QuestionSir,
My father-in-law gave me several uncut, unpolished (whatever the term) saphires. Where
do I go to learn their value and sell them? My
father-in-law purchased the stones in 1965 while
overseas.
AnswerDave, what you have is referred in the trade as "rough" material. This means from the earth and uncut. The only way to know what the finished stones would be worth is to have the rough cut into gemstones. The chances of having valuable gems is quite rare since most is quickly harvested by buyers at the mines.
Locally the best place to see about getting the stone cut is a rock and gem club. These "rock and gem" and "gem and mineral societies" contain amateurs. Almost always there are those there who cut rough stones. They can tell you if the stone should be cut faceted or cabochon. Only clean and clear rough may be faceted, that is, cut like diamonds, blue topaz and other gems with many faces(facets) on the final gem. Cabochon is a domed shape cut with a rounded polished top, as in opals and black onyx.
Another resource is a local "rock shop" where there may be access to a local cutter. A third and more costly resource is a jewelry store with connections to gem cutters.
First, the rough must be evaluated as to suitability for cutting. The rock and gem clubs and rock shops may give you better advice than a jewelry store on this aspect!
The value of the stone may be determined by appraisal once cut. There is no realistic means to determine value prior to cutting of the gemstones. A competent jeweler can do an appraisal for you. Reselling is a difficult thing wiht many gem dealers servicing the jewelry business with literally every make, shape and quality of cut gem available. Once the gems are cut, you may write me agin and we will see how and even "if" to approach that part.
Dave, I do hope this info will be of help to you. If you need more, you may use the "follow-up" option to get back with me.
God Bless and Peace. Thomas. Sept. 11, 2006 7:53pm
