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2008 Arizona Bead Dog Interview with Stewart Kuper
Profile at-a-glance: Stewart Kuper, Jeweler
26 years in business
Stewart Kuper Jewelers
5762 E. Broadway Blvd.
Tucson, AZ
520.750.0050
Arizona Bead Dog: What’s one of the best ways to be assured that the loose stone you buy is what the jeweler says it is?
Stewart Kuper: If you’re buying a diamond or other gem of high value, ask the dealer to provide an independent certificate on the stone. Independent certificates are generally prepared by labs with no relationship to the buying and selling of the stones. This document provides some credence to what the dealer is telling you; something similar to the way a home appraisal tells you about the house you’re about to purchase.
ABD: What are the benefits of buying loose stones?
SK: Buying a loose stone allows the buyer with experience and training to detect and identify characteristics of the stone that may be hidden by a setting. Additionally, buying loose stones permits you to visit your local jeweler and place the stone in a custom setting designed specifically for that stone and your tastes.
ABD: A lot of buyers, especially the lay public, are concerned about fakes. What comfort can you provide about that subject?
SK: I’m a Master Gemologist Appraiser; there are only 65 in the nation. Thus, when I sign the certificate of authenticity, I’m convinced of the stone’s genuineness and characteristics, such as being a natural gem without enhancements.
ABD: If a member of the public wanted to get an appraisal of the genuineness of a stone, could they visit your store? What does the process entail, and do you charge a fee?
SK: Generally, a gem show buyer buys the loose stones as is; in other words, only a few dealers will permit you to take the stone for an independent appraisal. To appraise a stone for insurance purposes, I charge a $100 fee; to appraise a stone simply for its cash value—what I would pay you to buy it from you—I charge nothing.
ABD: What other advice would you give to those who decide to buy loose gemstones?
SK: Where you need to be most careful is where you’re spending the most money—don’t buy anything of great cost to you—see your local jeweler instead. For instance, I purchase my gemstones from an out-of-state show that’s very selective on who can make purchases from that show. But as for the gems and stones at the gem show, I recommend buyers have fun, enjoy themselves, and “caveat emptor.”
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