FAQs
Answers on sourcing, certification, shipping, custom orders, and trade accounts.
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Can I buy directly from your website?
Not yet — our ecommerce checkout is launching soon. In the meantime, use the inquiry form on any stone's page or contact us directly. We'll respond within one business day with availability and pricing.
Do you accept returns?
Yes, within 7 days of delivery for stones that arrive materially different from their listing. The stone must be unset and undamaged. Contact us before returning — we'll arrange a prepaid label.
Are your stones conflict-free?
Yes. We source directly from small-scale mining operations in Kenya and Tanzania where we have established relationships with the mine operators. We do not buy through anonymous intermediaries. Origin is documented on every GIA report.
What does "one-of-one" mean?
Every stone we sell is a single, unique specimen — not a calibrated parcel. Each is photographed individually, graded individually, and listed individually. Once sold, it's gone.
Can I see more photos before buying?
Yes. For any listed stone, we can send additional angles, a video in natural light, or a loupe image of key inclusions. Just ask via the contact form.
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Is a GIA certificate included with every stone?
Yes. Every stone we sell ships with its original GIA report. The report number is listed on the stone's page — you can verify it on GIA's website before purchasing.
What does the GIA report cover?
Species and variety, color grade, clarity grade, weight, dimensions, and treatment status. For some species, GIA also documents country of origin. It does not include an appraisal or market value.
Do you sell treated stones?
Only where treatment is standard and universally accepted in the trade — for example, heat treatment in tanzanite and some sapphires. We do not sell fracture-filled, diffusion-treated, or coating-enhanced stones. Treatment status is always stated in the listing and confirmed on the GIA report.
What if I have doubts about a stone after it arrives?
Contact us. If the stone differs materially from its GIA report or listing, we will arrange a return and full refund. You can also independently verify the GIA report number at no cost on gia.edu.
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Where do you ship?
We ship to the United States. International shipping to select countries is available on request — contact us before placing an order to confirm availability and any import duty obligations on your end.
How are stones packaged?
Each stone ships in a gem jar with its GIA report document, inside a padded outer box. Larger stones are also wrapped individually. The packaging is designed for transit safety, not presentation gifting — let us know in advance if the order is a gift.
How long does delivery take?
Domestic US orders typically arrive within 3–5 business days via insured courier. Expedited options are available at checkout. International timelines vary by destination — usually 7–14 business days.
Is shipping insured?
Yes. All shipments are fully insured for the declared value of the stone. In the event of loss or damage in transit, we handle the claim on your behalf.
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Can I have a stone set into a piece of jewelry?
Yes. We work with a small number of trusted bench jewelers who are familiar with handling fine colored stones. If you have your own jeweler, we're happy to provide handling guidance and communicate with them directly.
What's the process for a custom inquiry?
Start on the Custom Jewelry page or contact us directly. Tell us the stone species, approximate size, and your setting idea. We'll confirm stone availability, discuss design options, and provide a timeline before anything is committed.
Can I request a specific size or shape?
We can sometimes source to specification from our mine partners, depending on species and timing. Tsavorite and sapphire availability varies by season and parcel. Contact us with your requirements and we'll advise on realistic options and lead times.
Do you offer engagement ring stones?
Yes — yellow and blue sapphire in particular are well-suited for engagement settings given their hardness (Mohs 9). We can discuss center stone options, proportion requirements for specific settings, and pair you with a jeweler if needed.
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Who qualifies for a trade account?
Licensed dealers, bench jewelers, jewelry designers, and gemstone retailers. We review each application briefly — approval typically takes one business day.
What does a trade account include?
Access to the wholesale price list, early notification on new parcels before public listing, and the option to request memo stones for qualified accounts. Trade pricing is applied automatically after approval.
How do I apply?
Fill out the short form on our Trade application page. We'll respond within one business day. No fees, no minimums to apply.
Is there a minimum order for trade accounts?
No minimum order. Trade pricing applies per stone from the first purchase. Volume arrangements are available for larger ongoing orders — discuss directly with us.
Still have a question?
If your question isn't covered here, reach us directly. No sales pressure — just a straightforward answer.
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