Gemstone Coatings
PVD, or physical vapor deposition, is a method of coating one material with another using vacum electricity, and various gas`s. The transfer is done on a molecular level, and when done properly, is quite durable. It its used extensivley in manufacturing to give metals different properties such as resistance to wear, or friction. In gemstone enhancment, the oxides of whatever metal is being used is deposited permanently on the stones being coated. Titanium seems to be the metal of choice, but it is being done with other metals such as platinium and gold. The process of manipulating the various factors is able to create any color desired, so a white quartz can look like a fine london blue topaz, or a beautiful emerald. The most well know stone is Mystic Topaz, which is a white topaz coated with titanium, and which sparkles with all the colors of the rainbow. There is now available Mystic Quartz which has all the same features at a much lower price. Coated gemstones are very durable, but require some extra care that most natural stone don`t. Coated stones should be treated as you would treat opals or pearls; that is no polishing cloths or strong cleaners, or ultrasonic cleaners. Just a washing with mild soap and water or "windex". With a little extra care, and proper storage these beautiful stones should give all of us a lifetime of enjoyment.