QuestionThomas, thanks for replying to my question about buying loose tanzanite in Africa. Looks like my best bet is to stick with reputable jewelers at home rather than risk getting ripped off abroad. Thanks for the feedback!
AnswerLauren, many times people have come into the jewelers where I once worked and were all excited to find out how much "their stone" was worth. Generally, the gem was purchased on a cruise, at an island stop or during a visit to another country. The expectation is to have paid only a small percent of what the gem would cost here. The hard part is telling them they spent too much, which is often the case. Sometimes there is recourse and if purchased off the street all may be lost.
I imagine is it possible for your brother to buy a nice stone at a reasonable price but the question is this: Do you want to take that chance.
Thanks for getting back even from a "rejected" inquiry. God Bless and Peace. Thomas.
