Treatment

Treatment in jewelry refers to the various techniques used to enhance the appearance, durability, or value of gemstones and metals.

Part of speech: noun
Definition: In jewelry terminology, 'treatment' encompasses a broad spectrum of processes applied to gemstones and metals to augment their natural beauty, increase their resilience, or elevate their market value. These methods can vary from simple procedures like heat treatment to alter a stone's color, to more complex techniques such as irradiation, which can intensify or change the color of certain gems. For metals, treatment might include plating or coating with other metals to improve appearance and resistance to tarnish. While some treatments are almost universally applied and accepted, others may affect the perceived authenticity or value of the piece, making disclosure of such treatments important in the trade. Understanding the type and extent of treatment is crucial for both industry professionals and consumers in assessing the quality and value of jewelry items.