Fracture-filled Diamonds:
A Word of Caution

1.  At wholesale,  fracture-filled diamonds sell for approximately 50% of the cost of a similar untreated diamond.  Unfortunately,  there are disreputable retailers who have misrepresented and sold fractured-filled stones as more valuable untreated diamonds.  At other times,  honest but uninformed jewelers have unknowingly sold treated diamonds supplied by their wholesalers.  In either case the consumer has been sold a gemstone of lesser value and quality at an inflated cost.  Prior to purchasing any costly gemstone,  it is important to have all stones independently examined and appraised.

2.  Diamonds are forever.  Unfortunately,  the current fracture filling processes may be less permanent.  Tests by independent gemological laboratories have shown that the fracture-filling material may breakdown during normal jewelry repairs and cleaning.  Other tests have shown that some fracture fillers will discolor and become cloudy after several years of exposure to sunlight.  When a treated diamond is purchased,  it is critical that any limitations or special care be fully disclosed by the seller.  In addition,  the manufacturer should fully guarantee,  in writing,  the fracture-filling process.