Three major jewellery and gemstone trade organisations are calling for stronger action against irradiated gems, particularly rubies and fancy sapphires from Sri Lanka, that are being sold in the market.

According to The World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO), the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) and the International Colored Gemstone Association (ICA), a significant number of these gemstones are reportedly unstable, with colours fading to almost white or light pink or becoming dark red in the case of rubies. AGTA also reported that vendors could be using radiation from various sources to create such temporary, undisclosed treatments.

“The issue has become increasingly important, given that the irradiation of coloured gemstones is now widespread, and for some of these treated stones, the resultant colours are not stable,” the associations said in a joint statement.

The Gemological Institute of America defines irradiation as exposure of a gem to an artificial source of radiation to change its colour.

According to CIBJO, AGTA earlier raised such concerns in the US where many dealers have reportedly stopped purchasing yellow, peach and Padparadscha sapphires and rubies from Sri Lankan traders. 

Consequently, the Sri Lankan Gem and Jewellery Association (SLGJA) has responded, indicating that measures are being taken to combat the problem, including an industry-wide awareness campaign and plans to introduce stricter regulations and penalties for non-disclosure of treatments, noted CIBJO.

“If the present situation is allowed to continue, it will undoubtedly have a negative impact on the industry and by extension, on consumer confidence in coloured gemstones,” said CIBJO, AGTA and ICA.