To Treat or Not to Treat: That is the question!

Here at J.L.Layton Jewelry, we are constantly amazed at the beautiful diamonds we receive everyday!

We recently received a parcel of "diamonds."  The issue wasn't whether the stones were genuine diamonds or not - they tested positive as diamonds with our Presidum Gem Tester.  We were imagining the lot to contain only round cut diamonds.  We were unexpectedly surprised to find a canary yellow marquise cut diamond and a pair of pink diamonds!

We were uncertain if the diamonds were treated to attain their color or if they were naturally colored.

Diamonds can undergo different treatments to either alter the appearance of the clarity of the diamond (i.e. to make it appear more clear) or alter the color the diamond (blue, yellow, champagne, to name a few).

What difference does it make whether a diamond has been treated or not?

We've asked several jewelers their opinion on the subject.  Some are staunch "no-treated diamonds in my store, no way!"  Some primarily carry natural diamonds and occasionally carry treated diamonds.  Some make their living transforming "ugly" diamonds into prettier diamonds - kind of like plastic surgeons!

Those that are anti-treatment call the treatment "a temporary solution for a permanent problem."  [Sorry, we can't remember who coined this - let us know who you are!]  

A diamond that is treated must be handled differently because a jeweler's torch will reverse the treatment.  The diamond must be removed from a setting prior to metal working. 

Some assert that the diamond loses some of it's original hardness when fracture filled.  Thus, the diamond becomes more brittle and more susceptible to breakage.  To what extent varies.

Another thing to consider when buying a treated diamond is that diamonds may crack easier when treated.  Cracks are not considered in clarity grading.  Cracks are a separate issue.

Overall, it's a matter of personal opinion.  People enjoy diamonds in jewelry because of the way they look - sparkly and eye-catching.  If someone chooses to give the diamond a more asthetic look, why not?