Introduction to Lab-Grown Sapphires
Sapphires are primarily composed of the mineral corundum (aluminium oxide). Known for their remarkable hardness (a 9 on the Mohs scale) and vibrant colours, sapphires have been prized throughout history. Unlike diamonds, corundum lacks cleavage planes, making sapphires less prone to cracking and more resistant to impacts. This toughness, or tenacity, makes them an excellent choice for everyday jewellery.
Lab grown sapphires are produced in controlled environments that replicate the natural formation process. These lab grown gems have the same chemical composition, crystal structure, and physical properties as their mined counterparts, offering a sustainable and ethical alternative without compromising on quality or beauty.
Creation Process
One common method for creating lab grown sapphires is the Czochralski process. Here, aluminium oxide is melted using radio waves. A rod with a seed crystal is then inserted into the molten mixture. As the rod slowly rotates and is pulled upwards, a column of sapphire crystal forms. This process can produce up to four inches of crystal per hour and allows for precise control over the growth, resulting in high-quality sapphires. Although more expensive than other methods, it ensures the production of superior gemstones.
Properties
Lab grown sapphires share the same key properties as mined sapphires:
- Chemical Composition: Al2O3 (Aluminium Oxide)
- Hardness: 9 on the Mohs scale
- Refractive Index: 1.76 - 1.77
- Specific Gravity: 3.95 - 4.03
At Cullen Jewellery, our lab grown sapphires are:
- Clarity: Eye clean
- Origin: Lab grown
- Colours Available: Blue, pink, purple, and red
The colour of sapphires is influenced by trace elements:
- Blue: Iron and titanium
- Pink: Chromium
- Purple: Chromium, iron, and titanium
- Red: Chromium
Advantages of Lab-Grown Sapphires
Lab grown sapphires offer several benefits that make them a popular choice not only for engagement rings but earrings and pendants.
Lab grown sapphires are more affordable than mined sapphires. They also don’t come with the ethical concerns associated with sapphires mined from the earth. As they are created in a controlled environment, you can also have a high-quality stone with fewer inclusions and consistent colour.
Grading
Every lab grown sapphire at Cullen Jewellery is meticulously checked by our in-house experts to ensure it meets the highest quality standards.
Care and Maintenance
Lab grown sapphires are durable and suitable for everyday wear. To maintain their beauty, you’ll want to clean your ring using warm soapy water, ultrasonic cleaners, or steam cleaners. Keep your lab grown sapphire jewellery separately, or in a dedicated pouch to avoid scratches from harder gemstones like diamonds.
Lab grown sapphires represent a modern, ethical choice for stunning, high-quality fine jewellery. They embody the perfect blend of beauty, durability, and responsibility. At Cullen Jewellery, we are proud to offer these exceptional gems to our clients, ensuring that every piece of jewellery we create is something you can feel good about wearing. Explore a lab grown sapphire engagement ring today.