Frequently Asked Questions

Ordering & Payment

How do I purchase gemstones from Gem Enthusiast?

You can browse and purchase directly through our Shopify store at gementhusiast.shop or through our Etsy shop. All gemstones are photographed individually, so the stone you see is exactly what you'll receive. Simply add your selections to cart and check out securely.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept all major credit cards, debit cards, PayPal, and Shop Pay through our Shopify store. All transactions are processed through secure, encrypted payment gateways.

Can I place a custom sourcing request?

Absolutely. If you're looking for something specific that you don't see in the current collection, reach out via email at patriagems@gmail.com with details about the gemstone type, color, size, and budget you're working with. I'll let you know if I can source it for you or suggest similar alternatives from current inventory.

Do you offer wholesale pricing?

At this time, Gem Enthusiast focuses on individual stone sales to independent designers. Each stone is individually curated and priced fairly, so wholesale programs aren't currently available.

Shipping & Delivery

Where do you ship?

I ship throughout the United States via USPS with tracking. International shipping is available on a case-by-case basis—please contact me before purchasing if you're outside the US so we can discuss shipping options and costs.

How long does shipping take?

Orders typically ship within 1-3 business days of purchase. Domestic shipping via USPS Priority Mail usually takes 2-4 business days after shipment. You'll receive tracking information via email as soon as your order ships.

How are gemstones packaged?

Every gemstone is carefully packaged in bubble wrap bags and shipped in a padded envelope or small box depending on the size and value of your order. Orders over $300 will ship for free via USPS Priority Mail.  High-value orders may require signature confirmation for delivery.

What if my package is lost or damaged in transit?

All shipments include tracking, and higher-value orders are insured. If your package is lost, delayed significantly, or arrives damaged, contact me immediately at patriagems@gmail.com with your order number. I'll work with you and the carrier to resolve the situation.

Returns & Exchanges

What is your return policy?

I want you to love every stone you purchase. If a gemstone doesn't meet your expectations, you can return it within 7 days of delivery for a full refund, minus return shipping costs. The stone must be returned in its original condition and packaging.

How do I initiate a return?

Contact me at patriagems@gmail.com within 7 days of receiving your order. Include your order number and the reason for the return. I'll provide return instructions and a return address. Once I receive and inspect the stone, I'll process your refund within 3-5 business days.

What if the stone looks different than the photos?

I photograph every gemstone under controlled daylight-balanced lighting to show accurate color. However, gemstones can look different under various lighting conditions—that's part of their natural beauty. If you receive a stone and the color appears significantly different from what you expected, please contact me. I'm happy to discuss lighting variations or process a return if you're not satisfied.

Are sales final on certain items?

Custom sourced items or specially ordered gemstones may be final sale. This will be clearly noted before purchase.

About the Gemstones

Where do your gemstones come from?

My gemstones come from around the world; however, I specialize in American-mined gemstones, particularly Oregon sunstones, Montana sapphires, and other domestic material. I also source fancy sapphires, spinels, and unique gemstones from trusted international suppliers. Every listing includes origin information, and I'm always happy to provide additional sourcing details.

Do you cut your own gemstones and cabochons?

I don't facet or cab my own gemstones. The time required would increase costs significantly, and I'd rather keep stones affordable while sourcing from skilled cutters. Occasionally I'll purchase rough material and have it custom cut, but most often I buy directly from mine owners or trusted dealers who work with professional lapidaries. Nearly all gemstones are cut in global centers of lapidary expertise like India, Thailand, and Sri Lanka, where generations of cutting talent produce exceptional quality at reasonable costs.

Are your gemstones treated or enhanced?

I disclose all treatments on every gemstone listing. Many gemstones undergo standard industry treatments like heat treatment for sapphires, which is permanent and stable. I never sell stones with undisclosed treatments, and I avoid treatments that are unstable or designed to hide flaws. If you're unsure about treatments, just ask—I'm here to educate.

Why does the listing say "Treatment: Unknown"?

Sometimes I source beautiful gemstones from dealers who don't know the complete treatment history or can't verify whether treatments were applied. In those cases, I list the treatment as unknown rather than making assumptions. If I suspect a treatment based on the stone's characteristics, I'll note the most likely possibilities. Remember that not all treatments are problematic—heat treatment in sapphires and tanzanite, for example, is common, accepted practice that permanently enhances color.

Do you sell synthetic or lab-created gemstones?

No. All gemstones sold at Gem Enthusiast are natural. If I ever carry lab-created stones in the future, they will be clearly labeled as such.

How do you photograph your gemstones?

Every stone is photographed individually under daylight-balanced LED lighting to show true color. I typically include multiple angles and, when possible, video to show how the stone performs under movement and different lighting. What you see in the photos is the exact stone you'll receive.

Can I see a stone in person before buying?

Since I operate online, in-person viewings aren't typically available. However, I'm happy to provide additional photos, videos, or detailed information about any stone. I want you to feel confident in your purchase, so don't hesitate to ask questions.

Understanding Gemstone Quality

How should I choose the right gemstone for my jewelry design?

Start by considering your setting design, metal color, and the overall aesthetic you're creating. Color is the most important factor—choose a gemstone color that complements your design vision. Next, consider cut quality (how well the stone is proportioned and polished) and clarity (visible inclusions vs. clean appearance). I'm always happy to provide guidance based on your specific project.

What's the difference between gemstone cut and shape?

Shape refers to the outline of the stone when viewed from above—round, oval, cushion, emerald cut, etc. Cut refers to how well the stone is proportioned, symmetrical, and polished. A well-cut gemstone will show better brilliance, color saturation, and overall beauty regardless of its shape.

What does "eye-clean" mean?

Eye-clean means a gemstone has no visible inclusions or flaws when viewed with the naked eye from a normal viewing distance (about 6-12 inches away). The stone may have inclusions visible under magnification, but they don't affect the appearance to the eye. This is an excellent quality level for jewelry.

Should I prioritize color or clarity?

For colored gemstones, color is generally the most important factor. A gemstone with vibrant, saturated color and minor inclusions will typically be more desirable than a pale stone with perfect clarity. That said, the ideal choice depends on your design—some settings showcase clarity while others emphasize color.

What are treatments, and should I avoid them?

Treatments are processes used to improve a gemstone's appearance. Some treatments, like heat treatment for sapphires, are permanent, stable, and widely accepted in the industry. Others, like fracture filling or dyeing, are less stable and can hide quality issues. I disclose all treatments and focus on selling stones with stable, accepted enhancements or completely untreated material.

How can I tell if a gemstone is good quality?

Quality depends on several factors working together: color saturation and evenness, cut precision, clarity, and how the stone performs under different lighting. A high-quality gemstone shows vibrant, consistent color, good brilliance and sparkle, minimal visible inclusions, and symmetrical proportions. If you're uncertain about a stone's quality, I'm always available to discuss specifics.

What's the difference between natural and synthetic gemstones?

Natural gemstones form in the earth over millions of years. Synthetic (lab-created) gemstones have the same chemical composition and physical properties as natural stones but are grown in a laboratory. Synthetic stones are typically less expensive and can be more "perfect" in appearance. All stones at Gem Enthusiast are natural unless explicitly labeled otherwise.

Why do gemstone prices vary so much?

Gemstone pricing depends on rarity, color quality, clarity, cut quality, size, origin, and market demand. A highly saturated, well-cut gemstone from a desirable origin will command a higher price than a pale, poorly cut stone of the same species. I price transparently based on these factors.

Working with Gem Enthusiast

I'm new to buying gemstones—can you help me?

Absolutely. Education is a core part of what I do. Whether you're a jewelry designer just starting out or an experienced metalsmith exploring new materials, I'm here to answer questions and guide you toward the right gemstones for your work. Don't hesitate to reach out.

Do you work with hobbyists or only professional jewelers?

I work with anyone who loves gemstones—from professional jewelry designers to hobbyist metalsmiths to collectors. If you're creating something beautiful, I'm here to support you.

How often do you add new inventory?

I typically release new gemstones weekly or bi-weekly through curated drops. The best way to stay updated is to join my email list or follow @gem.enthusiast.usa on Instagram, where I announce new arrivals and featured collections.

Can I get notifications when you have specific gemstones in stock?

Yes. You can sign up for back-in-stock notifications on the website for sold items, or you can email me with your wishlist. I'll keep your preferences on file and reach out when something matches.

What makes Gem Enthusiast different from other gemstone sellers?

Transparency, education, and trust. I disclose full origin and treatment information and provide educational resources to help you make informed decisions. I focus on American-mined gemstones and serve independent jewelry designers who value honesty and quality. My goal is to change how gemstones are bought and sold—with clarity instead of secrecy.

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Still have questions? Email me anytime at patriagems@gmail.com. I typically respond within 24 hours and love talking about gemstones.