In addition to gemstone cutting, over the centuries we have developed countless other methods to improve upon the natural properties of gemstones. These techniques are known as enhancements. They derive from our desire to draw from nature's bounty the truest and purest color and brilliance. A basic understanding of these enhancement techniques will add to your appreciation of the beauty, durability, and value of gemstone jewelry.

It is important to note that gems mined from the ground are referred to as “genuine gemstones”. We use the term “Natural” only for those gems that have not received enhancements of any kind. Many other companies use the term natural and genuine interchangeably. All the colored gems and diamonds shown in the Stuller & Paspaley Collection are genuine – some are enhanced and some are natural.

All of the South Sea pearls shown are cultured, however their luster and color are not enhanced, as the culturing process is started by man, these gems cannot technically be termed “Natural”. Natural pearls are quite rare and virtually non-existent in the jewelry market. Although the growing process is started by man – the end result is up to Mother Nature.

The following codes and definitions are adapted from the American Gem Trade Association's Gemstone Enhancement Manual, which is the industry standard for disclosure of enhancements.

N: Natural – Not currently known to be enhanced; however the “N” symbol can also be used for other natural gemstones in the event that a stone has received no enhancement and the seller will provide a guarantee that there has been none.

E: Typically Enhanced – The "E" symbol indicates that a gemstone has undergone its traditional enhancement process.

H: Heated – The use of heat to effect desired alteration of color, clarity and/or phenomena (residue of foreign substances in open fractures is not visible under properly illuminated 10X magnification).

D: Dyed – The introduction of coloring matter into a gemstone to give it new color, intensify present color or improve color uniformity.

O: Oiling/Resin Infusion – The filling of surface-breaking fissures with colorless oil, wax, resin, or other colorless substances, except glass or plastic to improve the gemstone’s appearance.

Pearls may vary in appearance than those depicted.

All designs in the Stuller & Paspaley Collection are shown with fine-quality South Sea cultured pearls with the exception of the Liz Ring #64587, which is shown with a statement quality pearl.