TREATMENTS |
Treatment or enhancements to natural diamonds with the goal of improving the diamond's overall appearance are common. These treatments are acceptable and have their place in the jewellery industry, provided the consumer understands whether a particular diamond was treated and exactly what enhancement was performed on the diamond and why. Some diamond treatments are less durable than others, meaning that the appearance of the diamond may change over time.
Treated diamonds are a way for consumers to own lovely jewellery at affordable prices.
Laser Drilling This treatment is done to reduce or eliminate dark "flaws" (inclusions) in natural diamonds. A laser beam is used to drill a narrow path to the flaw. This path looks like a fine white thread starting at the surface travelling to the inclusion. The effects of the laser treatment are permanent and the diamond does not need special care. A laser-drilled diamond is an affordable alternative to paying more for a natural untreated diamond. |  |
Fracture filling Fracture filling is a treatment to improve the appearance of a natural diamond. Surface cavities or fractures which reach or break the surface of a diamond, are filled with a substance (often times a type of epoxy or resin). This treatment does not remove the cavities or fractures but makes them appear less visible. Fracture filling is not a permanent treatment since the heat of a jeweller's torch as well as ultrasonic cleaning can affect the filling used in the treatment. For example: the filling sometimes dries and therefore the cavities or fractures might reappear. Selling a fracture filled diamond requires the seller to fully disclose and explain the treatment, and any special care requirements. Selling a fracture filled, treated diamond without proper disclosure is not an acceptable jewellery trade practice. |
Image: Fracture filling leaves behind distinctive markings |
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ALTERNATIVES
MOISSANITE A durable gemstone known for its dazzling sparkle and affordability. Originally discovered in a meteorite, this rare mineral is now lab-created to meet demand. Moissanite rivals diamonds in appearance, offering exceptional fire and brilliance, making it a popular choice for fine jewellery. Its hardness and resistance to scratching make it ideal for everyday wear. Moissanite's beauty, durability, and value make it a alternate option to diamonds. | CUBIC ZIRCONIA A diamond simulant known for its striking resemblance to diamonds. Man-made and affordable, it offers brilliant sparkle and clarity, making it a widely-used alternative in jewellery. While it lacks the hardness and long-lasting durability of diamonds, cubic zirconia is an excellent choice for budget-friendly pieces that still capture a dazzling, gemstone-like appearance. Also known as CZ, they are commonly found in fashion and costume jewellery.
| SWAROVSKI CRYSTAL Renowned for its precision-cut brilliance and exceptional clarity, crafted from high-quality lead glass. Developed by the Swarovski company, these crystals are used in jewellery, accessories, and decorative items, offering a luxurious, radiant sparkle at a more affordable price than gemstones. With a wide range of colours and designs, Swarovski crystal adds elegance and glamour to any piece. Popular in high-end costume jewellery and luxury brand collaborations. |
Simulant or simulated stones are imitationsA simulant or simulated stone IS NOT a diamond but rather an imitation man-made product that resembles a diamond. A diamond imitation should not be confused with a synthetic diamond which possess essentially the same physical, chemical and optical properties of a natural diamond. An imitation or diamond simulant can be made of glass, plastic or some other compound such as zirconia oxide, better known as CZ or cubic zirconia. Simulated/imitation stones are made by man and are usually very inexpensive to manufacture. Simulant/imitation stones should not be confused with synthetic diamonds, also known as laboratory-grown diamonds. Be aware that sellers of imitation diamonds may use names that confuse consumers into believing that they are natural diamonds and not imitations. Remember if a stone is advertised as a diamond simulant or diamond alternative, it IS NOT a natural diamond nor is it a synthetic diamond. It is an imitation. Be sure to ask if the stone you are buying is a natural diamond. Remember only a natural diamond can be identified using only the word "diamond", no other description is needed. Be wary when of a name or word before or after the word "diamond". Example: Royal Diamond, Diamond Extraordinaire. Question the true identity of the stone. Ask the question "Is it a natural diamond?" The answer is a simple yes or no. | Don't be fooled by look-alikes or imitations There are many varieties of diamond look-alikes or diamond imitations. Including but not limited to moissanite, cubic zirconia and Swarovski crystal. These products are not diamonds. If you decide to buy a diamond simulant or a stone that closely resembles a natural diamond, but the stone is not a diamond, be sure you know what you are buying.
"The same as" or "Just like" Don't be fooled into believing that one product is necessarily the same |