When you're shopping for rubies today, you'll quickly notice two very different price tags: natural rubies that cost thousands and lab-created ones that are much more affordable. This price gap often makes people wonder if the cheaper lab-created rubies are somehow "fake" or inferior.
The truth is, both types are real rubies with the same chemical makeup and stunning beauty. The main differences come down to how they're made, what they cost, and how people perceive them in the jewelry world.
What Makes a Ruby "Real"?
When gemmologists decide whether a ruby is "real," they look at what it's made of, not where it comes from. A true ruby is made of aluminum oxide and trace amounts of chromium that give that beautiful red color. It also has a specific crystal structure and behaves with light in certain ways. If a stone has all these qualities, it's a real ruby - no matter where it comes from.
It's here that individuals get mixed up: the jewelry industry uses different language that generally all refers to the same thing. "Natural rubies" develop underground in millions of years. "Lab-created rubies" or "synthetic rubies" are created in labs using equipment that mimics nature's process. Lab-created and synthetic both refer exactly to the same thing, and both are chemically identical to natural rubies.
How Are Natural Rubies Formed?
Natural rubies have one of the most amazing histories of origin among all gemstones. They need extreme heat, crushing pressure, and extremely rare conditions that rarely happen together on our planet. The process takes millions of years and requires a perfect sequence of events.
Deep Underground Conditions Start It All
Natural rubies start to form deep inside the Earth's crust where it's over 1,000 degrees hot. Pressure there is thousands of times higher than what we have up here. Rubies only form when rocks containing aluminum meet rocks containing chromium under such extreme conditions.
This is actually rare because aluminum and chromium usually mix with entirely different types of rocks. They never really meet one another, which is the reason why natural rubies are extremely rare.
Millions of Years of Slow Growth
When the right ingredients finally come together under all the pressure and heat, they gradually start forming crystals. It takes millions of years to make a mineral called corundum, both of which rubies and sapphires are a part of. It's the chromium that gets incorporated in the process, that happens so slowly, that makes rubies red.
Because everything happens so slowly, the crystals have plenty of time to grow big and develop their characteristic structure. Different conditions during the extended growth period affect the ultimate appearance of each ruby.
Natural Flaws Reveal Each Ruby's Past
The manner in which the rubies grow over all those millions of years, little things get stuck inside the crystal when it's forming. They might be little pieces of other minerals, air bubbles, or even little drops of liquid that got trapped along the way. Each ruby's environment was a little different as they formed, so each one has its own unique marks.
Some of these rubies develop silky-looking imperfections, others develop thin striations which, if cut just so, can create star patterns. You see also various tints of red at various spots on the same stone, depending on how the chromium diffused in place. These so-called "imperfections" are actually what makes each and every natural ruby individual and valuable.
How Are Lab-Created (Synthetic) Rubies Made?
Lab-grown rubies are created using advanced technology that mimics the same natural processes that form rubies within the Earth, but much more rapidly and in controlled environments. Scientists have developed several different methods of growing these gems, and with each technique, they produce real rubies chemically identical to those found in nature.
Three Main Methods Create Lab Rubies
Scientists use three primary techniques to grow rubies in laboratory settings, each with its own advantages and characteristics.
| Method | Process | Time Required | Key Features |
| Flame Fusion (Verneuil) | Powdered aluminum oxide and chromium dropped through 3,600°F flame | Few hours | Fast, cost-effective, icicle-like growth |
| Flux Growth | Ruby ingredients dissolved in special liquid, slowly cooled | Several weeks | More natural inclusions, less internal stress |
| Hydrothermal | High pressure and heated water grow crystals | Weeks to months | High quality, excellent clarity, nature-like process |
Labs Speed Up Natural Conditions
The key to lab-created rubies is how scientists replicate the exact conditions that create natural rubies, just in a fraction of the time. Here's how labs compare to nature's process:
- Temperature Control: Labs use the same high temperatures (over 1,000°F) that exist deep in Earth's crust, but can adjust them precisely instead of relying on unpredictable geological heat.
- Pressure Management: Scientists apply thousands of times normal atmospheric pressure in controlled chambers, mimicking the intense pressure found miles underground.
- Chemical Precision: Labs use the same basic ingredients - aluminum oxide and chromium - but can control the exact amounts and purity levels for consistent results.
- Time Compression: While natural rubies need millions of years under unpredictable conditions, labs create the same chemical environment in weeks or months with perfect control.
- Quality Consistency: The controlled environment means lab-created rubies often turn out cleaner than natural ones because there are no random geological events to interrupt growth.
Same Chemistry as Natural Rubies
Lab-created rubies are scientifically identical to natural rubies in every measurable way that matters for beauty and durability.
| Property | Natural Ruby | Lab-Created Ruby |
| Chemical Formula | Al₂O₃ + Chromium | Al₂O₃ + Chromium |
| Hardness | 9 on Mohs scale | 9 on Mohs scale |
| Crystal Structure | Hexagonal corundum | Hexagonal corundum |
| Optical Properties | Brilliant red shine | Brilliant red shine |
| Durability | Scratch-resistant | Scratch-resistant |
| Color Source | Chromium traces | Chromium traces |
The only real difference is in their formation history and sometimes in tiny details that gemologists can spot with special equipment. But for all practical purposes - durability, beauty, and even how they respond to heat and light - lab-created and natural rubies are essentially identical.
Lab-Created vs. Natural Rubies: What's the Difference?
Lab-created and natural rubies are basically the same gem chemically, but they're pretty different in other ways that matter when you're buying one. Things like price, how they look, and what people think about them can vary a lot between the two types.
| What We're Comparing | Natural Rubies | Lab-Created Rubies |
| Where They Come From | Formed deep in the Earth over millions of years | Made in labs in just weeks or months |
| How They Look | Usually have natural marks and color differences | Tend to be super clear and uniform in color |
| What They Cost | $1,000-$50,000+ per carat for good ones | $100-$1,000 per carat for similar quality |
| How Rare They Are | Extremely hard to find, especially big beautiful ones | Can be made whenever you need them |
| Investment Value | Often go up in value over time | Don't hold their value very well |
| Environmental Impact | Mining can damage the environment | Much more eco-friendly to make |
| Ethical Issues | Some mining involves bad working conditions | No mining means no ethical problems |
| What People Think | Traditional jewelry lovers really prize them | More popular with younger buyers |
| How Easy to Find | Limited by what nature created and what miners find | You can get exactly what you want |
Natural rubies win when you care about rarity, making money on your investment, or impressing people who love traditional jewelry. But lab-created rubies are the better choice if you want something beautiful that doesn't cost a fortune or hurt anyone in the process.
Are Lab-Created Rubies "Real" Rubies?
Yes, lab-grown rubies are bona fide rubies by all scientific and gemological standards. They have the exact same chemical composition and physical properties as naturally occurring rubies, in that they meet all the requirements that define a ruby as it rightly should be.
This is what scientists and gemologists across the globe agree on. When experts determine if a stone is a "true" ruby, they observe three things: what it's made of (aluminum oxide with chromium), how its crystals are formed, and how it reacts to light. Lab-grown rubies fulfill all these requirements since they're essentially made of the same substance as natural rubies but with the same formation. Major certification organizations like GIA view laboratory-grown rubies as natural rubies with alternative origins.
The confusion arises from the word "synthetic." In normal use, synthetic generally means artificial or fake, like synthetic leather. But in the gemstone world, synthetic just means "human-made" instead of "made in nature." A synthetic ruby is still a real ruby - it's just been cultivated in a lab instead of under the earth. Imagine ice: no matter if you make it in your freezer or find it on a frozen lake, it's still real ice.
Natural vs Lab-Created Rubies: Which Should You Choose?
Trying to decide between natural and lab-created rubies? Both have their ups and downs, and the right choice really depends on what's important to you - your budget, values, and what you're looking for in a ruby.
Natural Rubies
Pros:
- Natural rubies are really hard to find, especially big, beautiful ones, which makes them feel extra special
- Quality natural rubies usually go up in value over time and make great family heirlooms
- Every natural ruby has its own unique marks and color patterns that make it completely different from any other
- Natural rubies have been prized for thousands of years and still impress people today
- There's something magical about owning a gem that took millions of years to form naturally
Cons:
- Natural rubies can cost thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars, which puts them out of reach for most people
- Some ruby mining hurts the environment or involves unfair working conditions
- You might not be able to find exactly what you want in terms of size, color, or quality
- Most natural rubies are heated or enhanced to look better, which can affect their value
Lab-Created Rubies
Pros:
- Lab-created rubies cost way less than natural ones, so you can get a beautiful ruby without breaking the bank
- Since there's no mining involved, you don't have to worry about environmental damage or worker problems
- Labs can make rubies that are clearer and more consistent than what you'd typically find in nature
- Making rubies in labs uses much less energy and resources than mining
- You can order exactly what you want in terms of size, color, and quality
Cons:
- Lab-created rubies don't hold their value well and aren't good investments
- Some people find lab-created rubies less exciting than natural ones with geological history
- Traditional jewelry lovers and collectors sometimes think lab-created gems are inferior
- As technology gets better, lab-created rubies will probably get even cheaper
For couples considering rubies for engagement rings, they make an excellent diamond alternative with their rich color and romantic symbolism. Learn more about rubies and other stunning alternatives in our comprehensive guide to non-diamond engagement ring options.
How to Tell the Difference: Tips for Buyers
It is extremely challenging to distinguish natural and artificial rubies, even for those who work in the jewelry industry, as they are so similar. There are a few things you can attempt to verify, but only professional certification will provide you with ultimate assurance. Here is what you, as a buyer, should know.
What to Look For (But Don't Rely On)
Natural rubies will have a few imperfections like small crystals, bubbles, or needle inclusions in them because of how they were formed in the earth. They might also have slightly different shades of red throughout different parts of the stone. Lab-grown rubies will tend to look "too perfect" - very clear with far too even color throughout. But in real life, these clues are not reliable enough to make purchasing decisions on, so don't try to guess.
Why You Need a Professional Certificate
Even for professionals within the jewelry business, it is impossible to discern the difference by eye alone, so you definitely need a certificate from a well-established lab. The most highly prized certificate comes from labs like GIA (Gemological Institute of America), SSEF, or Gübelin - these are the names you need to see on your certificate. A good certificate will inform you whether your ruby is real, whether it is natural or made in a lab if it is treated, and give you all the measurements and quality details.
Red Flags to Look Out For
Steer clear of sellers that won't give you certification, laboratory certificates you've never heard of, or prices significantly lower than natural rubies. If a seller can't simply tell you whether or not a ruby is natural or lab-created, it's a massive red flag. Always request proper documentation before you buy, and if something feels too good to be true, it probably is.
How to Shop for Lab-Created Rubies with Confidence
Whether you're buying natural or lab-created rubies, smart shopping can save you money and protect you from scams. Here are the essential tips every ruby buyer needs to know.
Certificate Authentication: Your First Line of Defense
Always verify that certificates come from reputable gemological labs. The big names you can trust are GIA, SSEF, Gübelin, AGL (American Gemological Laboratories), and Lotus Gemology. These labs have strict standards and use advanced equipment to properly identify and grade rubies.
How to verify a certificate:
- Check the certificate number on the lab's official website
- Look for security features like holograms, special paper, or watermarks
- Make sure the certificate photos match your actual stone
- Verify the lab's contact information and physical address
Red flag certificates to avoid:
- Certificates from unknown or made-up sounding labs
- Generic "gemological certificates" without specific lab identification
- Certificates that look photocopied or unprofessional
- Any certificate the seller won't let you verify online
Avoiding Low-Price Traps: When Deals Are Too Good to Be True
Extremely low prices often signal problems like synthetic stones being sold as natural, treated stones without disclosure, or outright fakes. Here's how to spot pricing red flags:
Natural ruby warning signs:
- High-quality natural rubies under $500 per carat (especially over 1 carat)
- "Estate sale" or "clearance" prices that seem impossibly low
- Sellers who pressure you to "buy now" before prices go up
- Bulk pricing on supposedly rare natural rubies
Lab-created ruby warning signs:
- Lab rubies priced nearly as high as natural ones
- Sellers who won't clearly state stones are lab-created
- "Investment grade" lab-created rubies (they don't hold value)
- Fancy marketing terms hiding the lab-created nature
Building Trust with Your Seller
A trustworthy ruby seller will be transparent, knowledgeable, and willing to provide documentation. Here's what to look for:
Green flags for good sellers:
- Clearly label whether rubies are natural or lab-created
- Provide certificates from recognized labs
- Offer detailed return policies (at least 7-14 days)
- Answer technical questions about the rubies knowledgeably
- Have verifiable business addresses and contact information
- Provide references or have good online reviews
Red flags to avoid:
- Vague descriptions like "genuine ruby" without specifying origin
- High-pressure sales tactics or "limited time" offers
- Refusing to provide certificates or documentation
- No clear return policy or contact information
- Sellers who seem evasive about basic questions
- Prices that fluctuate wildly or seem inconsistent
Additional Protection Strategies
- Get a second opinion: For expensive purchases, consider having the ruby independently appraised by a certified gemologist who isn't affiliated with the seller.
- Understand treatment disclosure: Most rubies (natural and lab-created) undergo some treatment. Sellers should clearly disclose any heat treatment, fracture filling, or other enhancements.
- Know your rights: Research consumer protection laws in your area. Many regions have specific protections for jewelry purchases, including mandatory disclosure requirements.
- Document everything: Keep all certificates, receipts, and seller communications. Take detailed photos of your ruby from multiple angles.
- Start small: If you're new to buying rubies, start with smaller, less expensive stones to gain experience before making major purchases.
- Use secure payment: Pay with methods that offer buyer protection, like credit cards, rather than wire transfers or cash that can't be recovered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Are lab-created rubies as durable as natural rubies?
Absolutely yes. They both have the same hardness (9 on the Mohs scale) and durability. You can wear them daily like natural rubies, and they will be just as resistant to scratching and damage.
Q2: How do I take care of my ruby?
Care is the same for both. Clean with warm, soapy water and a soft brush, with no harsh chemicals, and store separately from other jewelry to prevent scratching. Both can handle normal wear and occasional professional cleaning.
Q3: Can I get custom jewelry made with lab-created rubies?
Yes. Lab-created rubies are actually easier to utilize in custom designs because you can order the precise size, shape, and color grade. The majority of jewelers prefer to utilize them for custom work because of their availability and quality consistency.
Q4: Will my jeweler be able to notice a difference?
Most jewelers can make educated estimations based on visual cues, but definitive identification requires lab equipment. Always insist on proper certification regardless of what your jeweler thinks they can detect.
Q5: Do laboratory-created rubies fade or discolor over time?
No, laboratory-created rubies are just as color-stable as natural rubies. The color comes from chromium in the crystal lattice, which does not fade or change under ordinary conditions.
Choose Your Perfect Lab-Created or Natural Ruby Today
Both lab-created and natural rubies are real, gorgeous gemstones - the choice just comes down to what matters most to you. If you want something rare with investment potential, go for natural rubies, but if you prefer affordable, ethical options that look just as stunning, lab-created rubies are perfect. The key is working with a trusted jeweler who'll give you proper certification so you know exactly what you're buying. Don't let anyone pressure you into thinking one type is "better" than the other - they're both real rubies, so pick the one that fits your budget, values, and style. Take your time, ask lots of questions, and choose the ruby that makes you happy.
