The Controversial Case Of The Glass Filled Ruby

The Glass Filled Ruby has been a controversial topic in the gemstone world for years. The debate centers around the question of whether or not these rubies, filled with lead glass, are genuine gems. While some claim that these stones are not authentic, others argue that they offer a cost-effective alternative to natural rubies. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the Glass Filled Ruby and examine its history, the controversy surrounding it, and why it’s so highly debated.

A Bit Of History

The practice of gemstone enhancement has been around for centuries, and lead glass filled rubies are no exception. It is thought that the first example of a lead glass filled ruby was found in India over 300 years ago, although the exact details of this first discovery remain a mystery.

In the 1970s, the development of hydrothermal emerald saw a huge increase in the use of lead glass filling on rubies. Hydrothermal emeralds were created using high-temperature and high-pressure techniques to modify the physical properties of natural emeralds, giving them a more vibrant colour and increased transparency. This technique was then adapted for use on rubies, with the introduction of lead glass filling to improve clarity and colour saturation.

The Process

When it comes to improving the clarity and color of a ruby, there are many different techniques that can be employed. One of the most popular is hydrothermal emerald filling. This process involves using heat and pressure to fill the stone with a lead glass solution. The heat and pressure cause the solution to melt and fill any inclusions or cavities inside the stone, improving its clarity and color. This method has been used for centuries, and is still commonly used today.

This process is relatively simple and straightforward. The gemstone is heated up to a certain temperature and then a mixture of lead oxide and borax is injected into the cavity. After this, the pressure is increased, causing the solution to melt and fill any cracks or inclusions inside the stone. The process must be carefully monitored, however, as excessive heat can cause the ruby to become brittle or even crack.

Once the process is complete, the gemstone is cooled down to room temperature, allowing the lead glass to solidify. The ruby will now appear much clearer and brighter than before, with any inclusions or cavities filled. It should be noted, however, that this process does not increase the value of the ruby.

Lead Glass Filling – Pros And Cons

Lead glass filling is one of the most controversial methods used to enhance the appearance of rubies. On the one hand, it can give the stone a much brighter and more attractive colour, but on the other, it has been known to have negative impacts.

However, not everyone believes that this process is a good thing. Firstly, lead glass filling can mask any imperfections or inclusions in the stone, making it difficult to accurately assess its true quality. Secondly, the process is not permanent and over time the glass may become discoloured or start to leach out of the ruby. This could significantly reduce the value of the stone.

Finally, some people believe that hydrothermal emeralds are a more ethical option for enhancing rubies as they don’t involve any chemicals or potential health hazards associated with lead glass filling. Hydrothermal emeralds are created in a lab setting where liquid heated solutions are used to create a man-made emerald. Although these stones cannot be considered natural, they can provide an ethical way to enhance a ruby’s appearance.

The Final Result

Once a glass filled ruby has been treated, the stone will have a darker and more saturated color. It will be more visually appealing and may have some properties similar to those of a hydrothermal emerald. However, it is important to remember that it is not as durable as a natural ruby and its clarity can be compromised with time. In addition, it cannot be detected by a diamond tester, making it difficult to determine its authenticity. Additionally, it cannot be resold as a natural ruby and, in some countries, it is considered an illegal practice. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the implications of such a treatment and be certain of what you are purchasing.

Other Methods Used To Improve Rubies

In addition to lead glass filling, there are other ways to improve the look and clarity of rubies. One popular method is the use of hydrothermal emeralds. This involves placing a ruby in a sealed vessel with a superheated solution of water and minerals. As the heated solution passes over the ruby, it deposits a layer of new material, enhancing the color and clarity of the stone. Hydrothermal emeralds are a popular way to enhance the quality of rubies and are often used to improve the look of rubies with inclusions or fractures. The process can be repeated multiple times to achieve the desired result.