An Honest Conversation About Gem Sourcing & Prices

 

This is a really important topic, and I wanted to share some frank realities in our industry. I hope you find this content helpful, and please feel free to share with others who are discussing the topic.

 

If you have more questions or want to talk about gemstones and how to make smart purchasing decisions you can come visit me in my booth at the AGTA GemFair January 31 – February 5, 2023 – BOOTH #1106.

 

We are at a time where so much of what we purchase is digital, from music to books, to art, and so much more. However, there should always be questions in the consumer’s mind to move further into their understanding of ethical sourcing and sustainability.

 

Our industry is having a challenge with some gemstone dealers claiming ethical sourcing and sustainability for marketing purposes. These people are aware that these are buzzwords that may help them sell more.

 

Also, with today’s photo filters and editing applications, images can be altered to appear differently online than they do in reality. Now, it is more important than ever, to work with gemstone and jewelry companies that you can trust.

 

We have seen the end consumer be swindled by unethical, often overseas dealers or drop shippers, who find their way to high-end clients using platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Etsy. Often these sellers do not have the quality of gemstone they claim, and they trick consumers by posting photos that are heavily edited.

(screenshot from Etsy showcasing gemstone jewelry)

 

One of the most pressing conversations for the end consumer is in regards to properly disclosing treatments of gems, ethical sourcing, and sustainability. More and more end consumers are becoming aware of the way things are sourced.

 

“One of the reasons I am an AGTA member is that it is the ONLY wholesale association worldwide that requires its members to annually provide copies of their invoices with disclosure of treatment codes on gemstones and pearls,” says Kimberly Collins.

 

AGTA is also the most ethnically-diverse association with members of all races and religions that come together under one association to sell the best quality and most ethically sourced gemstones in the world. There are members who actually own mines across the globe, and it doesn’t get closer to the source than working with an AGTA supplier.

 

AGTA is the industry stamp of integrity. It is the trustworthy certification of colored gemstones in both loose and finished jewelry, that can give you peace of mind with  your purchase. Quality gemstones hold their value throughout time, and more than ever, the end consumer is paying attention to the quality and value of their jewelry purchases.

 

Even in this time of economic uncertainty, there are still anniversaries, birthdays, graduations, births, engagements and life events worth commemorating. Savvy jewelers are aware of the economy and sourcing challenges and these things may affect consumer pricing.

 

AGTA GemFair – January 31 – February 5, 2023 – BOOTH #1106

You can stop by and see me, Kimberly Collins, at any time during the show, but if you would specifically like to discuss your gemstone or gemstone jewelry inventory needs please email casey@kimberlycollinsgems.com to make an appointment.

AGTA GemFair Website: agta.org

 

Visit our Kimberly Collins Instagram Page to preview some of our newest loose gemstone and finished gemstone jewelry inventory!