What Is The KM Treatment Process For Diamonds?
In 2000, the KM Treatment was introduced to the market. The KM Treatment which is the abbreviation of the Hebrew term 'Kiduach Meyuchad’(Special Drill), (also known as Internal Laser Drilling(ILD)) is used to remove black inclusions from the inside of the diamond. The KM Treatment is an improvement on laser drilling, though it is less popular, when it is used it is highly effective. It is important to know that although Diamonds that go through the KM process are treated, they are 100% real earth mined diamonds.
How Does The KM Treatment Process Work?
A semi-focused laser ray creates heat which causes the existing crack to expand and reach the surface, or to open up a pathway to another existing crack that reaches the surface. Once you have made a path that connects the surface to the inclusion the stone undergoes a deep boiling in sulfuric acid in order to clean or whiten the black faults.
We have a very cost-effictive
KM enhanced diamond collection
Identifying KM Treated Diamonds
The KM Treatment process is harder to identify than regular laser drilling to the naked eye, because after the treatment, the crack looks like a natural fracture inside the diamond. Under a microscope, a diamond that has received ILD treatment reveals a series of small step like cracks and may show signs of scorching from the laser. These passages, which look like wormholes or fish teeth, are clear indications of the KM Treatment Process.
Advantages Of The KM Treatment Process
The process is intended to remove the black inclusions from the stone without making the passage created by the laser ray drilling visible. As a result, the crack created by the process looks more natural than a hole that was drilled using traditional laser drilling. An unfavorable characteristic about KM is the 'laser drill-hole' that remains in the stone after the process is completed.
Is The KM Treatment Permanent?
Just like traditional laser drilling, the treatment of diamonds with KM internal laser drilling is permanent. Therefore, KM drilled diamonds are also allowed to be certified, according to internationally recognized standards for diamond certification. Note though that the treatment must also be clearly stated on the diamond's certificate.
At CaratsDirect2U we offer KM Treated Diamonds as loose diamonds as well as mounted in 14 or 18k pendants, solitaire diamond engagement rings as well as diamond studs. You can view our
Currently, the Federal Trade Commission requires full disclosure of all laser drilling treatments. In following this rule and to be completely transparent with our customers we disclose all treatments that our diamonds go through. All the diamonds offered on CaratsDirect2U.com are 100% natural and conflict free diamonds.
If you have any questions about the KM treatment or any of our KM treated diamonds please call one of our professional jewelers at 1-800-557-7095 or email us at [email protected].