IRRADIATED DIAMONDS

All diamonds have been exposed to natural radiation over the millennia before man unearthed them, so all colored diamonds have been "irradiated."

Irradiated diamonds are genuine diamonds that exhibit an intense color change such as blue, pink, green, etc., after being exposed to a strong radiation treatment. Because colored diamonds (called "fancy" colors) are so rare and in high demand, irradiation is a laboratory process used to produce the same type of effects or similar color for a much less expensive price.

How the process works

The diamond is first exposed to strong radioactive treatment that quickly becomes inert after the treatment. Then the diamond is subjected to intense heat that affects the overall coloration.

The overall clarity and or imperfections of irradiated diamonds won't change with this process, but will usually hide or disguise certain imperfections better than when they are colorless.

Because this process has a permanent impact on the diamond, GIA is quite happy to grade irradiated diamonds and will laser inscribe the diamond to notify that the diamond has indeed been irradiated.

If you like colored "fancy" diamonds, but can't afford the price, then irradiated diamonds are a great choice. Don't forget, these are still real diamonds, and the value of the diamond is not sacrificed with this treatment, if anything it is enhanced.

True facts about irradiated diamonds

• The color will not fade; it penetrates the entire diamond.
• Irradiated diamonds are not lab created, they are natural and real diamonds.
• Although irradiated diamonds have color, they still have the same refractive index, because they are natural.
• Irradiated diamonds don't become radioactive.
• Irradiated diamonds may come in blue, green canary yellow, pink, etc.