The journey started a year ago when my interest in collecting hard assets such as gold, silver and copper bullion began to feel redundant and I began searching for other options.
It was through the course of my exploration that I came across gemstones. I was immediately drawn to not only their beauty but how each stone had a specific uniqueness, and own story if you will. I began ordering a few gemstones but found they were quite over priced, not exactly the best investment. I also was intimidated by larger companies and the uncertainty of trusting that what I was ordering was indeed genuine.
As time progressed I began to connect with various retailers, sellers and other hobbyists. Through these relationships I was able to find and source natural gemstones at a much more reasonable price and establish trusting relationships. I found this very gratifying. I enjoy the idea of collecting semi-precious and precious gemstones that may grow in value over time and be a sound investment. Plus I appreciate looking at pretty shiny gemstones versus uninspiring gold and silver bars. LOL!.
Don't we all! All that sparkle is indeed addictive. Fortunately for us, Cait and Shelly are sharing some of their finds to jewelry makers. I have selected some of my favorites from their collections. The Welo opals from Ethiopia such as the specimen above are especially lovely and affordable.
Metalsmiths and wire workers will appreciate these. Some of the gemstones are on the small side so check if you are bead weaver as they be more difficult to work with.
Collecting gemstones as an investment is a long term one. The International Gem Society has an interesting article : Making Money Investing in Gems: The Top 5 Rules. You basically have to "buy right", be knowledgeable and control costs among many things. "Gemstones of lower value often appreciate more and are easier to liquidate" than really expensive rare specimens.
Grape Garnet |
Tanzanite |
Ametrine |
Tourmaline |
Honey Zircon (this is a gemstone not the simulant cubic zirconia) |
Green Apatite |
Fanta Orange Spessartite |
Peridot |
Ethiopian Welo opals |
Australian Parti Sapphire |
Red Amaldine garnets |
Before You Go :
- Colorful Wire Wrapped Gemstone Jewelry Designs by bellajewelsII
- Watch This Modern Day Prospector Look for Gemstones and Gold
- Watch this Australian Opal Miner Crack Open Veined Rocks!
What beautiful stones. My passion!! (Unfulfilled as it is)
ReplyDeleteHow pretty!! I could get into gemstones much quicker than gold or silver, that's a good point! and so easy to transport.
ReplyDeleteOh My!
ReplyDelete