Lab grown gems can be created using a variety of methods. The most commonly used are the Czochralski method, the hydrothermal method, the flame fusion, the flux fusion, etc. They have different pros and cons. The best growth method is up to the prices that the consumer could pay. Here are some tips on growth methods for lab grown gems.
Czochralski pulled method
Features:
Medium growth period: 15-20 days
Large size: 10-inch diameter
Clean Clarity: Inclusions-free & fractures-free
Affordable: $10-$30 per carat
CONS: Curve growth pattern
Hydrothermal method
Features:
Long growth period: 30-60 days
Small sizes: Less than 16mm
Bad Clarity: Inclusions & fractures
Affordable: $10-30$ per carat
CONS: It may have inclusions and fractures, and sizes over 16mm aren’t available.
Flame fusion method
Features:
Very short growth period: 1 day
Small sizes: Less than 20mm
Clarity: Inclusions
Very cheap: $1-2$ per carat
CONS: Inconsistent color and curve growth pattern.
Flux fusion method
Features:
Very long growth period: 6 months-1 year
Small sizes: Less than 16mm
Clarity: with or w/o Inclusions
Very expensive: Over $300 per carat
CONS: Expensive price