[Jewelry making - Article 00495] - [Orchid] Dyed rubies discovered!

[TheWildInside]

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Hi all,

    Several years ago at a wholesale gem & lapidary show I purchased my
    very first strand of what were for me higher end beads... a lovely
    set of faceted graduated flat oval rubies. I purchased enough small
    18k gold granulated beads and an 18k gold clasp to restring and
    complete the piece. With my usual mark-up, this piece is through the
    roof when compared to most of my other inventory; but I always
    thought it seemed to elevate my things to another level. Most people
    can't believe they are looking at and touching rubies when they
    encounter it. It always excites comment. However, a few months ago I
    had an occasion to wear them for the first time and discovered that
    they're dyed. I was angry and disappointed. I'd purchased other
    strands of rubies since first purchasing this dyed strand and have
    discovered no similar treatment on them. I now feel I need to lower
    the price of the piece as a result. More than my feeling the need to
    do this, I'm disappointed that I wasn't alerted to this treatment
    when I purchased the strand. Perhaps it was my neglect for not
    asking. But I guess what I'm looking for is what to do now. Is there
    some safe way to remove excess dye from the strand? What concerns me
    is actually selling it and having someone come back to me with the
    reality that the strand left a red streak on someone's expensive
    cashmere sweater. Not having any experience with rubies prior to this
    purchase, I had no idea they would be treated. I've had gorgeous blue
    chaceldony fade away to clear and have learned to ask when purchasing
    those strands, one of my favorite stones. But they're usually heat
    treated. The only other dyed items I've encountered are pearls
    (which have never bled onto clothing.. at least not that I've
    encountered) and coral. Any suggestions or techniques for cleaning
    them up a bit?? 

    As usual, your advice and assistance are greatly appreciated! 

Karan
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