Ceylon Natural Gems as a company we would like to present more information about the accepted treatments to protect our customers and avoid from illegal treatments. This is just the tip of the iceberg. There are many methods of enhancing colored gemstones. However we describe the most common enhancements below. If you need any further information on colored gemstone enhancements, see the American Gem Trade Association's Gemstone Information Manual.

 

Heat Treatment

 

The application of heat to enhance the color and/or clarity of gemstones has been a common practice around the globe for centuries. It is part of the standard polishing and finishing process for many colored gemstones. As such, it is accepted by the jewelry industry and the American Gem Trade Association. The enhanced color and/or clarity of heat-treated gemstones are permanent.

 

Infusion

 

The filling of a gem material with an oil, wax, glass, resin or other material, colored or colorless, to improve appearance. This process began centuries ago by gemstone merchants who found that immersing emeralds in oil or waxes made them look clearer to the unaided eye. This practice continues today with many colored gemstones.

 

Coating

The use of wax, resin or oil applied to the exterior of a porous colored gemstone to protect the natural substance, and to improve sturdiness and appearance.

 

Bleaching

The application of chemicals or other elements to lighten or enhance color consistency.

 

Dyeing

The act of adding coloring agents so that they permeate a colored gemstone to enhance or alter color.

 

Irradiation

The alteration of a gemstone's color through the use of radiation. This is often followed by a heating process. The enhanced color of irradiated gemstones is permanent.