How to Start a Business Selling Precious Gems and Stones

Sellers have a wide assortment of precious and semi-precious gems and stones to choose from.

A gem or gemstone is a precious or semiprecious mineral that can be cut by gemstone cutters into jewelry or other artisan works. A precious or semi-precious stone can refer to certain rocks such as lapis or organic materials like amber that are used in a similar fashion as gems. There are many ways to enter the market for gems and stones. Uncut rough gems or stones can be imported directly from their country of origin or they can be purchased from domestic gem and stone wholesalers or distributors. Also, polished gems and stones can be purchased to sell through a retail store or as a mail-order supplier to jewelry makers and other artisans.

Things You'll Need

• Suppliers
• Clients

Instructions

1. Conduct industry research. Learn about the different types precious and semi-precious gems and stones. Learn how to identify quality in both rough and cut gemstones. Obtain knowledge of market values, which often fluctuate based on supply. For instance, certain gems require certification from such organizations like the Gemology Institute of America (GIA).

2. Write a business plan. Drafting a business plan helps to determine business feasibility, identify business goals and determine financial and human capital requirements. The U.S. Small Business Administration provides business plan drafting assistance through its online resources.

3. Start-up the business entity. Apply for a tax identification number (TIN) from the IRS and set up a business bank account for the new entity.

4. Secure a business address. This business can be operated as a home-based mail-order business using a printed catalog and/or a professional website. In this case, a post office address will suffice. To sell directly to the public in a retail environment, lease a brick and mortar storefront. Selecting a commercial community to start a business is one of the most important steps for a new business. Access to vehicle and foot traffic are important considerations.

5. Join industry organizations. The American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) is a professional organization that offers its members access to industry publications such as the AGTA Source Directory. They also organize the annual AGTA trade show that draws gemstone wholesalers and distributors. The Tucson Gem and Mineral Society (TGMS) also produces an important annual industry trade show. The Tucson Gem and Mineral Show draws major industry distributors, wholesalers, retailers, jewelry makers and other artisans.

Tips & Warnings

• This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for legal or tax advice.

References

• Gemology Institute of America (GIA)
• The American Gem Trade Association (AGTA)
• Tucson Gem and Mineral Society (TGMS)

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish