The Chatham Story In 1938 after many years of research and determination, Carroll F. Chatham, a San Francisco scientist, discovered the secret of growing emeralds. By duplicating conditions deep within the earth, the proper temperature, pressure and chemical properties, he was able to actually grow gems, which possess the same physical and optical properties of mined gems, in his laboratory. A discovery so amazing, it remains a carefully guarded family secret. In the years since that historic discovery, Chatham Created Gems, now under the direction of Carroll's son Tom, has perfected methods of growing rubies, sapphires, alexandrites, and opals. For over 60 years Chatham has been the leader in the art and science of Created Gems. Continued research into new and better methods is a top priority at Chatham Created Gems. Frequently Asked Questions about Chatham® Created Gems Do Chatham® Created gems and natural gems have the same properties? Yes. To legally use the term "created" the emerald, ruby, sapphire, alexandrite and opal must be the same chemically, optically, and physically as their natural counterparts. The only difference: one came from the ground and the other from the laboratory. Are Chatham® Gemstones "synthetic"? Yes and No. If to you synthetic means fake or imitation, then no. However, the official gemological definition of a synthetic emerald or other created gem REQUIRES the stone to be identical to the natural one. However, consumers rarely understand this archaic definition. How does Chatham® "create" gemstones in the laboratory? Natural gemstones are crystals formed deep in the earth by heat and pressure. Chatham® creates a similar heat and pressure environment using the same natural elements and even some of the natural gemstones as well, nature does the rest over a 10 to 14 month growth cycle. Chatham® "creates" the opportunity for crystal growth to occur much as the flower grower does in a hot house. Is a Chatham® Created Gemstone like a cultured pearl? Yes. Just a man provides the natural "seeds" and controlled environment to help grow a cultured pearl, Chatham® provides the natural elements and controlled environment to grow crystals. The culturing of a pearl starts on a round ball surgically implanted in the oyster's mantel tissue. In the case of the emerald, for example, the growth starts with a thin slice of natural emerald. This "seed" of natural gem is later removed, whereas in the pearl the "seed" forms the interior of the pearl. Does Chatham® put in the inclusions? No. Chatham® strives for the highest quality, but since nature is responsible for the crystal growth some inclusions may be present and serve to add to the natural in color and clarity. In fact, Chatham® is so proud of their quality, they guarantee all of their gems for life! Is the color of any Chatham® Created Gemstone ever enhanced or treated in any way? Absolutely NOT. While treatments to natural gems are the normtoday, Chatham® has not followed this trend. All Chatham® gemstones are natural in color and clarity.
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