gemstone
Understanding Colored Gemstones
Discover the characteristics, enhancements and care behind beautiful colored gemstones.
The Beauty of Color
The beautiful color of a gemstone is its most defining characteristic. When evaluating gemstone color, three important factors should be considered: hue, tone and saturation.
Gemstone Colors
Aquamarine
Alexandrite
Emerald
Peridot
Ruby
Sapphire
Yellow Sapphire
Fancy Sapphire
Spessartite
Spinel
Tanzanite
Tourmaline
Tsavorite
Three Factors of Color
Hue
Hue describes the primary color of a gemstone and any slight additional colors present. The most valuable gemstones generally exhibit a pure color with only slight hues of other colors.
Tone
Tone represents the depth of color, ranging from colorless to black. Gemstones may be described as light, medium-light, medium, medium-dark or dark.
Saturation
Saturation refers to color purity and the degree to which a gem is free from brown or gray hues. Vivid and strong saturation generally indicates desirable color.
Identifying Marks & Clarity
Because gemstones form under unique circumstances, each individual gemstone contains a combination of trace minerals that create a unique set of identifying marks or inclusions.
Inclusions do not necessarily detract from the beauty or desirability of a colored gemstone.
When considering clarity, expectations should be measured against the standard for that particular variety of gemstone. Some stones, such as aquamarine, blue topaz and citrine, naturally have fewer inclusions, while emerald and ruby tend to have a higher rate of acceptable inclusions.
Exceptional gemstones with few or no inclusions can be available, but they may command significantly higher prices.
Colored Gemstone Enhancement
Colored gemstones undergo rigorous internal inspections by trained gemologists to ensure they meet stringent quality standards.
Due to their rarity and unique visual properties, many colored gemstones sold by fine jewelers are enhanced using techniques that have been practiced for centuries.
Diamond Enhancement Policy: Diamonds are not enhanced in any way other than normal cutting and polishing.
Heat Treatment
Heat may be applied to enhance the color and/or clarity of gemstones. The enhanced color and/or clarity of heat-treated gemstones is permanent.
Infusion
Filling gem material with oil, wax, glass, resin or another material to improve appearance.
Coating
Wax, resin or oil may be applied to the exterior of porous gemstones to improve protection, sturdiness and appearance.
Bleaching
Chemicals or other elements may be used to lighten or enhance color consistency.
Dyeing
Coloring agents are added so they permeate a gemstone to enhance or alter its color.
Irradiation
Radiation may be used to alter gemstone color, often followed by heating. The enhanced color is permanent.
New & Future Technologies
New enhancement techniques continue to be developed. Identification and disclosure of new techniques remains important for maintaining quality standards.
Basic Gemstone Care
Cleaning
After removing your gemstone jewelry, clean it according to the directions on a non-abrasive jewelry cleaner that is safe for your specific gemstone. Use a soft cloth to remove residue.
Storing
Store gemstone jewelry in a lined case or soft cloth so the gems do not touch each other or other jewelry. Gemstones can scratch softer jewelry materials.
Wear
Abrasive surfaces, harsh chemicals and sharp blows can damage gemstones. Jewelry should be the last thing you put on and the first thing you take off.
Gemstone Care & Enhancements
| Gemstone | Accepted Enhancements | Gemstone Care |
|---|---|---|
| Amethyst | Heated to alter color. | Basic Gemstone Care. |
| Aquamarine | Heated to alter color and clarity. | Basic Gemstone Care. |
| Black Onyx | Dyed. | Basic Gemstone Care. |
| Blue Topaz | Heated and/or irradiated to alter color. | Basic Gemstone Care. |
| Citrine | Heated to alter color. | Basic Gemstone Care. |
| Diamond | None. | Basic Gemstone Care. |
| Emerald | Infused to alter clarity and/or color. | Do not use ultrasonic cleaning. Avoid sudden temperature changes, chemicals, perfume, cosmetics and hairspray. |
| Garnet | None. | Avoid sudden temperature changes. |
| Opal | Coated to alter surface consistency and durability. | Do not use ultrasonic cleaning. Avoid sudden temperature changes, chemicals, perfume, cosmetics and hairspray. |
| Pearl | Bleached, dyed, polished and coated. | Do not use ultrasonic cleaning. Avoid sudden temperature changes, chemicals, perfume, cosmetics and hairspray. |
| Peridot | None. | Basic Gemstone Care. |
| Pink Tourmaline | Irradiated to alter color. | Do not use ultrasonic cleaning and avoid sudden temperature changes. |
| Rose Quartz | None. | Do not use ultrasonic cleaning. |
| Ruby |
Heated to alter color and clarity. Infused to alter color and clarity. |
Avoid household chemicals and ultrasonic cleaning. |
| Sapphire |
Heated to alter color and clarity. Infused to alter color and clarity. |
Avoid household chemicals and ultrasonic cleaning. |
| Tanzanite |
Heated to alter color and clarity. Infused to alter color and clarity. |
Do not use ultrasonic cleaning and avoid sudden temperature changes. |
Care for Your Gemstones
With proper care and attention, your gemstone jewelry can retain its beauty and be enjoyed for generations.