Laser Drilled Rubies: The Ultimate Guide
Laser Drilled Rubies: The Ultimate Guide
Rubies are one of the most valuable and coveted gemstones in the world. Known for their deep red hue, rubies have been used as a symbol of love and passion throughout history. However, not all rubies are created equal. Some rubies may appear flawless to the naked eye but could have internal flaws that compromise their durability or reduce their value. This is where laser-drilling comes into play.
Laser drilling is a technique used by gemologists to improve the appearance and quality of rubies by removing any undesirable inclusions inside them. In this post, we will explore everything you need to know about laser drilled rubies, including what they are, how they are made, their benefits and drawbacks, and much more.
What Are Laser Drilled Rubies?
Laser drilled rubies refer to natural ruby stones that undergo a treatment process called laser drilling. Laser drilling involves using high-powered lasers to drill tiny holes through the ruby stone’s surface down to its interior chambers or fractures containing unwanted inclusions.
The process creates channels within the stone that allow acid solutions or bleaching agents to reach these cracks or bubbles and dissolve them away without damaging the stone’s overall structure.
How Are Laser Drilled Rubies Made?
Laser drilling begins with identifying which inclusion(s) should be removed from a particular ruby. A trained gemologist will use high magnification tools such as microscopes or loupes to locate these imperfections accurately.
Once identified, small holes will be made at strategic points on top of these inclusions using a highly-focused laser beam directed at specific angles determined by computer software programs customized for each precious stone type.
After creating several channels into the inclusion’s chamber cavity (called “pipes”), an acidic solution is injected into those holes via syringe needles so it can corrode away any remaining impurities without affecting other areas surrounding them.
Finally, the ruby is washed with water and then heated to evaporate any remaining solution residues.
What Are the Benefits of Laser Drilled Rubies?
The most significant benefit of laser drilled rubies is that they can significantly improve a stone’s appearance by making it more transparent, brighter, and clearer. By removing inclusions, the laser drilling process enhances the ruby’s overall color quality, giving it a rich red hue that looks stunning under different light sources.
Laser drilled rubies also have increased durability since removing internal imperfections makes them less prone to breakage or chipping. This treatment process doesn’t weaken the stone’s structure but rather strengthens it while improving its visual appeal.
Furthermore, laser drilled rubies are often more affordable than their untreated counterparts as they are abundant in supply compared to high-quality natural rubies. They offer an excellent choice for those looking for beautiful gemstones on a budget without compromising quality or beauty.
What Are The Drawbacks Of Laser Drilled Rubies?
One of the main drawbacks of laser-drilling is that there may be some visible signs left on the surface after treatment. These marks appear like tiny pinpoints or holes that may be seen through magnifying lenses if closely examined. Although these blemishes are not noticeable from afar, some people prefer stones without any visible signs of treatment whatsoever.
Another disadvantage is that many jewelry buyers frown upon treated gems as they consider them “not natural” despite being genuine precious stones. This factor could limit your options when reselling your piece as you might have fewer potential buyers wanting it unless you disclose upfront whether or not your ruby has been treated before selling it.
How To Identify A Laser Drilled Ruby
Identifying laser-drilled rubies can be challenging even for experienced gemologists due to their subtle markings’ minuscule size and depth within the stone itself. However, here are some general guidelines to help identify such stones:
– Look at its price. If a ruby seems too good to be true, it probably is. Laser drilled rubies are cheaper than natural rubies, so if you’re offered one at an unreasonably low price, there’s a high chance that it has undergone treatment.
– Examine the surface of the stone with magnification. Look for tiny holes or pinpoints on the surface. These can indicate laser drilling marks.
– Check for transparency and color quality. A well-treated ruby should have enhanced color intensity and transparency as these are two of the primary reasons for using this treatment process in the first place.
Conclusion
In conclusion, laser-drilled rubies offer an excellent option for those looking to purchase beautiful gemstones without breaking their bank balances. While some may argue about their authenticity, they remain genuine precious stones that have been treated to enhance their appearance and durability.
If you’re considering buying a laser-drilled ruby piece of jewelry or already own one, remember to disclose its treatment status when selling it as full disclosure is important in maintaining your reputation as an honest seller.
As always with gemstone purchases, buy from reputable dealers who provide certificates of authenticity and allow returns if necessary. With proper care and maintenance practices like any valuable item purchased, your laser-drilled ruby will last long while retaining its stunning beauty over time!