What Is a Treatment in a Colombian Emerald and How to Detect It
Just like many precious gemstones, Colombian emeralds often undergo processes known as treatments to enhance their appearance or durability. For those looking to purchase an authentic, high-quality emerald, understanding these treatments is essential.
At Emerald by Love, we want buyers to be well informed. That’s why we’re explaining what a treatment in a Colombian emerald is, the types of treatments that exist, how to detect them, and what tools you can use to ensure you’re buying a gem with transparency and credibility.
What Is a Treatment in a Colombian Emerald?
A treatment in a Colombian emerald is an intervention carried out to improve its appearance, durability, or strength. These procedures aim to reduce the visibility of natural inclusions, fill fractures, or enhance color.
Colombia is the world's leading producer of high-quality emeralds. Therefore, if a stone has undergone treatment, this must be clearly disclosed to each customer, as not everyone is looking for treated emeralds.
What Types of Treatments Exist for Colombian Emeralds?
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Filling with natural oils (oiling): Cedarwood oil or other colorless oils are used to disguise internal fractures and improve clarity. (This is the least aggressive and most natural method.)
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Filling with synthetic resins: Polymers or epoxy resins are used to fill deeper cracks, offering a longer-lasting effect than oil. (Known as “Perma.”)
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Reheating or thermal stabilization: Although less common in emeralds, thermal processes can be applied to stabilize color.
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Mixed impregnation: A combination of oils, resins, and dyes is used to simultaneously modify clarity and color.
Can Treatments in Colombian Emeralds Be Detected?
Yes, treatments in Colombian emeralds can be detected using specialized gemological techniques. While some treatments may go unnoticed to the naked eye, tools such as microscopes or ultraviolet light can help identify the presence of substances within the gemstone.
For precise detection, the best option is to consult a gemological laboratory for a certificate. There, a detailed report can be issued indicating whether the emerald has been treated and with what substance, ensuring an informed purchase.
Tips to Detect Treatments in Colombian Emeralds
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Inspect with a loupe or microscope: Look for bubbles, oily areas, or fractures with visible filler.
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Check gemological certificates: Make sure they include information about treatments.
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Ask the seller: An ethical jeweler should disclose if the stone has been treated.
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Be cautious with very low prices: Treated emeralds usually cost less; be wary of unrealistically cheap offers.
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Observe color and luster: A very uniform or artificial color may indicate the use of dyes or resins.
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Seek professional advice: A gemologist can help you verify authenticity and detect treatments.
Emerald by Love: Your Ally in Understanding and Detecting Treatments
At Emerald by Love, we believe transparency is as valuable as the gemstone itself. That’s why all our Colombian emeralds come with clear information about their origin, characteristics, and any treatments they may have undergone—backed by internationally recognized gemological certificates.
We also offer personalized guidance to help you identify treatments and choose with confidence. Whether you're looking for a gem with a story or a long-term investment, we’re here to help you make an informed and secure decision.
Paula A. Bonilla
Social Communicator and Journalist from Universidad Sergio Arboleda in Colombia. Passionate about constantly learning about precious gemstones and fine Colombian jewelry.
She currently works for one of Bogotá’s most important jewelry houses, Emerald by Love. This jeweler has over 40 years of experience and two physical stores in the heart of Colombia’s capital city.
