Gemstone treatment
Smoke Treatment
Body color becomes gray to black, increasing contrast with play-of-color. Color may be shallow or concentrated near cracks and porous areas.
01
What to look for
Body color becomes gray to black, increasing contrast with play-of-color. Color may be shallow or concentrated near cracks and porous areas.
02
What it means
Smoke treatment darkens opal body color to imitate black opal or improve contrast. It must be disclosed.
03
Expert move
Hydrophane opals can absorb liquids and smoke. Inspect broken edges or drill holes for uneven darkening.