Synthesis · Reviewed definition

Synthetic Gemstone

A laboratory-grown material with essentially the same chemical, crystal-structural, optical, and physical characteristics as its natural counterpart.[1]

Also known as: Synthetic Stone, Lab-Grown Gemstone, Laboratory-Grown Gemstone

Plain English

What it means

Synthetic describes laboratory origin; it does not mean the material merely looks similar.

Why it matters

The distinction is essential for accurate identification and disclosure.

What it does not tell you

Some gem materials require more precise nomenclature because composition may not perfectly match.

Evidence

References

  1. 1
    An Introduction to Synthetic Gem Materials

    Gemological Institute of America

    Open source