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Tourmalines from Afghanistan

UserPost

7:39 pm
July 3, 2008


yojimbo

Guest

Hello, I have a friend who travels to Nuristan in northeast Afghanistan several times a year for business. While he's there he is approached often by locals looking to sell him what they claim is tourmaline. He would like to buy these stones and bring them back to New York for resale. What should he, a complete laymen in the field of gemology e looking for ? Is his idea a good one or a pipedream. He's going back soon for another 3 or 4 month tour and is looking for guidance.

8:02 pm
July 9, 2008


Guest

posts

G'day yojimbo (great name that) 8)

Let me tell you a story about the Korean War.

Troops were offered bright red ruby gemstones which they bought – thinking they would make a killing when the got home.

Turns out the gemstones were plastic and glass – cut into gems from the STOLEN TAIL LIGHTS off their jeeps – Talk about a final con job…

If they don't know what they are doing – don't do it!

Get them tested BEFORE cash changes hands.

Hope that helps.