Synthetic Rubies

Synthetic Rubies are man-made gemstones that are chemically and physically identical to natural rubies, but they are produced in a laboratory under controlled conditions rather than formed naturally in the Earth. They are made using several different methods that replicate the natural geological conditions in which rubies form, allowing for the creation of high-quality gemstones that are both more affordable and available in a wider range of colors and sizes.

How Synthetic Rubies are Made

There are several methods for producing synthetic rubies, but the most common are:

1. Flame Fusion (Verneuil Process):
   • The Verneuil process, invented by French chemist Auguste Verneuil in the late 19th century, is one of the earliest and most common methods for creating synthetic rubies.
   • In this method, powdered aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) (the primary component of ruby) is mixed with a small amount of chromium oxide (which gives rubies their red color) and melted in a flame.
   • The molten material crystallizes as it falls, forming a synthetic ruby crystal. These crystals are then cooled, cut, and polished into gemstones.
   • The Verneuil process produces rubies that are often smaller and may contain inclusions or color zoning, but it is a cost-effective method for mass-producing synthetic rubies.
2. Czochralski Method (Crystal Pulling):
   • The Czochralski method involves melting aluminum oxide in a crucible and then carefully pulling a small seed crystal from the molten material.
   • As the seed crystal is slowly pulled upward, it continues to grow into a larger ruby crystal. This method is slower and more controlled than flame fusion, and it can produce larger, higher-quality rubies with fewer inclusions.
   • Synthetic rubies created using the Czochralski method are generally of higher clarity and can be made in a wider range of sizes.
3. Flux Growth Method:
   • The flux growth method involves using a molten flux to dissolve aluminum oxide and other necessary materials. The flux creates a solution in which ruby crystals can form as the material slowly cools.
   • This method produces high-quality rubies with fewer inclusions and better color uniformity, but it is a much slower process and can be more expensive than flame fusion.
   • Flux-grown synthetic rubies are often used in high-end jewelry, as they can achieve superior clarity and color.
4. Hydrothermal Method:
   • The hydrothermal method simulates the natural growth conditions of rubies in the Earth’s crust. In this process, materials are dissolved in water at high pressure and temperature. The solution slowly cools and forms synthetic ruby crystals.
   • This method is less commonly used for rubies compared to other gemstones, but it can create high-quality rubies with excellent clarity and a more natural look.

Properties of Synthetic Rubies

Synthetic rubies are chemically identical to natural rubies, meaning they share the same physical, chemical, and optical properties. Here are the key features of synthetic rubies:

• Chemical Composition:
  Synthetic rubies are composed of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) with trace amounts of chromium (Cr), which gives the gemstone its characteristic red color. The higher the chromium content, the more intense the color.
• Hardness:
  Like natural rubies, synthetic rubies are incredibly hard, with a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale. This makes them second only to diamonds in terms of hardness, making them very durable and suitable for everyday wear in jewelry.
• Color:
  Synthetic rubies can be produced in a variety of red hues, ranging from pigeon blood red to darker, more purple-toned reds. The color depends on the specific conditions under which the ruby is grown, such as the amount of chromium added.
  • Synthetic rubies are often more color-stable than natural rubies, with more consistent color throughout the stone.
• Clarity:
  Synthetic rubies often have fewer inclusions than natural rubies. While natural rubies typically contain inclusions (often called “jardins”), synthetic rubies can be made with much higher clarity. However, depending on the method used, some inclusions may still be present.
• Refractive Index:
  The refractive index of synthetic rubies is 1.76–1.77, which is the same as natural rubies. This contributes to their brilliance and sparkle.
• Specific Gravity:
  The specific gravity of synthetic rubies is around 4.00, which is very close to that of natural rubies.
• Durability:
  Synthetic rubies are incredibly durable and can withstand everyday wear. They are resistant to scratching, tarnishing, and fading due to their high hardness and stability.

Benefits of Synthetic Rubies

1. Affordability:
   One of the primary advantages of synthetic rubies is their lower cost. Since they are grown in a lab, they are less expensive to produce than mined rubies, especially larger stones with high clarity and color.
2. Ethical and Sustainable:
   Synthetic rubies are created in a laboratory setting, which eliminates the environmental and ethical issues related to mining. Lab-grown rubies have a much lower environmental footprint, as they do not require extensive mining or the destruction of ecosystems.
3. Consistency:
   Because synthetic rubies are made in a controlled environment, they tend to have more consistent color, size, and clarity than natural rubies. This makes it easier to find the perfect ruby for a piece of jewelry.
4. No Conflict Stones:
   Synthetic rubies are not associated with the issues of conflict gemstones, which are stones mined from regions where human rights abuses and violence may be prevalent. This makes synthetic rubies a conflict-free and ethical choice.
5. High Quality and Availability:
   The controlled manufacturing process means that synthetic rubies can be produced in a variety of sizes and colors, and are available year-round, unlike natural rubies, which can be rare and subject to availability issues.

Drawbacks of Synthetic Rubies

1. Perceived Value:
   Even though synthetic rubies are chemically identical to natural rubies, many people perceive natural rubies as more valuable because they are rare and have a long history. Synthetic rubies may not hold the same cachet as their natural counterparts.
2. Resale Value:
   Synthetic rubies typically do not hold their value the way natural rubies do. Natural rubies can appreciate over time due to their rarity and demand, while synthetic rubies are generally less likely to increase in value.
3. Rarity:
   Natural rubies are rare gemstones, which adds to their value. Synthetic rubies, being mass-produced in laboratories, lack this rarity, and thus may not be seen as unique or special.
4. Market Perception:
   Some consumers may not prefer synthetic rubies because they are man-made, even though they have the same physical and chemical properties as natural rubies. The perception that synthetic stones are “artificial” or “less authentic” may deter some buyers.

Applications of Synthetic Rubies

1. Jewelry:
   Synthetic rubies are widely used in fine jewelry as an affordable alternative to natural rubies. They are commonly used in engagement rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. The consistent quality and vibrant color make synthetic rubies a popular choice for both high-end and fashion jewelry.
2. Industrial Applications:
   Synthetic rubies have industrial uses as well, especially in laser technology. Rubies are used as the active medium in certain types of lasers, particularly those that produce red laser light. This is because synthetic rubies can be made with the exact specifications needed for these applications.
3. Gemstone Substitutes:
   Synthetic rubies are sometimes used as substitutes for natural rubies, especially when natural rubies are rare or prohibitively expensive. They are also used as alternative gemstones for customers who want the look of a ruby without the higher cost.
4. Birthstone Jewelry:
   Since ruby is the birthstone for the month of July, synthetic rubies are often used in birthstone jewelry. Synthetic rubies are a great option for people who want a beautiful ruby piece at a more affordable price.

Conclusion

Synthetic rubies offer many of the same benefits as natural rubies, including vibrant color, exceptional durability, and brilliance, but at a much lower price point. They are ethically sourced, environmentally friendly, and perfect for those who want a high-quality gemstone without the ethical and environmental concerns associated with mining. While they may not carry the same prestige or value as natural rubies, they are an excellent choice for consumers seeking beauty, quality, and sustainability at a more affordable price.