Gemstones

Gamma irradiation applied to gemstones (precious and semi-precious stones) is a process carried out with the aim of accelerating, intensifying and modifying the color of gemstones according to their properties. The color change of gemstones occurs naturally, as light interacts with the elements of the gem. However, the process is slow: it takes thousands of years for the colors to change. Gamma irradiation, therefore, accelerates this process, adding commercial value to products and contributing to the development of this market. And it also has another advantage: it is possible to choose, within the possibilities of each gemstone, the intensity of the color desired for the piece.

Irradiated gemstones | Photo: Antonio Santiago