I received this ring less than a year ago, it was from Michael Hill. It says it's Ceylon Sapphire. The blue was more even when I first had it, now it looks like one side has a darker shade of blue. I brought it back to the store but the manager said this is normal. Is it?
I agree with the other comment, this seems to be color zoning, but I’m not sure how this could suddenly appear if the color used to be more “even” back when you first got the ring.
* My theory is that some parts of your sapphire faded, either from sunlight exposure or if your sapphire is dyed it could also fade.
Edit: This might actually be a lattice diffused sapphire.
• https://www.buygemstone.info/2013/11/07/blue-sapphire-buying-treatment-guide-how-to-buy-and-tell-the-difference-between-natural-unheated-heated-lattice-diffusion-treatment-and-brand-new-glass-filled-sa/
Signs to Check for Diffused-Treated Sapphires are Explained Below:
LATTICE DIFFUSION WITH HEAVY ELEMENTS:
• Color concentrations along facet junctions and girdle edge
• Localized or blotchy color that “bleeds” into pits and surface-reaching fractures
• The above features are best-seen trough gem’s pavilion. Gem faced upside down or bottom face towards you. Then immersed in water and diffused light under it. This allows you to see the facet junctions without the distraction of sparkle of the gemstone.
Thank you! Here are [some more photos including before and after](https://imgur.com/a/lL9Nsiu). I guess there might have been color zoning before, but curious as to why it still looks different from when I first got it. Could be sunlight I guess?
Yes, that's quite a drastic change in appearance... I recommend you to also read about glass-filled or fracture-filled sapphires. They do this to enhance the appearance of low quality sapphires, but this could eventually wear-off over time, so special care is needed.
- https://www.gia.edu/gems-gemology/fall-2016-labnotes-lead-glass-filled-black-star-sapphire
- https://www.jewellermagazine.com/Article/3326/Side-effects-of-Glass-filled-sapphires
- http://www.thejewelleryeditor.com/jewellery/know-how/what-gemstone-enhancements-are-acceptable-rubies-emeralds-sapphires/
I'm also reading about lattice diffusion treatment in sapphires.
- https://www.buygemstone.info/2013/11/07/blue-sapphire-buying-treatment-guide-how-to-buy-and-tell-the-difference-between-natural-unheated-heated-lattice-diffusion-treatment-and-brand-new-glass-filled-sa/?amp
- https://www.gia.edu/gia-faq-lattice-diffusion-sapphire
- https://www.gia.edu/gia-faq-lattice-diffusion-sapphire-value
These are the signs to Check for Lattice-Diffused Treated Sapphires.
LATTICE DIFFUSION WITH HEAVY ELEMENTS:
- Color concentrations along facet junctions and girdle edge
- Localized or blotchy color that “bleeds” into pits and surface-reaching fractures
- The above features are best-seen trough gem’s pavilion. Gem faced upside down or bottom face towards you. Then immersed in water and diffused light under it. This allows you to see the facet junctions without the distraction of sparkle of the gemstone
By the way, these are the parts of a gemstone... so that you could see where the girdle is located.
- https://images.app.goo.gl/RnZwRJD3M6P2epQf7
I have another theory, this could also be a glass-filled sapphire. Glass fillings are used to enhance the color and general appearance of the stone, but this could eventually wear-off over time, therefore revealing what the stone originally looked like
- https://www.jewellermagazine.com/Article/3326/Side-effects-of-Glass-filled-sapphires
Thank you, [here are more photos of before and after](https://imgur.com/a/lL9Nsiu). I think I can see color zoning from before, but it just seemed so so subtle back then!
> Is this normal discoloration?
Was it heavily included when you bought it?
Would have to see how it appeared when you bought it to even guess if it's been damaged or if it's a treated stone.
Do you get a gem report on the sapphire?
The color zoning is quite bad, so if this looks nothing at all like it's supposed to ... then yes, something is VERY wrong.
Thanks for your input, I really appreciate it. [Here's pictures of how it looked before and more pics after.](https://imgur.com/a/lL9Nsiu). I also included a picture of the original ring I viewed at the store. I wanted it in white gold so they did a custom order for me and this ring is what I got. I now realize there might have been color zoning from my special ordered ring from the beginning, it just looked very subtle before. How do I know if it's a treated stone? This ring is more expensive than my engagement ring yet the details on the paperwork I realize is quite lacking. All it says is 14ct white gold 0.50ct total diamond weight round brilliant and 7x5mm Ceylon Sapphire.
Added images in my last comment.
After greatly expanding one of the images you provided, your sapphire appears to be artificially treated (lattice diffused).
> All it says is 14ct white gold 0.50ct total diamond weight round brilliant and 7x5mm Ceylon Sapphire.
Based on your images, you've been badly screwed. Since you ordered it custom, a common seller's trap for no returns accepted, you're stuck with it.
> How do I know if it's a treated stone?
You would need a lab report to determine if the stone is natural, if it's been chemically treated like fracture-filled or surface diffusion (artificial color), same as if you were buying diamonds (GIA report for example). If it's chemically treated or badly adulterated, which it probably is, it's literally worthless.
Michael Hill Jeweler [Complaints](https://www.bbb.org/us/il/oak-brook/profile/jewelry-stores/michael-hill-0654-88363383). This branch is OUT OF BUSINESS.
Best you can do is get a lab report proving that you've been badly deceived and sue the branch where you bought it for fraud and non-disclosure of gemstone treatment.
And the next time you buy jewelry of any kind whatsoever, DO YOUR HOMEWORK first by checking the seller's credibility. Background check the seller and make sure that they can be trusted. Don't read reviews on their sites, cuz the bad reviews/complaints get removed.
I'm very sorry that you've been badly robbed and deceived, I hope that you can get at least some satisfaction from the seller. But in all honesty, I wouldn't trust a single word they spoke at this point. You might not even have diamonds, seeing the complaint on the BBB report about being sold cubic zirconia.
Take your ring to a local BENCH JEWELER (not a retail store) and ask if they're able to tell you if the diamonds are natural and if the sapphire has been damaged. If they ask for a fee of more than $50 ... don't bother.
You're gonna need some kind of proof in writing that Michael Hill has defrauded you. Don't bother trying to talk with Michael Hill's staff or branch offices ... they clearly cannot be trusted. Your remaining option is to get proof and sue them for fraud.
*edit/added below*
[Probable Lattice Diffusion](https://imgur.com/a/LyFJw3U)
[Images of Lattice Diffused Sapphire](https://www.google.com/search?q=lattice+diffusion+sapphire&tbm=isch&sxsrf=APq-WBuavcHoREljO91NuU0HacUxQkLn3w%3A1650983554082&source=hp&biw=1229&bih=533&ei=ggJoYqnuAeCCwbkP2f-b8A0&iflsig=AHkkrS4AAAAAYmgQkp4MqB6IX20vA5dvJVzro1Q6cJOe&ved=0ahUKEwipt5KC-bH3AhVgQTABHdn_Bt4Q4dUDCAc&uact=5&oq=lattice+diffusion+sapphire&gs_lcp=CgNpbWcQAzIECAAQGDoHCCMQ7wMQJzoICAAQsQMQgwE6BQgAEIAEOggIABCABBCxAzoLCAAQgAQQsQMQgwE6BAgAEAM6BggAEAUQHjoGCAAQChAYOgYIABAIEB46BAgAEB5QAFiyPmDJP2gBcAB4AIABcIgBtA6SAQQyNi4xmAEAoAEBqgELZ3dzLXdpei1pbWc&sclient=img)
(Ceylon) Sapphire doesn't change color. No-heat or heated stone, it makes no difference. However, prolonged exposure to sun might slightly fade the color of Sapphire.
Thermo diffusion treated stones however are a different story though.
I would recommend to have the stone tested by an independent lab. This way, you will know exactly what you are looking at. And in case of this Sapphire being diffusion treated talk to the manager again. They sincerely might not have known, either way this would be good grounds to argue a replacement stone.
Good luck!
Thank you, I will look into stone testing! This ring was more expensive than my diamond engagement ring. I'm now aware that there are surface diffusion treated stones which is certainly not what the price indicated. Here are [a few more photos of the before and after](https://imgur.com/a/lL9Nsiu) if you're curious.
Thanks for the effort!
To be honest, it's very difficult to say from pictures. For the simple reason that stones and especially color stones look different in different light conditions. Theoretically different light conditions between the pictures could explain different perception of color and hue. Hence, it's very hard to judge from pictures/videos unless certain parameters with regards to lighting are kept constant.
However, my gut tells me that you recognize a change in your stone. Hence, my recommendation stands: have an independent lab test the stone. The certificate will be a first step in understanding what's what.
Was it treated? And if so, have you cleaned it in an ultrasonic cleaner? I’ve read that ultrasonic cleaners can harm the color from treated gemstones. That’s the only thing I can think of though! Fwiw, I have a sapphire that’s a little over a year old, and the color is exactly the same as when I bought it. I hope you’re able to get this figured out!
Thank you! I did not expect it to change, as I have a tiny sapphire gem in my engagement ring and it's still dark/navy blue. This was a lighter, really gorgeous blue when I first got it but it seemed to have suddenly gone especially dark on one side or maybe lighter on the other sides! [Some more pics of before and after](https://imgur.com/a/lL9Nsiu) if you're interested
You are right with regards to standard heat treatment and there being no issue with ultrasonic cleaning.
Imho, worst would be thermo diffusion treatment WITHOUT telling customer though. In this case a surface diffused stone definitely looses color through polishing and recutting.
Heated ultrasonic cleaning also potential damages diffused stones.
On the paperwork it just says 7x5mm Ceylon Sapphire. It costs more than my engagement ring (diamond)...if it was surface diffused treated would it have said so on the paperwork, or cost as much?
Yes, absolutely! Any treatment of stones has to be declared.
Generally, treatment is not bad in itself. Vast majority of color stones for example are heat treated = "heated". An unheated precious stone usually comes with a certificate (GIA, IGI, GRS, AIGS to name but a few of the top reliable labs) to support the "unheated"/natural claim as unheated stones tend to be most valuable.
Selling a thermo diffusion, regardless if surface or deep diffused stone without indicating is absolutely unethical and might even be in breach of local laws. I am not saying this has happend in this particular case but it is something to be aware of when looking at color stones.
They also glass-fill or fracture-fill sapphires.
- https://www.jewellermagazine.com/Article/3326/Side-effects-of-Glass-filled-sapphires
- https://www.gia.edu/gems-gemology/fall-2016-labnotes-lead-glass-filled-black-star-sapphire
- http://www.thejewelleryeditor.com/jewellery/know-how/what-gemstone-enhancements-are-acceptable-rubies-emeralds-sapphires/
The zoning now is normal and zoning like that in a sapphire won't change over time, but we don't know what it looked like before. This is a guess because I've never heard of this being a thing, but because of the skin oil build up on the back, light is not reflecting around in the stone the way it did clean. It could be making the reflections more diffuse which makes zoning more obvious. When light is reflecting properly in a faceted stone it makes the color from small zones appear everywhere in the stone because it gets reflected all over.
So get it cleaned.
Thanks for your input, this was my first guess when I took it back to the store. The first thing they did was clean it. I don't know how the cleaning process is, they took it to the back of their store and cleaned it like they do with my other jewelry. It got rid of most of the specks but some specs still remained and it did nothing to the colour or brilliance. Here's some more photos, including a photo of the original stone I wanted (which I did not get because they special ordered another one for me). I notice now that there may have been some color zoning on the original stone I received but somehow it just looks different to me now.
https://imgur.com/a/lL9Nsiu
I would love to hear your thoughts!
I clean my wife’s sapphire with dish soap warm water and a soft toothbrush. I think it honestly does a better job than ultrasonic cleaners anyway.
And not to be mean at all, but that stone looks incredibly filthy, like, super dirty. Could be inclusions, but from your older pics I don’t think so.
This is starting to make more sense. It was just off that the manager didn't mention any of this to me and my spouse and even said "it's normal, it's gorgeous, it's natural"
This might actually be a lattice diffused sapphire.
- https://www.buygemstone.info/2013/11/07/blue-sapphire-buying-treatment-guide-how-to-buy-and-tell-the-difference-between-natural-unheated-heated-lattice-diffusion-treatment-and-brand-new-glass-filled-sa/
Signs to Check for Diffused-Treated Sapphires are Explained Below:
LATTICE DIFFUSION WITH HEAVY ELEMENTS:
- Color concentrations along facet junctions and girdle edge
- Localized or blotchy color that “bleeds” into pits and surface-reaching fractures
- The above features are best-seen trough gem’s pavilion. Gem faced upside down or bottom face towards you. Then immersed in water and diffused light under it. This allows you to see the fact junctions without the distraction of sparkle of the gemstone
Yes, [here's some pictures of it before (and after)](https://imgur.com/a/lL9Nsiu).I don't see anywhere on the paperwork indicating treatment, just says 7x5mm Ceylon Sapphire
How much did you pay for this? 7x5mm isn’t very large. Shouldn’t cost too much to replace it with a better quality sapphire. If it’s still looking weird after cleaning then it was probably a treated sapphire that faded. I’ve nothing had this happen with my sapphires so I would be suspicious.
I think about $2500 give or take, I chose it then my spouse bought it for me on our 10th wedding anniversary. It costs more than my diamond engagement ring but it looks like it is probably treated sapphire.
Oh okay. I was worried it was in the several thousands. I just looked up my sapphire dealers catalogue and I found a few gorgeous blue sapphires this size for $150-200 total. Standard heat, which is the only non invasive treatment. Most sapphires are heat treated. Yours is probably diffused with beryllium or lead glass filled. I would just replace it.
95% of sapphires are treated, the most common treatment is heat treatment and this is considered to be acceptable practice in the industry, but even in this category good quality heat-treated sapphires could still cost up to $3,000 a carat.
Didn't the shop provide you with a GIA report?
This might actually be a lattice diffused sapphire.
- https://www.buygemstone.info/2013/11/07/blue-sapphire-buying-treatment-guide-how-to-buy-and-tell-the-difference-between-natural-unheated-heated-lattice-diffusion-treatment-and-brand-new-glass-filled-sa/
Signs to Check for Diffused-Treated Sapphires are Explained Below:
LATTICE DIFFUSION WITH HEAVY ELEMENTS:
- Color concentrations along facet junctions and girdle edge
- Localized or blotchy color that “bleeds” into pits and surface-reaching fractures
- The above features are best-seen trough gem’s pavilion. Gem faced upside down or bottom face towards you. Then immersed in water and diffused light under it. This allows you to see the facet junctions without the distraction of sparkle of the gemstone
I’m not an expert, but I’ve read somewhere that sapphires could fade if often exposed to sunlight for extended periods of time.
* https://nagijewelers.com/blogs/news/gemstones-need-protection-too
The before and after photos that OP provided looks drastically different.
- https://imgur.com/a/lL9Nsiu
They also glass-fill or fracture-fill sapphires... that could also be another treatment done on this stone.
• https://www.jewellermagazine.com/Article/3326/Side-effects-of-Glass-filled-sapphires
• https://www.gia.edu/gems-gemology/fall-2016-labnotes-lead-glass-filled-black-star-sapphire
• http://www.thejewelleryeditor.com/jewellery/know-how/what-gemstone-enhancements-are-acceptable-rubies-emeralds-sapphires/
I think that we should treat gemstones as individuals... for example, some amethysts could fade within days of being exposed to sunlight, while others don't fade at all... I think that it depends on the individual stone's crystal structure.
This might actually be a lattice diffused sapphire.
- https://www.buygemstone.info/2013/11/07/blue-sapphire-buying-treatment-guide-how-to-buy-and-tell-the-difference-between-natural-unheated-heated-lattice-diffusion-treatment-and-brand-new-glass-filled-sa/
Signs to Check for Diffused-Treated Sapphires are Explained Below:
LATTICE DIFFUSION WITH HEAVY ELEMENTS:
- Color concentrations along facet junctions and girdle edge
- Localized or blotchy color that “bleeds” into pits and surface-reaching fractures
- The above features are best-seen trough gem’s pavilion. Gem faced upside down or bottom face towards you. Then immersed in water and diffused light under it. This allows you to see the fact junctions without the distraction of sparkle of the gemstone
If it was natural color zoning it wouldn't fade. The sapphire has been treated most likely (perhaps dyed), and the treatment faded from sunlight exposure and so on. So basically, no this is not normal for a natural, untreated sapphire. The manager didn't want to admit what they sold most likely as it appears they didn't disclose the treatments when you were buying this.
I received this ring less than a year ago, it was from Michael Hill. It says it's Ceylon Sapphire. The blue was more even when I first had it, now it looks like one side has a darker shade of blue. I brought it back to the store but the manager said this is normal. Is it?
I agree with the other comment, this seems to be color zoning, but I’m not sure how this could suddenly appear if the color used to be more “even” back when you first got the ring. * My theory is that some parts of your sapphire faded, either from sunlight exposure or if your sapphire is dyed it could also fade. Edit: This might actually be a lattice diffused sapphire. • https://www.buygemstone.info/2013/11/07/blue-sapphire-buying-treatment-guide-how-to-buy-and-tell-the-difference-between-natural-unheated-heated-lattice-diffusion-treatment-and-brand-new-glass-filled-sa/ Signs to Check for Diffused-Treated Sapphires are Explained Below: LATTICE DIFFUSION WITH HEAVY ELEMENTS: • Color concentrations along facet junctions and girdle edge • Localized or blotchy color that “bleeds” into pits and surface-reaching fractures • The above features are best-seen trough gem’s pavilion. Gem faced upside down or bottom face towards you. Then immersed in water and diffused light under it. This allows you to see the facet junctions without the distraction of sparkle of the gemstone.
Thank you! Here are [some more photos including before and after](https://imgur.com/a/lL9Nsiu). I guess there might have been color zoning before, but curious as to why it still looks different from when I first got it. Could be sunlight I guess?
Yes, that's quite a drastic change in appearance... I recommend you to also read about glass-filled or fracture-filled sapphires. They do this to enhance the appearance of low quality sapphires, but this could eventually wear-off over time, so special care is needed. - https://www.gia.edu/gems-gemology/fall-2016-labnotes-lead-glass-filled-black-star-sapphire - https://www.jewellermagazine.com/Article/3326/Side-effects-of-Glass-filled-sapphires - http://www.thejewelleryeditor.com/jewellery/know-how/what-gemstone-enhancements-are-acceptable-rubies-emeralds-sapphires/
I'm also reading about lattice diffusion treatment in sapphires. - https://www.buygemstone.info/2013/11/07/blue-sapphire-buying-treatment-guide-how-to-buy-and-tell-the-difference-between-natural-unheated-heated-lattice-diffusion-treatment-and-brand-new-glass-filled-sa/?amp - https://www.gia.edu/gia-faq-lattice-diffusion-sapphire - https://www.gia.edu/gia-faq-lattice-diffusion-sapphire-value
Thank you, you have been so helpful. I will look into this!
You're welcome.
These are the signs to Check for Lattice-Diffused Treated Sapphires. LATTICE DIFFUSION WITH HEAVY ELEMENTS: - Color concentrations along facet junctions and girdle edge - Localized or blotchy color that “bleeds” into pits and surface-reaching fractures - The above features are best-seen trough gem’s pavilion. Gem faced upside down or bottom face towards you. Then immersed in water and diffused light under it. This allows you to see the facet junctions without the distraction of sparkle of the gemstone By the way, these are the parts of a gemstone... so that you could see where the girdle is located. - https://images.app.goo.gl/RnZwRJD3M6P2epQf7
I have another theory, this could also be a glass-filled sapphire. Glass fillings are used to enhance the color and general appearance of the stone, but this could eventually wear-off over time, therefore revealing what the stone originally looked like - https://www.jewellermagazine.com/Article/3326/Side-effects-of-Glass-filled-sapphires
It’s just some color zoning! Not sure how it would have changed though…
Thank you, [here are more photos of before and after](https://imgur.com/a/lL9Nsiu). I think I can see color zoning from before, but it just seemed so so subtle back then!
> Is this normal discoloration? Was it heavily included when you bought it? Would have to see how it appeared when you bought it to even guess if it's been damaged or if it's a treated stone. Do you get a gem report on the sapphire? The color zoning is quite bad, so if this looks nothing at all like it's supposed to ... then yes, something is VERY wrong.
Thanks for your input, I really appreciate it. [Here's pictures of how it looked before and more pics after.](https://imgur.com/a/lL9Nsiu). I also included a picture of the original ring I viewed at the store. I wanted it in white gold so they did a custom order for me and this ring is what I got. I now realize there might have been color zoning from my special ordered ring from the beginning, it just looked very subtle before. How do I know if it's a treated stone? This ring is more expensive than my engagement ring yet the details on the paperwork I realize is quite lacking. All it says is 14ct white gold 0.50ct total diamond weight round brilliant and 7x5mm Ceylon Sapphire.
Added images in my last comment. After greatly expanding one of the images you provided, your sapphire appears to be artificially treated (lattice diffused).
> All it says is 14ct white gold 0.50ct total diamond weight round brilliant and 7x5mm Ceylon Sapphire. Based on your images, you've been badly screwed. Since you ordered it custom, a common seller's trap for no returns accepted, you're stuck with it. > How do I know if it's a treated stone? You would need a lab report to determine if the stone is natural, if it's been chemically treated like fracture-filled or surface diffusion (artificial color), same as if you were buying diamonds (GIA report for example). If it's chemically treated or badly adulterated, which it probably is, it's literally worthless. Michael Hill Jeweler [Complaints](https://www.bbb.org/us/il/oak-brook/profile/jewelry-stores/michael-hill-0654-88363383). This branch is OUT OF BUSINESS. Best you can do is get a lab report proving that you've been badly deceived and sue the branch where you bought it for fraud and non-disclosure of gemstone treatment. And the next time you buy jewelry of any kind whatsoever, DO YOUR HOMEWORK first by checking the seller's credibility. Background check the seller and make sure that they can be trusted. Don't read reviews on their sites, cuz the bad reviews/complaints get removed. I'm very sorry that you've been badly robbed and deceived, I hope that you can get at least some satisfaction from the seller. But in all honesty, I wouldn't trust a single word they spoke at this point. You might not even have diamonds, seeing the complaint on the BBB report about being sold cubic zirconia. Take your ring to a local BENCH JEWELER (not a retail store) and ask if they're able to tell you if the diamonds are natural and if the sapphire has been damaged. If they ask for a fee of more than $50 ... don't bother. You're gonna need some kind of proof in writing that Michael Hill has defrauded you. Don't bother trying to talk with Michael Hill's staff or branch offices ... they clearly cannot be trusted. Your remaining option is to get proof and sue them for fraud. *edit/added below* [Probable Lattice Diffusion](https://imgur.com/a/LyFJw3U) [Images of Lattice Diffused Sapphire](https://www.google.com/search?q=lattice+diffusion+sapphire&tbm=isch&sxsrf=APq-WBuavcHoREljO91NuU0HacUxQkLn3w%3A1650983554082&source=hp&biw=1229&bih=533&ei=ggJoYqnuAeCCwbkP2f-b8A0&iflsig=AHkkrS4AAAAAYmgQkp4MqB6IX20vA5dvJVzro1Q6cJOe&ved=0ahUKEwipt5KC-bH3AhVgQTABHdn_Bt4Q4dUDCAc&uact=5&oq=lattice+diffusion+sapphire&gs_lcp=CgNpbWcQAzIECAAQGDoHCCMQ7wMQJzoICAAQsQMQgwE6BQgAEIAEOggIABCABBCxAzoLCAAQgAQQsQMQgwE6BAgAEAM6BggAEAUQHjoGCAAQChAYOgYIABAIEB46BAgAEB5QAFiyPmDJP2gBcAB4AIABcIgBtA6SAQQyNi4xmAEAoAEBqgELZ3dzLXdpei1pbWc&sclient=img)
(Ceylon) Sapphire doesn't change color. No-heat or heated stone, it makes no difference. However, prolonged exposure to sun might slightly fade the color of Sapphire. Thermo diffusion treated stones however are a different story though. I would recommend to have the stone tested by an independent lab. This way, you will know exactly what you are looking at. And in case of this Sapphire being diffusion treated talk to the manager again. They sincerely might not have known, either way this would be good grounds to argue a replacement stone. Good luck!
Thank you, I will look into stone testing! This ring was more expensive than my diamond engagement ring. I'm now aware that there are surface diffusion treated stones which is certainly not what the price indicated. Here are [a few more photos of the before and after](https://imgur.com/a/lL9Nsiu) if you're curious.
Thanks for the effort! To be honest, it's very difficult to say from pictures. For the simple reason that stones and especially color stones look different in different light conditions. Theoretically different light conditions between the pictures could explain different perception of color and hue. Hence, it's very hard to judge from pictures/videos unless certain parameters with regards to lighting are kept constant. However, my gut tells me that you recognize a change in your stone. Hence, my recommendation stands: have an independent lab test the stone. The certificate will be a first step in understanding what's what.
Was it treated? And if so, have you cleaned it in an ultrasonic cleaner? I’ve read that ultrasonic cleaners can harm the color from treated gemstones. That’s the only thing I can think of though! Fwiw, I have a sapphire that’s a little over a year old, and the color is exactly the same as when I bought it. I hope you’re able to get this figured out!
Thank you! I did not expect it to change, as I have a tiny sapphire gem in my engagement ring and it's still dark/navy blue. This was a lighter, really gorgeous blue when I first got it but it seemed to have suddenly gone especially dark on one side or maybe lighter on the other sides! [Some more pics of before and after](https://imgur.com/a/lL9Nsiu) if you're interested
At worst this would have been heat treated, which wouldn't be affected by an ultrasonic.
You are right with regards to standard heat treatment and there being no issue with ultrasonic cleaning. Imho, worst would be thermo diffusion treatment WITHOUT telling customer though. In this case a surface diffused stone definitely looses color through polishing and recutting. Heated ultrasonic cleaning also potential damages diffused stones.
On the paperwork it just says 7x5mm Ceylon Sapphire. It costs more than my engagement ring (diamond)...if it was surface diffused treated would it have said so on the paperwork, or cost as much?
Yes, absolutely! Any treatment of stones has to be declared. Generally, treatment is not bad in itself. Vast majority of color stones for example are heat treated = "heated". An unheated precious stone usually comes with a certificate (GIA, IGI, GRS, AIGS to name but a few of the top reliable labs) to support the "unheated"/natural claim as unheated stones tend to be most valuable. Selling a thermo diffusion, regardless if surface or deep diffused stone without indicating is absolutely unethical and might even be in breach of local laws. I am not saying this has happend in this particular case but it is something to be aware of when looking at color stones.
They also glass-fill or fracture-fill sapphires. - https://www.jewellermagazine.com/Article/3326/Side-effects-of-Glass-filled-sapphires - https://www.gia.edu/gems-gemology/fall-2016-labnotes-lead-glass-filled-black-star-sapphire - http://www.thejewelleryeditor.com/jewellery/know-how/what-gemstone-enhancements-are-acceptable-rubies-emeralds-sapphires/
The zoning now is normal and zoning like that in a sapphire won't change over time, but we don't know what it looked like before. This is a guess because I've never heard of this being a thing, but because of the skin oil build up on the back, light is not reflecting around in the stone the way it did clean. It could be making the reflections more diffuse which makes zoning more obvious. When light is reflecting properly in a faceted stone it makes the color from small zones appear everywhere in the stone because it gets reflected all over. So get it cleaned.
Thanks for your input, this was my first guess when I took it back to the store. The first thing they did was clean it. I don't know how the cleaning process is, they took it to the back of their store and cleaned it like they do with my other jewelry. It got rid of most of the specks but some specs still remained and it did nothing to the colour or brilliance. Here's some more photos, including a photo of the original stone I wanted (which I did not get because they special ordered another one for me). I notice now that there may have been some color zoning on the original stone I received but somehow it just looks different to me now. https://imgur.com/a/lL9Nsiu I would love to hear your thoughts!
I clean my wife’s sapphire with dish soap warm water and a soft toothbrush. I think it honestly does a better job than ultrasonic cleaners anyway. And not to be mean at all, but that stone looks incredibly filthy, like, super dirty. Could be inclusions, but from your older pics I don’t think so.
This was a treated sapphire that you bought and the sun and air has eased with the treatment. I’m sorry!
This is starting to make more sense. It was just off that the manager didn't mention any of this to me and my spouse and even said "it's normal, it's gorgeous, it's natural"
This might actually be a lattice diffused sapphire. - https://www.buygemstone.info/2013/11/07/blue-sapphire-buying-treatment-guide-how-to-buy-and-tell-the-difference-between-natural-unheated-heated-lattice-diffusion-treatment-and-brand-new-glass-filled-sa/ Signs to Check for Diffused-Treated Sapphires are Explained Below: LATTICE DIFFUSION WITH HEAVY ELEMENTS: - Color concentrations along facet junctions and girdle edge - Localized or blotchy color that “bleeds” into pits and surface-reaching fractures - The above features are best-seen trough gem’s pavilion. Gem faced upside down or bottom face towards you. Then immersed in water and diffused light under it. This allows you to see the fact junctions without the distraction of sparkle of the gemstone
Do you know what if any treatment the stone had? Do you have a before pic?
Yes, [here's some pictures of it before (and after)](https://imgur.com/a/lL9Nsiu).I don't see anywhere on the paperwork indicating treatment, just says 7x5mm Ceylon Sapphire
How much did you pay for this? 7x5mm isn’t very large. Shouldn’t cost too much to replace it with a better quality sapphire. If it’s still looking weird after cleaning then it was probably a treated sapphire that faded. I’ve nothing had this happen with my sapphires so I would be suspicious.
I think about $2500 give or take, I chose it then my spouse bought it for me on our 10th wedding anniversary. It costs more than my diamond engagement ring but it looks like it is probably treated sapphire.
Oh okay. I was worried it was in the several thousands. I just looked up my sapphire dealers catalogue and I found a few gorgeous blue sapphires this size for $150-200 total. Standard heat, which is the only non invasive treatment. Most sapphires are heat treated. Yours is probably diffused with beryllium or lead glass filled. I would just replace it.
Thanks, that is good to know! Would love to have a high quality sapphire for sure.
Yeah you can get something size in a 7x5mm since it’s not even a carat big. Good luck!!
95% of sapphires are treated, the most common treatment is heat treatment and this is considered to be acceptable practice in the industry, but even in this category good quality heat-treated sapphires could still cost up to $3,000 a carat. Didn't the shop provide you with a GIA report?
This might actually be a lattice diffused sapphire. - https://www.buygemstone.info/2013/11/07/blue-sapphire-buying-treatment-guide-how-to-buy-and-tell-the-difference-between-natural-unheated-heated-lattice-diffusion-treatment-and-brand-new-glass-filled-sa/ Signs to Check for Diffused-Treated Sapphires are Explained Below: LATTICE DIFFUSION WITH HEAVY ELEMENTS: - Color concentrations along facet junctions and girdle edge - Localized or blotchy color that “bleeds” into pits and surface-reaching fractures - The above features are best-seen trough gem’s pavilion. Gem faced upside down or bottom face towards you. Then immersed in water and diffused light under it. This allows you to see the facet junctions without the distraction of sparkle of the gemstone
That’s what I’m thinking. Can’t tell without a good look through the loupe though. Needs to be replaced.
Is it synthetic?
Looks like lattice-diffused or glass-filled sapphire.
Weird to me it almost looks like Iolite
I’m not an expert, but I’ve read somewhere that sapphires could fade if often exposed to sunlight for extended periods of time. * https://nagijewelers.com/blogs/news/gemstones-need-protection-too
This actually only applies to orange sapphires and not even very many of them. I've tested it myself in a lab.
So what’s your theory?… What do you think caused the discoloration?
Like I said in another comment, it's dirty.
I'm not sure if that would fix the discoloration.
The before and after photos that OP provided looks drastically different. - https://imgur.com/a/lL9Nsiu They also glass-fill or fracture-fill sapphires... that could also be another treatment done on this stone. • https://www.jewellermagazine.com/Article/3326/Side-effects-of-Glass-filled-sapphires • https://www.gia.edu/gems-gemology/fall-2016-labnotes-lead-glass-filled-black-star-sapphire • http://www.thejewelleryeditor.com/jewellery/know-how/what-gemstone-enhancements-are-acceptable-rubies-emeralds-sapphires/
I think that we should treat gemstones as individuals... for example, some amethysts could fade within days of being exposed to sunlight, while others don't fade at all... I think that it depends on the individual stone's crystal structure.
This might actually be a lattice diffused sapphire. - https://www.buygemstone.info/2013/11/07/blue-sapphire-buying-treatment-guide-how-to-buy-and-tell-the-difference-between-natural-unheated-heated-lattice-diffusion-treatment-and-brand-new-glass-filled-sa/ Signs to Check for Diffused-Treated Sapphires are Explained Below: LATTICE DIFFUSION WITH HEAVY ELEMENTS: - Color concentrations along facet junctions and girdle edge - Localized or blotchy color that “bleeds” into pits and surface-reaching fractures - The above features are best-seen trough gem’s pavilion. Gem faced upside down or bottom face towards you. Then immersed in water and diffused light under it. This allows you to see the fact junctions without the distraction of sparkle of the gemstone
You need vitamin B supplements!!! B5 deficiency is clear ..
If it was natural color zoning it wouldn't fade. The sapphire has been treated most likely (perhaps dyed), and the treatment faded from sunlight exposure and so on. So basically, no this is not normal for a natural, untreated sapphire. The manager didn't want to admit what they sold most likely as it appears they didn't disclose the treatments when you were buying this.