded by a halo of smaller created sapphires in different colors can be a stunning and one-of-a-kind piece.
Market Trends and Consumer Perception
Growing Acceptance
In recent years, there has been a growing acceptance of created sapphires in the market. As consumers become more educated about gemstones and the options available, they are more open to considering created sapphires. The increased awareness of ethical and environmental issues related to mining has also contributed to this trend. For example, younger consumers who are more conscious of sustainability are more likely to choose created sapphires for their jewelry purchases.
Market Segmentation
The market for sapphires is becoming more segmented. There is a clear distinction between the high-end market for natural sapphires, which caters to collectors, investors, and those who value the rarity and prestige of natural gemstones, and the more mass-market segment for created sapphires, which focuses on affordability and fashion. However, there is also some overlap, with some consumers choosing created sapphires for their fine jewelry needs and others using natural sapphires for more casual or fashion-forward pieces.
Branding and Marketing
Some jewelry brands are focusing on promoting created sapphires as a sustainable and stylish choice. They are using marketing strategies to highlight the advantages of created sapphires, such as their ethical production and wide range of colors. These brands are trying to change the perception of created sapphires from being a second-rate alternative to a desirable and fashionable option. For example, a brand might launch a collection of created sapphire jewelry with a focus on modern designs and sustainable materials.
Conclusion
Created sapphires offer a unique combination of qualities that make them an interesting option in the jewelry world. They have the same chemical and physical properties as natural sapphires in many ways, but with differences in origin, value, and perception. Their affordability, availability, and ethical advantages make them appealing to a wide range of consumers, especially those looking for fashion jewelry or an alternative to the high cost of natural sapphires. However, their lower perceived value and lack of rarity mean they may not be the best choice for collectors or those seeking a significant investment. Understanding what created sapphire means and being able to identify and appreciate their characteristics is crucial for making informed decisions in the jewelry market, whether as a consumer, a jeweler, or an enthusiast.
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