Gemstone Glossary

Verneuil, Auguste

1856-1913, French chemist who in 1902 published the flame-fusion process for the mass-production of cheap synthetic gemstones. Up to today large quantities of synthetic gems, mostly rubies, sapphires and spinels, are produced by this method. Contrary to much more expensive synthetic gems produced by other methods, Verneuil stones in most cases are relatively easy to identify for gem experts.


typically shaped "Verneuil-boule"