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The Gem Merchant by David Stanley Epstein
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Author:  Barbra Voltaire, FGG [ Tue Jul 10, 2012 6:02 pm ]
Post subject:  The Gem Merchant by David Stanley Epstein

I was sent the latest edition of this book to review before it is released on July 16, 2012.

I found The Gem Merchant, How to be One, How to Deal with One a really entertaining and insightful read. It feels like you are having an in depth conversation with an experienced mentor who wants to insure your success in the gem industry on every conceivable level. Regardless of your trade experience, you will find this book a seriously useful tool. I certainly have.

Epstein does not leave a stone unturned, providing everything from beginner’s information on how to source and price gemstones to sophisticated tips on developing your business from the bottom up. From negotiating prices to insuring your security, you will find this book an invaluable asset!

The Table of Contents Sums it up:

Section 1- Buying
Preface
How Can You Buy if You Don’t Know What It Is?
How Can You Price if You Can’t Grade It?
Understanding Premiums and Discounts
What to Buy
Buying Customs-Negotiating Techniques and the “Real Price”
Buying Assistants
Travel, Transportation, Security

Section II- Business Planning
Preliminaries
Gathering and Organizing Information About What to Sell/Buy
Presentation Strategy
Office Location and Set-Up

Section III-Marketing
Prospecting
The Sale
Computer Marketing
Email
Web Sites
Auction Sites
Advertising
Promotional Items
Trunk Shows
Lectures

Section IV- Cutting (Manufacturing)
Rough Buying
How to Grade and Value
Working Rough and Separation
Lapidation: Recutting and Contract Cutting

Section V- Trading Overview and Projections
Know from Where to Where/ For the Jeweler
Classification of Precious Stones
Preferred Grades in Some Transparent Stones
Gem Supplies and Equipment
Gem Shams, Scams and Rip-Offs
What One Should Look For in a Gem Merchant
International Gem Cutting Centers
The Tucson Shows
Historical Analysis of the Gem Trade, Prices and Profit Margins
Color Photographs and Figures

Excellent! Highly recommended.

Author:  empress [ Tue Jul 10, 2012 7:29 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: The Gem Merchant by David Stanley Epstein

Thanks for the review!

Author:  Lee Little [ Wed Jul 11, 2012 12:56 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: The Gem Merchant by David Stanley Epstein

I can't read except for about 20 minutes before any book puts me to sleep but you got me excited about it! Thanks! Lee

Author:  Tim [ Wed Jul 11, 2012 4:08 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: The Gem Merchant by David Stanley Epstein

That explains a lot...

Author:  desertgem [ Wed Jul 11, 2012 4:12 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: The Gem Merchant by David Stanley Epstein

Thanks!! Excellent review. I am a moderator on a numismatics forum, and one could change just a few terms and have a wonderful book for someone wanting to start a coin business~ Or any business for that matter, Do you mind if I post the url for your post in the other forum?

Jim

Author:  Barbra Voltaire, FGG [ Wed Jul 11, 2012 10:18 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: The Gem Merchant by David Stanley Epstein

Please, by all means!
The book deserves it....it's really good.

Author:  Nicky Newark [ Fri Aug 10, 2012 1:59 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: The Gem Merchant by David Stanley Epstein

David dedicated book to Joe D. of Amazon Imports one of my favorite dealers.

Author:  wfwilson [ Thu Jan 03, 2013 4:44 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: The Gem Merchant by David Stanley Epstein

I just got this book as the kindle version, over the holidays. Noticed it was reviewed here.

I wanted to add my recommendation as well, an excellent book and an enjoyable read.

Author:  Richard W. Wise [ Sat Jan 05, 2013 1:24 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: The Gem Merchant by David Stanley Epstein

Well worth reading particularly if you are new to the game.

Author:  Barbra Voltaire, FGG [ Wed Jan 23, 2013 11:08 am ]
Post subject:  Re: The Gem Merchant by David Stanley Epstein

New fro David Epstein:
David Epstein 7:01am Jan 23
When negotiating gemstones, a subtle difference in grading can be large difference in price. Here is one of those differences open vs. closed gemstones. Hope the this video helps.


Author:  Hans Durstling [ Wed Jan 23, 2013 5:38 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: The Gem Merchant by David Stanley Epstein

Here's another video by David Stanley Epstein. While the video quality is antediluvian I find this one fascinating in that it tours Epstein's professional
(in the sense of non-hobby) cutting works in sufficient detail that we get a real good look at the machines. Note the jamb-pegs. Note the wonderful dopping aid in the form of a mason's trowell. Note that all work stations (sawing, pre-forming etc.) are individual, separate, with ample amounts of side space at each station. And chromium oxide seems to be the polish of choice.


Cheers all
Hans Durstling
Moncton, Canada

Author:  Barbara O. Ellis [ Thu Jan 24, 2013 12:53 am ]
Post subject:  Re: The Gem Merchant by David Stanley Epstein

Thanks for posting the videos! I don't believe I ever heard anyone talk about a "closed" gem before -- good info to remember.

The "tour" was fascinating, as well. Would be great to see in person.

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