Treatments
Ruby Treatments
In the jewelry industry, it is assumed that rubies have been heat treated unless otherwise specified. Like most jewelry-quality rubies, Gem Nation rubies are heat-treated (and only heat treated) to enhance the gemstone's color and vibrancy.
The Gemological Institute of America and other certification authorities ACCEPT this treatment; it is permanent and will not degrade over time.
Other treatments that are available to the jewelry industry such as fracture filling (glass infilling of cavities), surface diffusion (surface coloring treatment), oiling, dyeing or waxing HAVE NOT been performed on any of our gemstones. These treatments are temporary in nature and may require future maintenance.
Heat Treatment
Ruby is heated to improve its clarity and color. At temperatures above 1700 degrees Celsius, the silk dissolves and improves the color and clarity of the stone. This treatment can turn a colorless ruby into a blue ruby. At lower temperatures, silk can be improved and the color lightened.
Some of our rubies have undergone no treatment of any kind. These rare gemstones may cost in excess of $20,000 per carat and are available on request.