Which gemstone's treatment in the 1990s decreased consumer confidence?

The treatment of emeralds in the 1990s had a significant impact on consumer confidence due to the widespread use of various enhancement techniques. During this time, many emeralds underwent oiling, a common practice intended to improve their appearance by filling surface fractures and enhancing color. However, as consumers became more aware of such treatments, concerns arose regarding the authenticity and natural state of the gemstones.

Emeralds are inherently more included than many other gemstones, and the extent of treatments applied led to confusion about what constituted a natural stone versus a treated one. As different levels of treatment became common knowledge, the market saw an influx of products that varied dramatically in quality and value. This ultimately contributed to a decrease in consumer confidence, as buyers found it challenging to determine the true nature and worth of emeralds they were considering.

In contrast, treatments applied to rubies and sapphires, while also prevalent, did not cause the same level of consumer skepticism during that era. This could be attributed to the gemological community’s established guidelines around the disclosure of treatments, which made it easier for consumers to navigate concerns related to these stones. Thus, the specific context surrounding emerald treatment in the 1990s makes it clear why this gemstone had a marked influence on