Uncovering the Truth About Tanzanite Laser Drill Holes

Tanzanite Laser Drill Holes: What You Need to Know

Tanzanite is a gemstone found only in Tanzania and is prized for its deep blue-violet hue. But what happens when those beautiful stones have unsightly marks that can’t be polished out? Enter the technique of laser drilling, a process used to remove inclusions or discolorations from within the gemstone.

Laser drilling involves using a high-powered laser beam to drill microscopic holes into the stone. The holes are then filled with acid, which dissolves any unwanted materials within the stone. This process leaves behind cleaner, more desirable tanzanites.

However, not all laser drill holes are created equal. In fact, some jewelers may use this technique to create false “improvements” in tanzanites that were otherwise lower quality before treatment. It’s important to know how to identify natural versus treated stones before making a purchase.

One way to detect laser drilling is by examining the surface of the stone under magnification. Natural tanzanites typically have small pits or “birthmarks” on their surface that are unique and irregularly shaped due to their natural formation process. Treated stones may show signs of uniformity and symmetry on their surfaces where drill holes were made.

Another sign of treatment is if there are visible lines or cracks leading up to an area where a hole was drilled; these could indicate previous fractures that were removed during treatment.

It’s important for consumers to understand that while laser drilling can improve clarity and appearance of tanzanites, it does affect their value as they are no longer completely natural stones. Buyers should inquire about any treatments done on tanzanites before making a purchase and get documentation from reputable gem laboratories such as GIA (Gemological Institute of America) or AGS (American Gem Society).

In conclusion, laser drilling can be an effective tool for improving the appearance of tanzanites, but it’s important to be able to identify natural versus treated stones before making a purchase. Always buy from reputable sellers and request documentation of any treatments done on the stone. With this knowledge, you can make an informed decision when investing in this beautiful gemstone.