Which type of treatment is often associated with enhancing the color of sapphires?

Heat treatment is commonly employed to enhance the color and clarity of sapphires. This process involves exposing sapphires to high temperatures, which can improve the stone's overall appearance by altering the color distribution within the crystal structure. Many sapphires occur in a range of colors, and through heat treatment, undesirable hues can be reduced, resulting in a more uniform and appealing color. This method is widely accepted in the gemstone industry as it does not significantly alter the physical or chemical properties of the stone, making it a preferred practice for enhancing sapphires without compromising their integrity.

While radiation treatment can affect color in some gemstones, it is not a standard process for sapphires. Chemical treatment relates more to processes involving dyes and enhancements that might not be as stable as heat treatment. Pressure treatment is typically associated with diamonds and does not play a role in standard sapphire enhancement practices.