It's no secret in the jewelry-biz that gemstones are commonly altered. They are heated, dyed, chemical-ized - you name it and it's been done to most gemstones used in fine jewelry today. The term " natural" is loosely used in the industry, and most jewelers will tell you if asked about how a gemstone has been treated. If they claim it's not been treated, then this should send up a red flag.

Now whether this is a good thing or bad thing is open to interpretation depending on how you look at it. Treated stones allow provide more affordable stones that look much nicer than untreated stones. On the other hand, some vendors may not know or provide information about whether a stone as been treaded, and of course, it would be nice to think nature is total responsible. Either way, if you want a little education about how " natural" gemstones are treated these days, take a look at this article by Wild Fish Gems: The International Jeweler UpdateSo, what are your thoughts on treated gemstones? Is it good or bad or what?