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Gemstone
synthesis
In
inflationary periods throughout history, commodities
that have intrinsic value have been greatly prized.
Gold, silver, and other precious metals have such value,
because they have universal acceptance as a medium of
exchange.
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Antiques,
rare coins, works of art, and other objects may have
collector value, which implies acceptance as value objects
by a limited group of people. Gemstones, especially
diamonds, have attributes that place them in both categories. |
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The
historical record of gems indicates a strong level of general
acceptance, akin to that reserved for the precious metals.
Fashion might cause temporary rises and dips in the market
value of particular gem varieties, but gemstones in general
have proven to be time-honored means of storing value. And
few other commodities allow a person to store as much value
in as small a space.
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DIAMONDS,
GEMSTONES & CRYSTALS
FACTS & FIGURES |
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technology has enabled man to duplicate in the
laboratory many of nature's masterpieces. Gemstone
synthesis is one of the great achievements of
the 20th Century. Today one can buy man-made ruby,
emerald, sapphire, spinel, alexandrite, and other
gems, and more gem varieties are sure to be manufactured
in the future.
Gem identification and authentication has taken
on new dimensions and become quite complex, Yet
the difference in value between a natural and
synthetic gem can be enormous. For example, a
ten-carat synthetic and natural ruby might differ
in value by as much as $50,000. This sum is large
enough to make it imperative that a means of distinguishing
natural and synthetic gemstones be developed.
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All
these factors combine to produce a difficult situation
for the average gem buyer. The complexity in the
grading and evaluation of gems seems mysterious.
The intricacies of the gem trade are intimidat¬ing. |
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And
the large dollar values involved can sometimes make buying
jewelry appear to be an expedition into financially perilous
territory, fraught with hidden obstacles and traps. |
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