Education on Sapphires

Loupe clean
This term is widely used in the gem industry to describe a sapphire that appears flawless when examined under 10 x Magnification. 

Eye clean
Also commonly used to describe a gemstone that appears free of natural inclusions when viewed with the naked eye. Essentially meaning that any inclusions are not visible without magnification.

Natural inclusions
Sapphires like many other gemstones, often contain natural inclusions that form during their geological creation. These inclusions are considered "fingerprints" of the stone, providing an insight into its unique history. Here are some common types of natural characteristics. Rutile needles, feathers or bubbles. These can occur either internally or on the surface. 
These inclusions often add character and uniqueness to the sapphire. 

Heat treatment
The heat treatment process is widely accepted in the sapphire industry. This method consists of using heat to slightly reduce the appearance of bronzing or rutile/silk. Importantly, heat treating does not change the natural elements of a sapphire. Technically sapphires have already undergone natural heating deep within the Earth during their formation. Heat treatment is basically, finishing off natures job! 


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