What is a birthstone-style gift using lab-grown coloured stones?

ZKZ Editorial TeamMain answer · Product & gemmology desk

A lab-grown stone can be a good way to give a birthstone-style gift, but it should be described as lab-grown, in equal prominence to words like gem or birthstone. Ask what the stone is, how it was made and whether it was treated afterwards.

What the sources say

Fact GIA says birthstones are a fun, popular and colourful introduction to gemstones and carry lore that is unique to each gemstone.

Fact The FTC Jewelry Guides (16 CFR 23.25) say it is deceptive to use the word birthstone, gem, gemstone or the name of a precious or semi-precious stone for a laboratory-grown stone unless it is immediately preceded with equal conspicuousness by a term such as laboratory-grown. This is a US guide.

Fact GIA says its report for laboratory-grown coloured diamonds includes an assessment of growth type and post-growth treatment, and that the stone's girdle is laser inscribed with the term Laboratory-Grown and its report number.

What to check

Our advice Ask for the stone type, the growth method and whether any treatment was applied, and ask for a report where there is one.

Our advice Check that the listing says lab-grown next to the stone name.

Our advice Compare the colour in photographs with the description. Colour on screens varies.

It depends Which stone belongs to which month varies by country and tradition, so check the list the seller uses.

Make the gift clear for the recipient

Our advice Include a card that says what the stone is and how to care for it, and keep the report or invoice for the recipient. Coloured stones differ in hardness, so ask the seller for care advice that matches the specific stone, and avoid ultrasonic cleaners unless the seller confirms they are safe.

Our advice Name the stone as lab-grown in the product description and on the gift card, so the recipient knows what she has received. Check the month and colour with the person who will give the gift if you are unsure.

Our advice Choose a simple design if the stone is the point, and add a note on how to care for it.

Uncertain We did not verify colour stability for specific lab-grown coloured stones in daily wear, so we make no promise about fading.

Related reading: Is a diamond a good April birthstone gift, and what are the lab-grown options? · Coloured Lab Grown Diamonds: Pink, Blue, Yellow and Beyond

Sources

• GIA, Birthstones
• 16 CFR 23.25, FTC Jewelry Guides: misuse of "ruby", "sapphire", "emerald", "birthstone", "gem" and similar words
• GIA, Laboratory-grown diamond services

Fact = stated by the cited source. Our advice = editorial recommendation. Uncertain / it depends = limits of what can be said in general.