European Diamond Reports

Coating Treatment

Coating Treatment For An Emerald

A drilled bead was sold as an emerald… but the reality was very different.

Under magnification, the colour told the story. We observed green surface coating beginning to flake, particularly around the drill hole and edges areas where wear occurs first.

Testing confirmed the material beneath: white topaz, not emerald.

Surface coatings like this can appear convincing at first glance, especially in beads. But they are only superficial and can degrade over time, revealing the true stone underneath.

🔍 What to look for:


  • Colour concentrations around drill holes
  • Uneven or patchy colour
  • Signs of surface wear or flaking

At E.D.R – European Diamond & Gemstone Reports, we specialise in accurate gemstone identification and coating treatment detection.

If something doesn’t look quite right, especially with emeralds, have it tested.

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