Ask the Experts Heated vs. Dyed Colored Stones Q&A

What is the difference between "heated" and "dyed" colored stones?

- Ginger

The American Gem Trade Association (AGTA), of which Fire Mountain Gems and Beads® is a charter member, considers a stone ''heated'' when heat is used to create a change in color, clarity and/or phenomena. The AGTA's definition of a dyed stone is one in which a coloring agent has been introduced into the stone to give it new color, intensify its present color or improve its color uniformity.

Sometimes the dye used to color gemstone beads can be unstable. To seal the color, simply apply an artists' fixative like Mona Lisa™ Metal Leaf™ top coat sealant to the stone.