Buying Gemstones Bangkok: Tips and Top Spots
Thailand is ranked as the world's third-largest exporter of gemstones and among the top exporters of silver. The secret to Thailand's success in the gemstone trade? It's all in the hands of its incredibly skilled workforce, especially the gem cutters, whose expertise has given the country a competitive edge.
In this article, we'll take a look at some of the places to shop for gemstones in Bangkok and give you a few tips on how to use your time there.
The Bangkok Jewelry Trade Centre
The Jewelry Trade Centre (JTC) is located in Bangkok's vibrant Silom neighborhood. This 59-story skyscraper attracts a worldwide audience of eager traders, investors and consumers. Spanning an immense 18,000 square meters of commercial and retail area, the JTC is a bustling marketplace for over 1,500 wholesalers and 300 shops.
Famous for its extensive selection of colored gemstones, gold and silver jewelry, accessories, and more, this magnificent structure has become a haven for jewelers and gem purchasers.
When it comes to learning about the industry or finding a one-of-a-kind gemstone, Bangkok Jewelry Trade Centre is one of the greatest venues in the world to have these experiences.
Just a stone's throw from Bangkok's Jewelry Trade Center, you will find more offices and workshops. One of them is Veerasak Gems, founded by Mr. Veerasak Trirotanan over four decades ago. This purveyor specializes in exquisite rubies sourced from the mines of Mozambique and Myanmar.
What sets Veerasak Gems apart is not just their dedication to sourcing fine gemstones but also their mastery in transforming raw rubies into polished masterpieces. A self-taught lapidary, Mr. Trirotanan has transformed his humble workshop into an international business. This success can be attributed to his exacting cutting techniques that enhance the inherent beauty of each stone, offering customers some of the finest rubies available anywhere in the world.
Why Buy Gemstones in Bangkok?
For those interested in buying gemstones, whether for fashion or investment, purchasing them in Bangkok offers many benefits. From brilliant sapphires to verdant rubies, the city's wide selection of high-quality gemstones is world-class. This variety enables customers to discover just what they desire, customizing their choices to match their preferences and requirements.
In addition, wholesale purchasers can enjoy affordable prices without compromising on quality, all because of Thailand's extensive network of traders and craftsmen. With their extensive experience in gemstone cutting and polishing, Thai artisans produce pieces that are both beautiful and hold lasting value.
Tips for Prospective Buyers
You need to be careful and perceptive to make your way through Bangkok's lively yet intricate gemstone and gemstones and jewelry trade scene.
Anyone interested in doing business here would do well to consider the following:
Compare Prices: With so many options available it's always smart to compare prices to make sure you're receiving fair value on your purchase.
Consider the Reputation: Always opt to buy from reputable dealers. Those registered with the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the Asian Institute of Gemological Sciences (AIGS) are typically reliable. Stay away from touts, who often loiter around temples and other points of interest, preying on unsuspecting tourists.
The Importance of Certification: Ask for a certificate from an independent laboratory for any gemstones that are considered valuable. This way, you can rest assured that your purchase will be of high quality and genuine.
The Main Takeaways
No one can deny Bangkok's significant role in the international gemstone trade. Thai jewelry and gemstones are world-famous, and Silom with its Jewelry Trade Centre is a prime example of this.
Whether you're a wholesaler exploring your possibilities or a collector in quest of that one-of-a-kind piece, Bangkok has it all.
