Understanding Gemstone Treatments and Types: What You Need to Know Before You Buy

At Everglow Jewelry, we believe in transparency, education, and helping you make confident, informed choices about your jewelry. Whether you're selecting a custom engagement ring, a gemstone bracelet, or heirloom redesign, understanding gemstone treatments and types is key to choosing a piece you'll love for a lifetime.

Let’s explore the different gemstone categories and common enhancements so you can shop with clarity and confidence.

💎 Natural Untreated Gemstones

What it means:
These are gemstones that are formed in nature and cut and polished without any enhancements or treatments. They are the rarest and often the most valuable because they are completely natural in color and clarity.

Examples:
• Some sapphires, emeralds, and spinels
• Natural diamonds without clarity or color treatment

Why choose it:
You're getting a rare, one-of-a-kind stone with natural beauty. These are ideal for collectors or those who value purity and origin.

💎 Natural Treated Gemstones

What it means:
These are real, natural gemstones that have undergone treatments to improve their color or clarity. Treatments may include heating, irradiation, oiling, dyeing, or fracture filling.

Common Treatments:

• Heat treatment (common in rubies, sapphires, aquamarine)

  The heat treatment of gems is the most common treatment technique used on gems. Reference to heat treatment of gems is found in gemological literature dating back thousands of years. However, widespread use started in the 20th century. This treatment is usually detectable in many gems. Heat treated gems are stable and the treatment is usually permanent. The vast majority of gemstones are heated to alter their color. In ruby and sapphire the treatment is often performed to improve color and clarity.

• Oiling (used in emeralds to fill fractures)

  Oiling refers to a filling of surface reaching cracks or fissures in a gem with a colorless oil or resin, wax or other substance except glass or plastic, to improve the gemstone’s appearance. The purpose is to diminish the visibly of fractures and thus improve transparency in the stone. The treatment is usually not permanent.

• Irradiation & diffusion (used in topaz, some sapphires)

  Irradiation refers to the use of neutrons, gamma, and/or electron bombardment to alter a gemstone’s color. The irradiation stage of the process is then usually followed by a heating phase to effect the change. Blue topaz is typically produced by irradiation.

Why choose it:
They're more affordable than untreated gems and often more vibrant. As long as treatments are disclosed—like we do at Everglow Jewelry—there’s no downside if you love the look.

💎 Lab-Grown Gemstones

What it means:
Lab-grown stones are created in a laboratory using advanced technology that replicates the natural conditions under which gemstones form. They are chemically, physically, and visually identical to natural stones.

Popular lab-grown stones:

• Lab-grown diamonds

• Moissanite

• Lab-created sapphires and rubies

Why choose it:
They’re eco-friendly, conflict-free, and often more affordable. Perfect for customers who prioritize sustainability and value.

💡 At Everglow Jewelry, we specialize in custom rings with lab-grown diamonds and moissanite, ideal for ethical engagement rings without compromising beauty or brilliance.

💎 Synthetic Gemstones

What it means:
Synthetic stones are also created in a lab, but not all are identical to their natural counterparts. Some are simulants or look-alikes that imitate natural stones.

Examples:

• Cubic zirconia (CZ) is a synthetic substitute for diamonds

• Synthetic corundum (lab-made sapphire and ruby)

Why choose it:
They're very affordable and often used in fashion jewelry or statement pieces.

💎 Imitation Gemstones

What it means:
These are materials (often glass or plastic) made to look like real gemstones, but they do not share any of the same chemical or physical properties.

Examples:

• Colored glass to imitate emeralds or garnets

• Foiled-back crystals

Why choose it:
They’re budget-friendly and great for trendy pieces or casual wear, but they lack durability and long-term value.

🔍 Why Knowing the Difference Matters

When shopping for fine jewelry—especially custom designs, engagement rings, or heirloom pieces—it’s essential to understand exactly what you’re getting. The value, durability, appearance, and even emotional significance of your piece can be impacted by the type of gemstone you choose.

🌟 What You Can Expect from Everglow Jewelry

At Everglow Jewelry, we’ll walk you through all your options, from natural untreated gemstones to lab-grown diamonds, ensuring you get a piece that fits your values, style, and budget. Whether you’re looking for a custom gold ring, ethical gemstones, or a moissanite engagement ring, we provide honest guidance and high-quality craftsmanship.

We believe jewelry should be made with intention and transparency—and that starts with helping you understand what’s in your gem.

Visit us in Tampa Palms or schedule a custom design appointment to find your perfect stone.

💬 Related Services at Everglow Jewelry:

• Custom Engagement Rings

• Lab-Grown Diamond Rings

• Jewelry Appraisal

• Heirloom Jewelry Redesign

• Sustainable Jewelry Options

• Ethical Gemstone Sourcing