The Fine Art of Enhancement: Unveiling the Techniques of Coating Gemstones
A coated gemstone refers to a gemstone that has undergone a treatment process where a thin layer of material is applied to its surface. This layer, known as a coating, is added to enhance or alter the gemstone's appearance, colour, optical properties, or durability. The coating material can vary, including metals, metal oxides, or other compounds.
The process of coating gemstones involves carefully applying the coating material onto the surface of the stone. Depending on the desired effect, different techniques such as vacuum deposition, electroplating, or sputtering may be used. These techniques ensure a thin and uniform layer of coating adheres to the gemstone's surface.
We recently had coated gemstones on the show with guest designer Mark Smith, who made some beautiful pieces with AB coated gemstones. Interested? Watch the show here: Watch Show
Coatings serve various purposes and can provide a range of effects on gemstones:
Colour Enhancement:
Coatings can introduce vibrant and unique colours to gemstones. By applying specific materials, such as metal oxides, gemstones can display iridescent or multi-coloured effects that may not occur naturally in the stone. This adds depth and visual interest, making the gemstone more captivating.
Clarity Enhancement:
Gemstones with visible flaws, inclusions, or imperfections can be coated to minimize their visibility. The coating material fills in tiny cracks, fractures, or cavities, creating a smoother surface that reduces light scattering. This enhances the gemstone's clarity, giving it a cleaner and more desirable appearance.
Optical Effects:
Certain coatings can manipulate how light interacts with the gemstone, resulting in unique optical effects. For example, coatings may produce a cat's eye effect (chatoyancy), where a band of light appears to move across the gemstone's surface, or a star effect (asterism), where a star-like pattern emerges when light reflects off the gemstone.
Durability and Protection:
In some cases, coatings provide a protective layer to the gemstone. This layer can shield the stone from scratches, abrasions, or chemical reactions, preserving its beauty and extending its lifespan. Coatings can also enhance the gemstone's resistance to fading caused by exposure to light.
It is essential to note that coated gemstones may require specific care and maintenance to ensure their longevity. The coatings are typically delicate and can be susceptible to damage or wear over time. Harsh chemicals, heat, ultrasonic cleaning, or prolonged exposure to sunlight may cause the coating to fade, peel, or scratch. Therefore, it is advisable to handle coated gemstones with care, clean them using mild methods, and store them separately from other jewellery items to prevent damage.
Coated gemstones offer an opportunity to enhance the natural beauty of gemstones, create unique effects, and improve their overall appeal. However, it is important to understand that coatings are not permanent and require proper care to maintain their appearance and protect the underlying gemstone.
What are AB Coated Gemstones?
AB coated gemstones, often referred to as Aurora Borealis coated gemstones, are a specific type of coated gemstones that exhibit a unique iridescent effect reminiscent of the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). The AB coating creates a captivating play of colours on the gemstone's surface, producing a stunning rainbow-like effect.
The AB coating technique involves applying a thin metallic coating, typically made of multiple layers of metal oxides, onto the surface of the gemstone. The precise composition and layering of these metal oxides create a prism-like effect that diffracts light, resulting in a spectrum of colours visible to the viewer.
The AB coating is commonly used on various gemstones, including glass beads, crystals, and rhinestones, to enhance their visual appeal and mimic the iridescent beauty found in natural gemstones. It can be applied to gemstones of different shapes, sizes, and colours, allowing for a wide range of design possibilities.
The colours produced by AB coated gemstones can vary depending on the specific materials used and the angle of light reflection. Common hues include shades of blue, green, purple, pink, and gold. The intensity and brilliance of the colours can also vary, adding depth and dimension to the gemstone's appearance.
AB coated gemstones are widely used in jewellery-making, particularly in costume jewellery, where their vibrant and eye-catching effect adds a touch of elegance and glamour to various designs. They are often used in necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and other accessories to create a striking visual impact.
It's important to note that like other coated gemstones, AB coated gemstones require gentle handling and care to preserve their beauty. Harsh chemicals, abrasive materials, or excessive heat should be avoided to prevent damage to the coating. By treating them with care and proper maintenance, the enchanting beauty of AB coated gemstones can be enjoyed for years to come.
We hope you enjoyed learning about coated gemstones today! We have a few amazing coated gemstone pieces which you can shop here:
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Until next time jewellery makers!
- JM
