Gemstone Enhancements

Gemstone enhancements are applied to gems to improve their appearance and durability. Some of these procedures have been used for centuries, while others are recent.  Accepted treatment methods are those that will change the colour or clarity of the gemstone permanently.

Common treatments include:

Heat: Ruby and Sapphire
Irradiation: Blue Topaz
Oiling: Emeralds
Dyeing: Onyx & Agates (blue, green & red), Turquoise
Fracture Filling: Ruby and Sapphire
Vapor Disposition: Ruby and Sapphire
Beryllium: Yellow Sapphire
Diffusion: Sapphire

Gemstone dealers should fully disclose any treatments to the buyer. Bear in mind that most gemstones sold in the marketplace today are heat-treated and that this is a perfectly legitimate practice.

If you know the facts, then you can feel safe about buying a gemstone that you will enjoy for many years to come.