Are Synthetic Sapphires in Antique Rings Real?

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by Melissa Mayntz — 5 min read

Does adding a synthetic sapphire to an antique ring damage the credibility and history of the piece? What if you discover that an antique ring you love actually has synthetic sapphires instead of natural gems? Is it still an antique? Understanding synthetic sapphires and how they have been used in antique rings can help you better understand the history of antique jewelry and why these stones may be original to the piece.

About Synthetic Sapphires

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 sapphires are a mineral form of corundum, the same as natural sapphires that were formed over millions of years of geologic processes. Both types of sapphires have the same optical refraction, a rating of 9 on the Mohs hardness scale, and the same chemical and physical properties. Both are “real” sapphires.

This is different than imitation sapphires, which are cut and colored glass or similar materials made to resemble sapphires on a casual, surface level, but with very different chemical and physical properties. Imitations may be made to resemble sapphires in color and shape, but they are not precious gems and do not have the same characteristics. When looking at antique sapphire rings, understanding whether the stones are natural, synthetic, or imitation can be an important part of understanding the history of the piece.

Benefits

Synthetic sapphires have several benefits, depending on what a buyer values. Lab-grown sapphires are generally less expensive than natural stones and can offer excellent clarity and consistent color. Because they are created in controlled environments, they often have fewer inclusions than natural sapphires, although their environmental impact depends on the energy and processes used in production.

Natural sapphires, on the other hand, are valued for their individual characteristics, including subtle color variations and natural inclusions. Vintage sapphire engagement rings often feature natural sapphires set in original gold or platinum settings, reflecting the craftsmanship and jewelry styles of their era. For those who appreciate authentic vintage jewelry, these rings offer distinctive character and a connection to the past.

Value

Synthetic sapphires are generally less valuable than comparable natural sapphires 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 sapphire 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. Rather than judging the ring solely by whether its sapphire is natural or synthetic, the piece should be considered as a whole.

Using Synthetic Sapphires in Antique Rings

What many interested buyers don’t realize is that synthetic sapphires were already being incorporated into jewelry in the early 1900s. Now, more than a century later, those stones are themselves considered antiques, despite their artificial origins.

When new manufacturing techniques permitted the creation of synthetic sapphires, the process was not seen as any degradation or poor-quality substitute for natural stones, but rather a new and exciting technology that permitted highly consistent clarity, color, and size for amazing accents.This made synthetic sapphires a popular choice in Art Deco engagement rings, with their geometric designs and bold pops of color.

It is also possible to put more recently manufactured synthetic sapphires into an antique ring. This might be done when an original stone is lost and it could be too challenging or expensive to find a suitable natural stone as a replacement. Adding synthetic sapphires to refresh an antique ring could also be an easier way to add a favorite color or a traditional “something blue” to an antique engagement ring while still preserving the original flair of the antique piece.

While the word “synthetic” may cause momentary alarm for jewelry aficionados, understanding just how real synthetic sapphires truly are and their place in antique jewelry can help anyone better appreciate their beauty and distinction. Discover vintage sapphire rings where history, craftsmanship, and color come together.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Were synthetic sapphires used in vintage jewelry?
Yes. Synthetic sapphires were used in fine jewelry beginning in the early 1900s and became especially popular during the Art Deco period. Today, some of these early synthetic sapphires are antiques themselves.

Does a synthetic sapphire mean an antique ring isn't authentic?
No. An antique ring can be authentic to its period and contain synthetic sapphires that were part of the original design. Their presence does not automatically mean that a ring 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.