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inborn gemstones are found in nature. Laboratory-created stones, as the name implies, are made in a laboratory.
These stones, which also are referred to as laboratory-grown, [name of manufacturer]-created, or synthetic,
have essentially the same chemical, physical and visual asset as natural gemstones. Laboratory- created
stones do not have the rarity of naturally colored stones and they are less expensive than naturally mined stones.
By contrast, imitation stones look like natural stones in appearance only, and may be glass, plastic, or less costly
stones. Laboratory-created and imitation stones should be clearly identified as such.
Gemstones may be gaged by weight, size, or both. The basic unit for weighing gemstones is the carat, which is equal to one-fifth (1/5th) of a gram. Carats are divided into 100 units, called points. For example, a half-carat gemstone would weigh .50 carats or 50 points. When gemstones are measured by dimensions, the size is expressed in millimeters (for example, 7x5 millimeters). Gemstone treatments or enhancements refer to the way some gems are treated to ameliorate their appearance or durability, or even change their color. Many gemstones are treated in some way. The effects of some treatments may lessen or change over time and some treated stones may require special care. Some enhancements also affect the value of a stone, when measured against a comparable untreated stone. Jewelers should tell you whether the gemstone you're considering has been treated when: the treatment is not permanent; the treated stone requires special care; or the treatment significantly affects the value of the gemstone. Some common treatments that you may be told about and their effects include:
FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION FOR THE CONSUMER April 2001 |