Treatments and disclosures

There are several color and clarity enhancement treatments for jade. As with any gemstone, treatments that deliver permanent enhancement are considered completely acceptable. The level of acceptability in temporary improvements ranges from okay to downright deceptive.

The most common treatment for jade is waxing. The stones are dipped in molten wax and buffed to a glossy shine. Even though the process is reversible with intense heat, it is considered the most acceptable treatment in the trade.

Other treatments include dying, bleaching and heating. These are typically used to improve lower quality stones and are for the most part temporary. There is nothing wrong with purchasing stones with these treatments as long as the jeweler tells you what has been done and what special care such jade may need. Always make sure to ask your jeweler about treatments and get that information in writing on your receipt.

Of course, if you are shopping for very expensive gems, you should have them appraised by an unbiased, professional gemologist before purchase.