Gemstone Colorization

Radiation processing can substantially improve the color of gemstones such as topaz by creating changes in their crystalline structure.

• High-energy electron beam processing can duplicate colors only nature could otherwise provide. White topaz, for example, becomes Sky Blue and London Blue topaz transforms to Swiss Blue/
• Gamma radiation also has a role to play in gemstone colorization. Rich Cobalt Blue topaz is created with the use of gamma radiation. Other gemstones, such as tourmaline, may also be processed with gamma radiation to change them to desired new colors.

Sterigenics' electron beam and gamma plant in Thailand is well known for its gemstone colorization. It is conveniently located near Bangkok, one of the world's largest cutting centers. Electron beam processing of gemstones is also done at Sterigenics' facilities in San Diego and Tustin, California, and Espergærde, Denmark plants.