Which gemstone is often treated with heat and sugar for enhancement?

Rubies are often treated with heat and sugar for enhancement, a process which significantly improves their color and clarity. The heating process helps to enhance the natural color of the ruby by removing impurities and enhancing the red hues. Sugar treatments can also be used, particularly in the case of rubies, to improve the clarity by filling fractures with sugar, which is later carbonized during a heating process to create an illusion of a clearer stone.

The use of heat is a well-established method in the gemstone industry, especially for rubies sourced from specific locations like Myanmar (Burma). This treatment is recognized and commonly accepted, enhancing the aesthetics of the gemstone while maintaining its value. The combination of heating and sugar treatment is particularly effective for rubies, making it a popular choice among gem traders and jewelers looking to improve the appearance of their stones.