As the saying goes – Diamonds are a Woman’s Best Friend, so there is no denying that women adore jewelry, especially if there are stones embedded into it. True jewelry lovers know how to look at gemstones to see if they are real or if they are the so-called simulated stones. But before you get alarmed at the prospect of ‘fake’ stones, one must know the difference between natural, simulated and laboratory gemstones in order to distinguish one from the other.

As the name implies, natural stones are derived from the earth and contains a miracle mixture of minerals and elements that make precious stones like diamonds so rare and valuable. Simulated stones are manufactured to depict the magnificence of the real stones, with the help of technology, chemistry and skilled creators. Technology like the articulating microscope, which is often used in research laboratories to study cells, tissue and blood is a helpful piece of equipment in jewelry making and gemstone simulation. The flexibility and mobility of the articulating microscope allow for the easy manipulation and visualization of very small objects. Imagine trying to place a delicate piece of gemstone onto a section of jewelry without having to strain the eyes or the back to see the piece properly. This is where the articulating microscope, with other handheld tools, comes in to make the work of the jeweler more efficient and precise. Articulating microscopes are also known to be used in the delicate vocations of watch and circuit board repair, engraving, art restoration and the creation of dental braces.

In between natural and simulated gemstones are laboratory grown gemstones. But these aren’t just mere copies of the real thing. The scientists make these stones with the same molecular components as the natural stones as much as possible. Using simulated or laboratory grown stones are widely accepted nowadays, by both manufactures and consumers alike. There are a few simple reasons why this is being done

First of all, a real diamond will cost an arm and a leg. Not many people can afford the real thing. The popularity of simulated diamonds has soared over the years, mainly because they are readily available and not too costly for the average person to purchase. It also looks as good as the real thing. The quality of laboratory and simulated gemstones can also be predetermined, allowing for the rich, deep colors of colored gemstones to be achieved. With natural stones, the colors may be difficult to define. Moreover, for jewelry enthusiasts, size matters. The bigger, the flashier, the better. This is easily done with simulated and laboratory grown gemstones. With natural stones, it is often tricky to determine the size after it has been cut. A person can also acquire several simulated pieces of jewelry for a fraction of what one single piece of jewelry with the real gemstone will cost.

Evidently, these factors will base on the personal preferences of the lucky jewelry recipient. There are those who can pull off wearing big and flashy simulated stones, while there are those who refuse to wear anything but the real thing.