QuestionMy mother left my brothers and I some raw uncut Zambian emeralds, amethysts and red citrine. What would you suggest is the best way to sell them? If we were to sell them raw, what's the best way to find a dealer (particularly in Canada)? Alternatively where could we get them cut/treated?
Answerwell you must be careful...the value of stones cut and uncut can be huge..
there are some people that will sense you are new to this and take adavantage of you..
I knew an Afgan big dealer in Tourmaline..he told me "when you shake the hand of a cutter,
you have just met a thief" ..I dont want to over dramatise this but if those uncut stones have a high value...you must be very careful..I would suggest not to let them out of your sight
even when presenting them until you have found someone totally trustworthy. I would suggest getting a good scale down to the gram..and inventory and weigh your stones....
you need to find first a cirtified gemologist or reputable stone cutter ...and again do not let these out of your sight unless it is determined they are low value...I would ask 3 experts if possible...
remember the value is what someone will actually pay you..I recommend you sell them as is as opposed to finding someone to cut them...it is hard to determine how much rough will produce and it is a whole other level. Try calling the GIA in Carlsbad Ca. Explain what you have,,see what they say and ask if they have any gemologist graduates near you...please feel free to ask me any more questions..
regards rolfe
