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A pair of deep red, heat-treated ruby earrings

An Intro to Gemstone Treatments and Enhancements

In order to maximize their appearance and wearability, gemstones are often enhanced 
with treatments based on the stone type and the desired effect. Due to the rarity 
and uniqueness of colored gemstones, most fine jewelers (including Blue Nile) 
enhance their gems using various techniques. Some of these procedures have 
been around for centuries, while others have been developed in recent years.
Shop Gemstone Jewelry

What are Enhancements?

There are many methods used to enhance a gemstone’s color, clarity and durability and maximize its beauty. Different gemstones are enhanced differently, depending on the type of gem and the end goal.
An illustration of a gemstone being treated with oiling enhancement method

WHAT'S IN THIS GUIDE

An Intro to Gemstone Treatments and Enhancements What to Look For When Buying an Enhanced Gemstone Our Colored Gemstone Enhancement Approach Common Enhancements by Gemstone

EXPLORE OTHER GUIDES

Gemstone Clarity Gemstone Color Gemstone Cut Gemstone Size

Shop Popular Gemstone Jewelry

Multi Gemstone Tennis Bracelet

Multi Gemstone Tennis Bracelet

Multi Gemstone Eternity Necklace

MULTI GEMSTONE ETERNITY  NECKLACE

3-Stone Elongated Cushion Cut Garnet and Purple Rhodolite Ring

3-STONE ELONGATED CUSHION CUT  GARNET AND PURPLE RHODOLITE  RING

Aquamarine Rope Stud Earrings

AQUAMARINE ROPE STUD EARRINGS

Orange Sapphire Tennis Bracelet

ORANGE SAPPHIRE TENNIS BRACELET

White Enamel Locket

WHITE ENAMEL LOCKET

London Blue Topaz Cushion Earrings

LONDON BLUE TOPAZ CUSHION EARRINGS

London Blue Topaz Rope Pendant

LONDON BLUE TOPAZ ROPE PENDANT

Explore Education by Category

Gemstone Buying Guide

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Gemstone Characteristics

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Gemstone Engagement Ring Guide

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Gemstones vs Diamond Engagement Rings

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Gemstone Meaning

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Pearl Buying Guide

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Birthstones

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Care and Cleaning

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Diamond Education and Guidance

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Jewelry Education

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Ring Education

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Metal Education

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Only at Blue Nile

When it comes to celebrations we strive to make your experience as
brilliant as our jewelry with the perfect pieces for every occasion.

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