While each gemstone has different USPs, it is their beauty and colour that often makes them truly desirable. Interestingly, these stones are rarely sold as is and are often subjected to several treatments or enhancement procedures to improve their overall quality. But what do the terms ‘treatment’ and ‘enhancement’ mean?
And Is There Any Difference Between the Two?
Not really!
According to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), “the terms ‘treatment’ and ‘enhancement’ are both used to describe any artificial process that alters the appearance, especially the colour or clarity, of any gem material.”
However, these practises do not include polishing, faceting, and shaping as their primary purpose is to enhance the value and durability of the stone.
What Are the Main Types of Gemstone Treatments?
There are several types of methods and treatments used to uplift the aesthetics of a gem. Each of them serves a different purpose and the outcome can range from improving the durability to completely removing the flaws on the stone. Some methods are quite stable and can last a long time, whereas others need to be redone every few years.
Following are some of the main types of treatments used in the jewellery industry.
1. Heat
As the name suggests, this particular treatment exposes the jewel to extremely high temperatures to enhance its clarity. It is also used to lighten, darken or change the gem’s colour. Heat treatment is one of the most commonly used methods and incorporates different temperatures to treat different gemstones.
In most cases, the result of this process is long-lasting. Some famous gemstones that usually undergo heat-treatment are as follows.
- Ruby
- Sapphire
- Amethyst
- Aquamarine
- Citrine
- Tanzanite
2. Bleaching
This treatment is often carried out on porous jewels, like the pearl, wherein a chemical is used to alter the stone’s colour. In certain cases, the gem is dyed after being bleached to completely change its hue.
Depending on the chemicals used, this treatment can drastically reduce the durability of the gem. The stone also typically requires a second impregnation treatment to strengthen it. In this particular process, the surface cracks on the gem are filled with plastic, wax, or polymer to improve its resistance to breakage.
Overall, jewels that undergo these treatments do require a lot of love and care. Additionally, over-exposure to harsh light or heat can lead to damage.
3. Cavity or Fracture-Filling
In this process, wax, glass, oil, or resin is melted and poured into the cracks of the gemstones to improve their clarity, durability, and overall appearance.
In certain rare, and often extreme cases, this treatment is also carried out to slightly increase the size of the jewel.
The longevity of the result generally depends on the materials used. Glass and wax are relatively stable and tend to last the longest. Procedures involving oil, however, need to be redone every few years. Below we’ve mentioned some gemstones that usually undergo cavity or fracture-filling.
- Emerald
- Ruby
- Diamond
- Sapphire
Parting Note
Gemstone treatment and enhancement, essentially, mean the same thing. When shopping for fine jewellery, do cheque the gemstone’s Certificate of Authenticity. This important document discloses if it has undergone any treatments or procedures; and will eventually help you make the right decision.
Also Read: Top 3 Types of Phenomena that Occur in Gemstones
