Most gemstones today receive some form of treatment to improve their appearance. Understanding these treatments is essential for informed purchasing and accurate valuation. This guide explains common treatments, detection methods, and value implications.
⚠️ Important:
Always request disclosure of all treatments. Many treatments affect long-term durability and value.
Always request disclosure of all treatments. Many treatments affect long-term durability and value.
Common Treatments by Gemstone Type
| Treatment | Purpose | Stability | Disclosure Required? | Value Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heat Treatment | Improves color/clarity | Permanent | Yes for some gems | 20-40% reduction from untreated |
| Fracture Filling | Hides cracks (especially in emeralds) | Temporary | Yes | 70-90% reduction |
| Lattice Diffusion | Adds surface color to sapphires | Permanent (surface) | Yes | Dramatically reduced |