| Gail and all -
On a general note regarding this kind of niche jewelery, from my experience buying for and selling it in retail settings, the gem quality is the least of the assets for this market. Typically I have found dyed/treated gemstones with blemishes or inclusions that would keep them out of the market for the seriously higher-end consumer. More important are overall design, construction, artisan signature or other "unique" feature and metals quality. (Although now, given gold prices on the rise, occasionally I see gold fill, 14k or more silver.) Also worth noting, often galleries ask artists to sign certain agreements about the pricing and availability of their work elsewhere which makes sense - the only way the gallery makes money is by selling the artist's work. |