Rubies

Beware. There is a new process that improves the look of rubies. Average stones with cracks and flaws are being “enhanced” by being filled with lead glass. Doctored stones are worth about 80 percent less than natural stones. There are reports that antique and vintage rings with missing stones have been repaired using these less valuable rubies. Other heat-based methods have also been in recent years to improve a ruby’s color or fill cracks. Any process that makes a gem seem more valuable should be explained to a buyer. Lead-filled stones need special care. Lemon juice and other solvents make them turn white. Laboratory tests can reveal the presence of lead glass, so if you plan to buy or repair ruby jewelry, ask for a guarantee backed by a testing certificate.