Are Treated Gems Real?
When entering the world of colored gemstones, you will quickly encounter the term "treatment." A treated gem is a natural stone that has undergone artificial processes to enhance its appearance or durability.
Common Treatments
- Heat Treatment: The most common and accepted enhancement. It improves color and clarity, especially in rubies, sapphires, and citrine.
- Irradiation: Exposing minerals to radiation to alter their color centers. This is how almost all blue topaz gets its signature hue.
- Fracture Filling: Using oils, resins, or glass to hide surface-reaching cracks. This is heavily utilized in emeralds.
While treatments are not inherently bad, ethical sellers must always disclose them to buyers.
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