[Rockhounds] Why does the color of some gems fade?

[Carol Carter-Wientjes]

Hi Rock Friends,

Just back from a trip to Oregon and a first sunstone dig. What fun! We didn't find anything to retire on but did recover a couple lbs. of small schillers and a few little reds. Easy to see why people get hooked on digging them, count me in!

On to the question.....Why do some pink and purple gems fade? ie, rose quartz, Holley Blue, etc. How about carnelian too? Does it make a difference if they're heat-treated?

Looking forward to your comments on this, CaroL



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