Hey friends,
I often get asked where I source my gemstones from. The truth is I get them from a bunch of sources. I’ll tell you about a few of them here!
Friends
I get a lot of my gemstones as locally as I can, basically from trading with friends. I go to small tool swaps at Danaca Design, or the Seattle Metals Guild Symposium auction, and usually pick up some stones when I’m there and get to see people I know. (Unfortunately neither of these things are happening this year, but I can’t wait to attend them next year). I also have a few friends who are gemologists and stone sellers, so I always ask them first when I need something specific.
Stores
There are a few local gem sellers in Seattle who I go to when I need something specific that I know they’ll have, but need to see it in person first. There are also some stores, like Seattle Findings, that sell some loose cabochons and other stones. It’s great to be able to see gemstones in person before purchasing them, and to talk to the sellers to see where they come from.
Gem Shows
Twice year or so there is the International Gem and Jewelry Show at Seattle Center. I go to these as often as I can, especially if I’m in the market for something, or just want to stock up on cabochons. They have a pretty good selection, good prices, and friendly vendors. It’s kind of hit or miss if you’ll find what you’re looking for, but it’s always fun to go to.
Online
The last place I go to buy stones is online. If I want to buy a bunch of the same stone, or I need a calibrated lot, it’s easiest to get online. I buy from sources like Stuller and Rio Grande, and sometimes from Etsy. It’s difficult to know what I’m getting if I order online, because I really do like to see the stones in person first. But desperate times call for desperate measures. Also, I can literally find anything I need online. I try to make sure the vendors I’m buying from are reputable and fair-trade, and make sure they have good reviews before purchasing.
