Frequently Asked Questions:
Why not call this material Composite Ruby?
Although the extent of this treatment may be significant, there are several fundamental differences between this new treatment and the material AGL classifies as Composite Ruby. Of particular note, the glass infused into the Composite Ruby material contains lead and/or bismuth, as well as other potential elements to raise the refractive index of the glass to that of the host ruby. This makes it quite difficult to ascertain the true extent of the treatment without partially dissolving the glass. With this new treatment, it is readily visible through standard microscopy to determine the true extent of the healing and in-filling that has taken place.
Additionally, the lead-glass of Composite Ruby does not participate in the healing of fissures, and the golden color of the lead-glass further augments the color of a Composite Ruby. Neither of which is the case with this new treatment.
Lastly and perhaps most importantly, Composite Ruby carries with it certain intrinsic special care requirements that must be conveyed to bench jewelers and consumers, in order to make certain that inadvertent damage to these stones does not occur. This new ruby treatment has similar care considerations to that of the more traditionally heated rubies, which bench jewelers and consumers should already be familiar with.