Synthetic Sapphire [Sapphire Introduction Course 8]

The first artificially synthesized corundum was produced by the French chemist Auguste Verneuil (1856-1913) using the flame melting method in 1902. It was not a very complicated process, and a trained gemologist could easily distinguish sapphires synthesized by the flame melting method from natural sapphires. In the 1960s, sapphires synthesized by the fusion-assisted growth method entered the market, as well as the "floating zone method" and hydrothermal method afterwards; these methods of synthesizing corundum were not so easy to identify, and advanced jewelry appraisal agencies were required to conduct tests to distinguish synthetic products from natural gems.

Synthetic corundum can come in a variety of colors, and buyers need special attention when encountering very pure gems.

5.1 carat and 2.4 carat synthetic corundum in the color of lotus sapphire. Photo: SSEF