Are there any treatments or enhancements that can improve crystal clarity?

Yes, there are several treatments and enhancements that can be applied to improve crystal clarity, especially in the case of natural gemstones. Here’s a detailed look at some of the common ones:

Heat Treatment

• Process: Heat treatment is one of the most widely used methods for enhancing crystal clarity. For many gemstones like sapphires, rubies, and tanzanite, they are heated to specific temperatures in a controlled environment, usually in a furnace. The heat can cause changes in the internal structure of the crystal by altering the distribution of chemical elements or by healing internal fractures or inclusions. For example, in some sapphires, heating can dissolve tiny silk-like inclusions (which are actually fine rutile needles), resulting in improved transparency and a more vivid color.
• Effect on Clarity: By reducing the visibility of inclusions or by making the crystal structure more uniform, heat treatment can significantly enhance the clarity of the gemstone. A sapphire that may have had a somewhat cloudy or included appearance before heat treatment can become much clearer and more visually appealing afterward, allowing light to pass through and refract in a better way, which in turn increases its sparkle and overall beauty.
• Limitations and Considerations: However, heat treatment is not without limitations. If the temperature or duration of heating is not carefully controlled, it can damage the crystal or cause unwanted changes in its color or other properties. Also, in the gemstone industry, it’s important to disclose whether a gemstone has undergone heat treatment as it can affect its value and authenticity perception. Some collectors or buyers who prefer untreated gemstones may be willing to pay a premium for them, while others are okay with heat-treated ones as long as they are properly disclosed.

Fracture Filling

• Process: Fracture filling is often used for gemstones that have visible cracks or fractures within them. A substance, usually a clear epoxy resin or a similar synthetic material, is carefully injected into these fractures under vacuum or pressure conditions. For instance, in emeralds, which are notorious for having internal fractures called “jardin” (French for garden, due to their appearance), fracture filling can be applied. The resin fills in the gaps and makes the fractures less visible to the naked eye.
• Effect on Clarity: This treatment can improve the apparent clarity of the gemstone by making the internal fractures blend in with the surrounding crystal structure. It gives the impression of a more solid and less flawed crystal, allowing light to pass through with less disruption. In the case of filled emeralds, the stone can look much more transparent and have a better overall appearance, which makes it more desirable for use in jewelry.
• Limitations and Considerations: The filled material may not have the same durability or optical properties as the original crystal. Over time, the filling material may discolor, crack, or become visible in a different way, especially if the gemstone is exposed to certain chemicals or extreme temperatures. Also, as with heat treatment, it’s crucial to disclose that a gemstone has been fracture filled, as it affects its market value and ethical considerations in the trade.

Laser Drilling

• Process: Laser drilling is a technique used primarily for diamonds. A high-powered laser beam is used to create tiny channels or holes in the diamond that lead to inclusions located deeper within the crystal. Once the channels are made, acids or other chemical solutions are then used to dissolve the inclusions or make them less visible. For example, if a diamond has a black carbon inclusion that is affecting its clarity, laser drilling can be employed to reach that inclusion and attempt to remove or reduce its impact.
• Effect on Clarity: This method can improve the clarity of the diamond by reducing the prominence of certain inclusions. It can make the diamond appear cleaner and more transparent when viewed from the top or other angles, enhancing its overall quality and value for jewelry purposes.
• Limitations and Considerations: Laser drilling is a delicate process and can potentially damage the diamond if not done properly. Additionally, like other treatments, it must be disclosed in the diamond’s certification or when selling it, as it can change the perception of the diamond’s authenticity and worth among consumers. There are also limitations in terms of the types of inclusions that can be effectively treated with this method, and some inclusions may still remain visible even after the procedure.

Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) and Other Coating Methods

• Process: In some cases, chemical vapor deposition or other coating techniques are used to enhance crystal clarity. For example, with certain man-made crystals or gemstone simulants, a thin layer of a material with high transparency and refractive properties can be deposited onto the surface of the crystal. This can fill in any microscopic surface irregularities and improve the way light interacts with the crystal, giving it a smoother and clearer appearance. In the production of some synthetic diamonds or other crystals, CVD can be used to add a final layer that enhances their optical qualities.
• Effect on Clarity: The coating can make the crystal look shinier and more transparent, reducing the scattering of light that might occur due to surface imperfections. It can also enhance the color or give an added sparkle to the crystal, depending on the properties of the coating material used.
• Limitations and Considerations: The durability of the coating is a concern. It may wear off over time or be damaged by abrasion, chemicals, or exposure to certain environmental conditions. Also, when dealing with gemstones, it’s important to disclose if such a coating has been applied as it can impact the perceived value and quality of the stone.

In summary, while there are various treatments and enhancements available to improve crystal clarity, each comes with its own set of advantages, limitations, and ethical considerations in the gemstone and crystal industry. Transparency in disclosing these treatments to consumers is crucial for maintaining trust and ensuring fair trade.