Laser-drilled diamonds require disclosure

Laser-drilled diamonds are not new to the industry, but many jewelers are concerned when labs add the statement "diamond has been laser-drilled" to the bottom of their appraisal.
Since some jewelers are not aware of what is involved in this technology and fear that their customers will be alarmed at such information, they would rather not have to deal with the subject. Aside from FTC rulings requiring disclosure, laser-drilling of a diamond should not be side-stepped.
The lasering process simply improves the "look" of a stone by lightening a dark inclusion. Through a microscopic drill hole, acid may be injected into the diamond toward an unsightly inclusion - those most customers refer to as "carbon spots". In contact with the acid, the inclusion is bleached and becomes less visible to the observer.
It must be noted, however, that while drilling may improve a diamond's appearance, it cannot improve its clarity grade.