Gemstones, the easy way
By Never teh BrideI’m not particularly concerned with reality. At least not where gemstones are concerned. Sure, it’s neat to possess something that’s relatively rare, but these days it’s pretty hard to tell what’s rare and what’s not in the world of gemstones. And we’re no longer savages dazzled by the blood of the sun, either. You could say I fall right into the “pro” camp where created gems are concerned.
Curious as to how diamonds are grown? Here’s a how-to from Gemesis:
The technology used to produce gem quality diamonds suitable for jewelry markets was conceived in the 1970’s by Russian scientists in Siberia, perfected in the late 1990’s at University of Florida laboratories, and production engineered at the turn of the century in Gemesis manufacturing facilities. The container in which a diamond grows is centered in the production machine and consists of a carbon source, metal catalysts and a tiny diamond seed.
Gemesis Cultured Diamonds photoApproximate pressures of 850,000 pounds per square inch and temperatures reaching over 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit are applied to this container. Under these conditions, the carbon source dissolves in the molten metal mixture and grows, atom by atom, on the diamond seed. In just over three days, the pressure and temperature are returned to normal; the container is broken and the hardened metal core is removed and immersed in acid.
And here is a rainbow of ready-to-wear (and clickable) baubles set with created gems:
February 13th, 2007 at 6:03 pm
I was surprised to receive an alert on the Gemesis and Chatham created diamonds. Where is this article published? Any bridal magazines? Martha Stewart? How can I find out more about the purchasing of these stones? Also, where did you get the info on the technology of lab createed stones- I am most impressed. Do they retail for less that actual diamonds ?
February 13th, 2007 at 8:12 pm
Hi Tinamarie…the created gems are sold to jewelers who then place them in settings. A quick Google search for Gemesis ring (or pendant or earrings) will help you find online retailers of lab stone jewelry. Loose stones can be bought through wholesalers.
Here is a fairly comprehensive article on these interesting gems.
And yes, the usually cost quite a bit less than natural gems!
May 9th, 2007 at 4:06 pm
I adore looking at gemstones and own a lot of them. However, when it came time for my engagement ring, I chose a lovely Black Hills Gold piece that could be worn with a 2mm gold band. I’m glad there are simulants and lab-grown stones for those who love the look, but can’t or don’t want to afford the prices. I love my all-gold jewelry so much that I hardly ever wear the stuff with stones. However - if I’m gonna wear a stone, it’s gonna be real!!!