Are Synthetic Emeralds in Vintage Rings Real?

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by Suzanne Sachs — 5 min read

Does finding a synthetic emerald in an antique ring make the ring any less authentic? What if you discover that the green stone you thought was natural was actually created in a laboratory? Is it still an emerald? And does it change the history or value of the ring? The word “synthetic” can sound alarming when it comes to antique jewelry, but it does not automatically mean fake. Understanding what synthetic emeralds are, when they first appeared, and how they may have found their way into vintage jewelry can help you better understand the ring itself.

About Synthetic Emeralds

The word “synthetic” can have a lot of negative associations and stigma, with assumptions that artificial, lab-created, lab-grown, or manmade gemstones aren’t actually “real.” This is simply not true, however. Synthetic emeralds are a mineral form of beryl, the same as natural emeralds that formed through geologic processes deep within the Earth. Both natural and synthetic emeralds have the same basic chemical composition and crystal structure, as well as similar physical and optical properties, including a rating of 7.5–8 on the Mohs hardness scale. Both are “real” emeralds. 

This is different from imitation emeralds, which may be glass or other materials made to resemble emeralds in color and appearance but have different chemical and physical properties. Imitations may look like emeralds on the surface, but they are not emeralds and do not have the same characteristics. When looking at antique emerald rings, understanding whether the stones are natural, synthetic, or imitation can be an important part of understanding the history of the piece.

Benefits

Synthetic emeralds have a variety of benefits, depending on what qualities a buyer or collector values. In general, lab-grown emeralds are less expensive than comparable natural stones, making them an attractive option for more limited budgets. Because they are created in a laboratory rather than mined from the earth, they also avoid the direct environmental disruption associated with gemstone mining.

Lab-grown emeralds can also appear more perfect than many natural emeralds. Natural emeralds are well known for their inclusions, often referred to as, while synthetic emeralds are created under carefully controlled conditions and may have fewer visible inclusions. While some people prefer the unique character and individuality that inclusions bring to a natural emerald, others may prefer the greater clarity and consistency that can be found in synthetic emeralds.

Value

Synthetic emeralds are generally less valuable than comparable natural emeralds when the gemstones are considered on their own. In an antique or vintage ring, however, the gemstone is only one part of the piece’s overall value. Age, rarity, craftsmanship, original setting, precious metals, accompanying diamonds, and the history of the ring can all contribute significantly to its desirability and value. An antique ring featuring a synthetic emerald can still be an exceptional and valuable piece of jewelry, particularly when the stone is original to the period and part of the ring’s historic design.

Using Synthetic Emeralds in Antique Rings

What many interested buyers don’t realize is that synthetic emeralds have been used in jewelry for decades. As techniques for growing emeralds improved during the 20th century, synthetic stones offered jewelers another way to achieve the rich green color associated with natural emeralds.

When new manufacturing techniques permitted the creation of synthetic emeralds, these stones offered more consistent color and clarity than many natural emeralds, which are well known for their inclusions. Synthetic emeralds could therefore provide the distinctive green color of emerald while offering jewelers greater consistency when selecting stones for a design. Synthetic gemstones can also be found in some Art Deco engagement rings, making proper identification an important part of understanding the history of a vintage piece.

It is also possible to put a more recently manufactured synthetic emerald into an antique ring. This might be done when an original stone is lost and it is too challenging or expensive to find a suitable natural emerald as a replacement. A carefully selected synthetic emerald can give new life to an antique setting while preserving the craftsmanship and character of the original piece.

While the word “synthetic” may cause momentary concern for jewelry collectors, understanding what synthetic emeralds actually are and their place in vintage jewelry can help put these stones into perspective. An antique or vintage ring featuring a synthetic emerald can still be an exceptional and valuable piece, particularly when its age, craftsmanship, setting, and history are considered as a whole. Discover vintage emerald rings where rich color, craftsmanship, and history come together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are synthetic emeralds real emeralds?
Yes. Synthetic emeralds have the same basic chemical composition and crystal structure as natural emeralds. They are created in a laboratory rather than formed naturally in the earth and are different from imitation emeralds made from glass or other materials.

Were synthetic emeralds used in vintage jewelry?
Yes. Synthetic emeralds have been used in jewelry for decades as laboratory-growing techniques developed during the 20th century. Some vintage rings may therefore contain synthetic emeralds that are part of the history of the piece.

Does a synthetic emerald mean an antique ring isn't authentic?
No. An antique ring can still be an authentic period piece even if it contains a synthetic emerald. The stone may be original to the ring or may have been added later as a replacement. Its presence alone does not mean that the setting is a modern reproduction.

Suzanne Sachs

Suzanne has been in the jewelry industry for over 40 years, working with vintage jewelers, diamond dealers, diamond cutters, and gemologists. Suzanne started Artdecodiamonds in 2000 and understood the demand for vintage rings throughout the world. She ultimately started VintageDiamondRing.com in 2014, and understands each vintage ring is a reflection of you — your history, your relationships, your style, your elegance and is honored to have the opportunity to help you showcase your flair in a unique and exquisite way.