Rough Gemstone Buying FAQ

Origin & Mine Claims

Do you disclose where your rough comes from?
Yes. For most material we carry, we list the country of origin and, where known, the mining region or specific locality. These details come from the suppliers and miners we source from directly. If a listing says "locality unknown" or gives only a country, that is the extent of what we have been able to verify — we will not invent a more specific claim.

How do you verify origin information?
We rely on documentation and direct relationships with our suppliers. We do not independently assay or geologically test every piece. If precise provenance matters for your purchase — for example, for investment or certification purposes — please ask before buying so we can share what documentation is available for that specific lot.

Natural vs. Treated Material

Is your rough natural and untreated?
We carry both natural untreated rough and, in some cases, material that has been stabilized, irradiated, or otherwise treated. Each listing specifies which applies. If a listing does not mention treatment, the material is represented as natural and untreated to the best of our knowledge based on supplier disclosure. We cannot guarantee treatment status for every piece without lab testing, which we do not perform in-house.

What does "stabilized" mean?
Stabilized material — most commonly turquoise or other porous stones — has been infused with resin or a similar substance to harden it and improve workability. Stabilized rough is clearly labeled as such in our listings. It is entirely legitimate for cabochon cutting and jewelry use but should not be represented as untreated natural material.

Cutting Suitability

Is this rough suitable for faceting or cabochons?
Where we have assessed cutting suitability, it is noted in the listing. As a general guide:
• Faceting: Look for transparency or translucency, minimal fractures, and consistent color. Heavily included or fractured material is unlikely to yield clean faceted stones.
• Cabochons: Opaque or semi-translucent material, interesting color patterns, and chatoyant or adularescent stones are often ideal cab material even with inclusions or minor fractures.

How do I assess transparency?
We photograph rough against both dark and light backgrounds and, where practical, with backlighting to give you an honest view of transparency. A piece described as "eye-clean" or "high transparency" is based on our visual assessment under standard lighting — not lab measurement. Inclusions visible in photos are real; not all inclusions may be visible in photos.

What about color zoning?
Color zoning is noted in listings when it is prominent. It may or may not affect the finished stone depending on how the material is oriented during cutting. We are happy to discuss orientation and expected yield if you have specific questions about a piece.

What hardness is this material?
Mineral hardness (Mohs scale) is listed for each species where known. Hardness affects cutting difficulty and finished durability. If you are new to cutting a particular species, we recommend researching its specific cutting characteristics before purchasing.

Condition & Inclusions

How do you describe condition?
We describe the condition honestly based on visual inspection: natural surface features (vugs, matrix, skin), internal fractures, cleavage planes, and notable inclusions. "Collector grade" material may have characteristics that make it less suitable for cutting but desirable as a specimen. "Cuttable" material is assessed as likely to yield usable cut stones, though yield estimates are approximate.

Do inclusions affect the price?
Yes. Heavily included or fractured material is priced accordingly. We aim to price rough fairly relative to its actual cutting potential and specimen quality, not its ideal best case.

Photos & Unique Lots

Are the photos of the exact piece I will receive?
It depends on the listing type:
• Single/unique pieces: Photos show the exact piece. What you see is what you get.
• Lots or gram lots: Photos are representative samples of the material. Individual pieces within a lot will vary in size, shape, and exact appearance. We note this clearly in lot listings.

Can I request additional photos?
Yes — for unique pieces or if you have specific questions about a lot, contact us before purchasing. We are happy to provide additional photos or video when possible.

Documentation & Certificates

Do you provide gem certificates or lab reports?
We do not provide third-party lab certificates as a standard part of our sales. If a piece comes with existing documentation from a prior owner or supplier, that will be noted in the listing and included with the shipment. For high-value purchases where certification matters, we recommend buyers arrange independent testing with a lab of their choice after purchase.

Can you provide any written documentation of what you have represented?
Yes. Our listing descriptions serve as our written representation of the material. We stand behind what we have written. If something about a piece is materially different from its description when it arrives, please contact us — we will work with you to make it right.

Still Have Questions?

We love talking rocks. If something on this page did not answer your question, or you want to know more about a specific piece before buying, reach out directly. We would rather you ask than be uncertain.