"I really loved this post.  You write about this topic very well. Natural gemstones are found in nature. Laboratory-created stones, as the name implies, are made in a laboratory. These stones, which also are referred to as laboratory-grown, manufacturer-created, or synthetic, have essentially the same chemical, physical, optical, and visual properties as natural gemstones. Laboratory-created and imitation stones should be clearly identified as such. Gemstones may be measured by weight, size, or both. Carats are divided into 100 units, called points. For example, a half-carat gemstone would weigh .50 carats or 50 points. Gemstone treatments or enhancements refer to the way some gems are treated to improve their appearance or durability, or even change their color. Many gemstones are treated in some way. The effects of some treatments may lessen or change over time and some treated stones may require special care. Treatments and/or enhancements should always be disclosed by the seller."