Birthstones are gemstones that are traditionally associated with the twelve birth months of the year and are available as genuine or synthetic gemstones. Gemstones are associated with each month and each precious stone has designated qualities associated with it. Birthstones have been around since ancient history, and in those days were believed to possess some magical force that could protect the owner or wearer of the stone. There are still many who believe that birthstones or gemstones have a special meaning to them. These birthstones were traditionally linked to the Zodiac. Modern birthstones are linked to calendar months, and each month has its own unique birthstone. Many people love to wear jewelry set with their birthstone, as the ancient meanings and associations with these stones still intrigue them.
What is the difference between synthetic gemstones and genuine gemstones?
The only difference is that synthetic gemstones are grown in a laboratory vs. genuine gemstones that are formed in nature. In order for a laboratory-grown gemstone to be called synthetic, it must have a genuine counterpart and must match in chemical and physical properties — i.e., crystal structure, chemical composition, hardness, etc. This is a very crucial part of the definition, and everyone looking into birthstones and gemstones should be aware of this.
Genuine gemstones have taken millions of years to form, deep within the earth. During the formation, different oxides have mixed, creating different colors within the same gemstone group (e.g., sapphires — pink, yellow, purple, blue, etc.). However, because these oxides enter in different quantities, the colors between the same gemstone (e.g., blue sapphire) can widely vary and are difficult to match in a piece of jewelry. No two genuine gemstones are identical.
The benefits of synthetic vs. genuine are that the colors in synthetic gemstones are consistent and can be easily matched. They are also more affordable than a genuine gemstone of the same size, color, and quality (e.g., ruby, sapphire, and emerald), since the colors of synthetic gemstones usually replicate a fine-quality genuine gemstone. Jewelry that includes quality synthetic gemstones can be just as beautiful as jewelry made with natural stones.
Having genuine gemstones has more appeal to some people than others. It is largely based on preference for most stones, as the price difference is not that much. Obviously, with some stones such as diamonds, having the genuine is much more expensive and more valuable to any jewelry piece.
All of our Customized Birthstone Rings are available in many sizes. Personalize your birthstone ring with engravings, birthstones, and metal.
Take a look at our other great ring collections:
Mother’s Rings,
Promise Rings,
Kids Rings,
Personalized Rings,
Stackable Rings,
Graduation Rings,
Couples Rings, and
Fashion Rings.
