Watch this before you BUY GEMSTONES ONLINE!

[@TheArtOfMetalsmithing]

If you liked this video, make sure to check out the other from the gemstone series! - How to source gemstones? SUMMARY & tips: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mZfRgX5vZqiVjKM​​ - How to find gemstone sellers? Tips from JEWELRY MAKERS: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rqOqnKaaj5ujn7M​​ - How to attend a gem show: kzbin.info/www/bejne/n3vchXZoh698e5Y​​ - How to source gemstones, tips from lapidary artist and gem cutter, Mineral Rare: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iGm8d2uqjMeiY6s​​ Let me know what other topics you'd like me to cover!

[@violette80]

Thank you soooo much for those helpful tips! May I ask you how much it costs to buy all the absolutely necessary materials and tools to get started at silversmithing? Thank you dear ❤️

[@julieungashick1807]

Great advice! Most sellers are reasonable if you are friendly. Can you do a video on putting a piece together? What solder to use, the order of assembly, and how to polish in those tiny spots. Thank you!!

[@janesmith1398]

Thank you! Great advice for any online purchases. I would love to see how to make intricate bezel strips. ☺

[@honoree2894]

Great information! I’m the screenshot queen!

[@kristinperdue6392]

I’m so incredibly impressed with how you stood up to these sellers and fought for the proper resolution! I too have ordered cabochons from India that arrived with slightly rounded bottoms, and I’m ashamed to say that I’ve just accepted them this way and will likely never use them! I respect you for being your own advocate in how you took photos! I’m going to do those very same things in the future for sure! I would really love to see more teaching videos where you explain the step-by-step process from start to finish while you make one of your fabulous pieces

[@heronponie]

Wild how deceptive some people can be! I’m new to cabochon buying and the only scams I’ve run into so far was a seller who took the money and disappeared 😔 thankfully per your previous videos’ advice, I only make small purchases with unfamiliar sellers so I didn’t lose too much money.

[@TheArtOfMetalsmithing]

I'm so sorry this has happened!! We have to be very careful and do the background check every time. It takes time and might be annoying, but at least we are safe and won't lose money. Thank you for watching and glad it was helpful! :)

[@tangojuli209]

Don't be discouraged. Shes buying from vendors in foreign countries. Etsy protects buyers as does ebay. In the states, if you go to rock/gem shows there are tons of cutters and most are passionate about what they are selling and can tell you a lot about the stone if they are the cutter. Some may have a high markup, but you won't run into scams this way. If you go to local rock shows you can meet cutters directly and they love to teach abt cabbing. Its a great way to learn, and collect cabs economically.

[@jypsyjewels2854]

Please follow the link in my KZbin banner to contact me

[@oceanos1902]

I think is super nice the way you’ve resolved the problem with each of the sellers. Glad they refunded you in the end.

[@TheArtOfMetalsmithing]

I'm glad you think so! I used to be more of a "nice girl" and had to learn to stand my ground and speak in a certain manner in these cases. Otherwise some sellers will walk all over you, they are professionals and don't care. Luckily in these cases everything worked out well. Thank you for watching!

[@shabushabz17]

Deciding to start my own silversmithing journey because of you

[@anesaharder9383]

I’m sorry you had to deal with these issues but thank you for giving us all your experience so we can learn from it. ❤️ love your work too!

[@TheArtOfMetalsmithing]

my pleasure! I hope that sharing this with you guys will help you avoid similar situations. Thank you so much dear! xx

[@hanamoreton6543]

Loved this video Basia 💟 Great format and great subject. I think many jewellers and makers have been caught out buying gems online at some point. I know I have in the past. What’s really important to remember is the law regarding online/telephone selling. If the buyer tells the seller within 14 days of receiving the product that they don’t want it (for any reason), the seller must refund the buyer on return of the goods. It’s the distance selling laws. Even big firms aren’t always aware of this: I’ve just won a battle with a massive kitchen company. The nameless company had to refund me as their policy didn’t take into account distance selling laws! 😁 Why should us little businesses have to comply when the big boys don’t?! Anyway, love your vid as always! 💟

[@wioorka9314]

Thank you Basia for sharing your knowledge and experience, much appreciated 😊

[@mvaughan-green1270]

I would love to see a video on the different stages of patination and how to seal the process.

[@courtneycrichton4501]

I am soooo happy I watched this video. Thank you for your advice and I am so impressed that you stood your ground. Well done and thank you again.

[@BeadnWithNicoleB]

Wow I agree with you on this. Either way they were trying to be deceptive and they didn't think you would even notice. I take pictures of things I order online as well and this video is confirmation that it's the right thing to do.

[@evib7244]

"So you got this marquise..." 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@TheArtOfMetalsmithing]

hahahaha!! 😂😂😂 This was so honest haha

[@JayDub_143]

I TOTALLY agree with you!! This was NO innocent mistake and I hope you left a review advising others of this issue. Brilliant tips and truly so appreciated!!! I always fear buying gemstones for this very reason now I feel a bit more prepared for any "mistakes" 😘😁🙏💖 By the way... That butterfly ring has my heart a flutter!!! Absolutely GORGEOUS!!!!💖💍💖

[@rebeccafeyen4717]

I love your video's, I bought my first saw and some copper sheet and even had my first try at soldering. Thanks for the encouragement!

[@atomicsupernova]

Really nice the way you dealt with all the issues! Thanks for sharing :)

[@allisonroberge2022]

I’ve really enjoyed watching your videos. I always come away with a new idea or lesson. Your content has been very helpful. Thank you!

[@mariadesa4162]

Really helpful info - thank you so much Basia. I love these chatty videos as well as your jewellery tutorials.

[@magorzataslezak3447]

Love your videos of all kinds - they are very informative and your positive energy is contagious :)

[@Adso6]

Thanks a lot for this content, it is really helpful! I fell for such scamming plot only once. Still, I wish I had been wiser that time ;) I started to take pictures of ordered stones and components since then.

[@faniaba7414]

I really love your channel!😍 In particular, I love your casual style. At the same time, you're very meticulous when it comes to useful information. Wishing you all the success you deserve 👑 I've started making jewelry recently. I've made a necklace, a bracelet and a pair of earrings with pearls. So I'm watching the videos on your channel and finding them very informative🙏🏻

[@workoutpixie]

Excellent advice Basia❤ I’ve been a silversmith & wrapper for years and I’ve had my own learning experiences particularly when I bought on eBay But once again I’ve learned something new watching your video. Very good advice. Thank you for taking the time to make your videos.

[@pajtognetti7531]

They are con artists!!! I had similar experiences as you- probably most, if not, all of us ordering online have!! Same horseshit responses from those vendors and CONSTANT exhausting back and forth emails- like you! Bottom line, besides taking photos and asking questions, and saving all of your conversations with them as proof, I found buying in person from a whole seller (if possible) much less stressful and you can see and choose your own gemstones! Unfortunately, shady, dishonest vendors are ruining trust and business relationships for everyone; they should be blacklisted from the industry!! Thank you for sharing your experiences and giving others warning advice. ❤️

[@TessellatedHeart]

These a very smart ideas. I've never thought to take screenshots of things like this. Thankfully I've never had any issue with stones I've purchased

[@moonlocals8690]

You are so kind and professional when resolving these order issues!! Big hats off to you!! I live in the United States and have been silversmithing for 3 years. I no longer purchase gems from anyone outside the U.S. because of these problems. You have to be very diligent in messaging them and no outcome is guaranteed. I only purchase from people outside the U.S. at the Tucson Gem show or at other local gem shows. Your video is great information for beginners, I wished I had. You’re amazing!!

[@ginakelley5087]

I would love if you did videos on beginner soldering projects :) like specific jewelry pieces you think are very beginner-level soldering friendly!

[@SP-fy4fx]

Good points - I plan on implementing your suggestions. I don't yet buy expensive stones, but your points are good practice. Love the butterfly ring.

[@nohana2003]

When I buy stones from Etsy, I always use paypal. When stuff gets lost or I'm not happy with the purchase I will always get my money back.

[@kirinwaite6074]

I really appreciate these kinds of tips! Would love something on how to spot scammers and bad stones online. My IG has been inundated with follow requests from "stone vendors" whose oldest posts aren't even 6 months old. Be nice to learn how to weather that

[@tangojuli209]

interesting to hear you say that. I get the same thing too. on FB, I get weird foreign people (weird names) and stone vendors following me and liking different designs.

[@janellehoney-badger6525]

Great advice, I’m new to online ordering of gems & I always think I’m going to get a random stone off the ground or polished quartz. Lucky all good so, ordering from home country. I’ll definitely take your advice. I agree you were right to challenge the “error”

[@liliagilevich9169]

Thank you so much for sharing. I will keep that in mind! Very helpful!

[@jadeheart911]

OMG !! The Manta !!! Those are so cute !!!!! Perfect for the beach !!!!!!!!! I have been subscribed for quite some time !!! Thank you for a ll the great tips in this video too !!!! I love the beachy looking pieces. How about Moldavite !??

[@yourfavnurseb9699]

Oh my you are a tough cookie, I would have probably given in but you are SO right, it was deceptive and people do make mistakes. As a business owner I’ve learned that I have to put my tendency to be understanding to the side and put on my big gurl business panties!! On another note, maybe a good business practice for sellers would be to take a photo and send it to buyers before shipping as well. Question: When a customer doesn’t get a package that is clearly marked as delivered by the post office do you believe that the seller should replace it or basically leave it up to the customer to deal with. Video idea: maybe an updated beginner supply video for silversmithing.

[@karinalozoya8134]

You have truly inspired me to start creating jewelry. Your content has been extremely helpful and such a blessing! Thank you so much for sharing your experience and incredible tips to help starters go in the right direction! ❤️

[@jypsyjewels2854]

Please follow the link in my KZbin banner to contact me

[@Jelly-rj8fz]

thank you so much for this really valuable information, it is very sound advice. I love your little manta ray, very unique.

[@yousradouiri3272]

Since you started sharing these lovely videos on this channel I consider it as my favorite channel to learn silversmithing. I love your energy and the way how you explain process for us, I am following you here and on Instagram since the very beginning, I feel like I know you as a real friend ❤️ thank you for the lovely work you’re doing and keep going. Love and Hug from Morocco

[@loria.202]

Thank you for the great advice! All your tips are very helpful!!

[@grannykdesigns]

Thank you for being you, and sharing the things you’ve learned along your jewelry making journey!

[@delacamur]

Very solid advice! I will be doing this from now on, I would love to see a video of how you decided on a website and what went into making it.

[@noranelbannan]

It’s your right to always get your money’s worth👏🏽 I’m glad you fought for it 💜

[@driadalena4615]

You are never too old and it’s never too late 🙌

[@timprobasco9882]

Wow... I've been so lucky with my foriegn etsy purchases. (knock wood) but yes... Screen caps always pre-buying. Great advice for newbies!!!... Also buying Labradorite can be tricky... If it's photographed at a wwird angle... You better believe that's the only flashy view... Thanx for this video advice❤️

[@phantom66cyberwolf]

Thank you so much for the tips and advice, truly appreciated. I like the sound of a video on gemstone properties, as a beginner there's so much to consider.

[@marianamayer9423]

Thanks! I was afraid to buy my gemstones online. I feel more secure with this tips, I think I'm going to give it a try 🙂

[@mizzcolorful100]

I always take screenshots when anything or if I talk to customer service rep. I appreciate you sharing your experience and makes me feel less crazy about taking so many screenshots just in case someone or company is trying to pull a fast one lol

[@tangojuli209]

Thanks for the great tips. I didn't think of this since I assumed that I can pull up the listing in etsy from my purchases section. I think some of the indian (and other) sellers are new to Etsy and selling direct bc of the pandemic instead of to a wholesaler. Just speculation. They have tons of low priced stock to shoot and its time consuming to shoot tons of $5, 7, $11 stones. I know from doing this myself that its a struggle to keep the listing numbers and product together when you doing a mass photo shoot. The pandemic forced a lot of people to sell online in a really structured environment with very strict expectations by consumers and its really trying for some people. One lesson I learned regarding more precious gems: THEY ALL SAY GENUINE GEMSTONE. Don't believe anyone selling on ebay or etsy if its a precious stone. Esp for gemstones that have cheap imitations (ruby, sapphire, spinel, jade, all beryls, topaz, etc). I've been buying cheap synthetic for shits n' giggles, but knowing what I'm getting ahead of time. But shake my head at deliberately deceptive spiel and in one case, a pseudo-certificate of authenticity. I discovered this morning that ONE strand of "ruby" rondels by one of my formerly favorite etsy sellers didn't even scratch glass. I didn't think to test it when I received it which I usually do. Ah well. Buyer beware. Thanks for the great tips.

[@auneueson4695]

Here I have to correct you Basia .. When the cabochon has a round back side it's because it shouldn't sit on the plate .. these sit nicely on clowsetting and when the round back fills in nicely the way you have made of wire or plate which you saw out the back side ... so .. what I mean .. these round should be open back not closed back of jewelry .. I learned via having several such type round or like that at the edge was like a step . and when I tried to put it in jewelry that was closed at the back, it was so wonky, but when I sawed out the so-called raised part that should mate with the stone, it worked well ... so it's not waist of money or poor quality or unfinished cut .. it's meant to be used on the open back ...

[@hybridgoth]

Indeed, I was going to say something similar, adding that... these types of rounded back cabochons are typically seen most often in highly translucent and transparent materials, the slight curve aids light transmission whilst maximizing the light path length to optimise the depth of colour saturation within the stone.

[@Calicocat98]

Your videos are so inspiring. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge Basia 💚 It is truly a blessing watching your channel flourish into something special! I have recently started to learn how to silversmith and I hope to become like you one day! Haha

[@tammiehonican76]

Thank you for all your knowledge! Helps me alot! And have a great day!

[@TheArtOfMetalsmithing]

I'm happy you enjoyed the video! Thank you so much for watching ❤️

[@Vanlife_With_Miss_V]

Great vlog as always, I think you dealt with all of the issues really well, and have given us some great advice, so thank you. Hope you have a great week, take care and keep smiling ♥️

[@moorejl57]

Great advice on making online purchases. I think it applies in general and not just to gemstones. I enjoy your videos very much and I am just learning how to make jewelry. Out of all your gemstone purchases, what percentage have you had issues with?

[@TheArtOfMetalsmithing]

Oooh, very tiny! Honestly, I've only had about 5 or 6 cases like that throughout the years, and most of them were solved well, becasue I stood my ground and was prepared. I always do the background check and I've educated myself about gemstones, so I can avoid scams altogether. I'm glad you've enjoyed this video and I hope you won't ever have to experience a situation like this!

[@HarmonicEnigma]

Thank you for another great video. When I start shopping for stones to make jewelry I will definitely follow your advice! :)

[@carolwalker858]

I have had similar issues with gemstone sellers, especially from sellers from other countries. Your advice is excellent. I will be taking screen shots from now on. I never thought about photos of unboxing, but you make a good point about doing that. I will follow your suggestions in the future.

[@lb8822]

Use PayPal....very helpful when there are issues with seller. Thanks for the advice.

[@TheArtOfMetalsmithing]

Totally! I haven't discussed that case here, but I did have another one where the seller just would't refund for the order I never received and they were completely ignroing me (whoch made me think, that maybe it wasn't lost...but never sent). Etsy washed their hands, as the whole thing took 3 months...TF?? So PayPal helped me. It took a while, but my case was closed positively for me.

[@moyacruden4195]

Glad that you're giving us all these tips and tricks. Been a real help for my growing jewellery hobby! 😁

[@TheArtOfMetalsmithing]

I;m really happy about it! Thank you so much for watching and being here :) Good luck with your jewellery making!

[@ritamcaetano]

Hi Basia!!! Thank You for some more great tips!!! :D and for the GiveAwayyyy! 3 more suggestions on video contents (besides others i have given before): I would love a video on moving from brass to silver: diferences to consider/how to begin (although i think you went quite straight into silver, right?) + finishing techniques (some more detail into the use of foredom attachments, the importance or alternatives to an ultrasonic and a tumbler (i have neither :P)) + renaissance wax (do you use it and how? what's your feedback? I have it and also have protectaclear but not sure i'm using any of them correctly...) And I'll stop, for now! *** looking forward for your next video!!! All the best!

[@TheArtOfMetalsmithing]

Awesome!! Thank you so much for this 🥰❤️

[@asawa71]

I really enjoy your content as I am new to making jewellery. I would love to see a video about how you perform different tasks, as a jeweller, like how make an item from start to finish. It is great to see how people do things (eg. polish) differently! Thanks, lovely lady 🙏🏻💜

[@aleksandrahelios7758]

Thank you for sharing all your knowledge with us! 😍 I appreciate every tutorial that You make and would like to see more 😊 It's so inspiring!

[@GabbieAbbie]

Very helpful, wish I had seen your channel before buying some bogus turquoise and sodalite (that was supposed to be lapis lazuli) A lot more careful before I buy now. Thank you.

[@TheArtOfMetalsmithing]

oooh, I know what you mean, I've bought my fair share of fakes right when I started! It's hard to tell the difference if you have no experience. At least now you know for sure and won't buy fakes again. Thank you so much for watching!

[@sweetpantsproductionsjazzy]

Thank you so much for this, it's very informational and helpful. I've been looking for a specific stone for awhile but didn't want to get scammed or something but this really helped in showing me what to do and where to look for one. Great video as always!!!

[@sashazavadsky557]

This was so helpful! Glad you stood your ground and didn’t let any seller take advantage. I adore all of your videos and selfishly, as a new silversmith, would love to see more tutorials 😅💕 The part where you set the stone is so incredibly satisfying that you may want to do a compilation video of just those 😂 Thanks for sharing your tips with us Basia! ~Sasha

[@sorrelknight]

This is super helpful! Thank you for letting us learn from your experiences. Also, I love the way you seem to be full of such bright, friendly energy. It sounds kind of odd, but you seem like you'd be a perfect fairy character. Like Tinker Bell or something, but more earthy.

[@lilacmoonshadow]

Love your friendly videos, they’ve given me loads of confidence to get started making my own jewellery. Would you consider making a video showing how to make different styles of ear wires consistently for earrings?

[@kizzy5607]

Great advice! Any advice for using a saw would be greatly appreciated 🙂

[@kaseykathleenx550]

This is super helpful when it comes to ordering stones online it’s hard to get the full idea of what the stones look like! Also that manta is beautiful, it reminds me of my childhood in Florida going to touch all the stingrays at the aquariums. :)

[@FinsterBunt]

This was a very helpful Video, like all of your Videos! I can really feel that you love what you do! You gave the confidence to me to try Start silversmithing on my own! Thank you a lot! (Sorry im there were any mistakes,but my english is not the best)

[@thejaswiilapogu9336]

Thanks for the tips, I always look forward for your videos! I’m going to start making jewelry soon!

[@sdroma6445]

Such good information. Thank you.

[@robynselk6853]

I just found you. The manta is gorgeous. I can't wait to see more of your videos.

[@marelisaromero4986]

Thank you 😊 great information to know.

[@WireWrapJewellerybyDiane]

Hi Basia, awe you always give great advice. I had very similar issues with 2 Etsy sellers, so have always taken photos of my purchases including the receipt at the end, I thought I was the only one lol🤔😬 Hmm 🤔I would like to see a detailed soldering lesson and would love to hear of the mistakes you've made, like.... my first newbie error when I accidently melted my over head magnifting lamp with my gas torch 🔥 ouch! never again tho, I learned an important lesson about knowing what's in your personal space and what fire does to it when you forget!!! Hahahaha urgh🤦‍♀️ Sending love & hugs. Diane x❤🧡💛💜💙💚

[@johnabbotts1706]

l experienced receiving stones not looking as advertised and the seller asked for photos of the stones l received. They were insipid compared to the stones advertised. The seller issued a refund. Your video contains good advice for buyers .

[@xBrinnx]

They never expect you to have photos 😉 Thank you for sharing it's so helpful and I agree 100%, disingenuous actions like that are unacceptable. I've had more problems while ordering gemstones than any other supply.

[@TheArtOfMetalsmithing]

so true! Gotta be very careful and always cautios. Thank you for watching! :)

[@chloedrawsstuff5972]

I started learning silversmithing this year thanks to your videos, they’ve been a massive help ☺️ I’d love to see some more opal pieces and I’d love to see how you made the backless moonstone pieces you posted on your Instagram a while ago! I’m in the process of making my own cabochons with layered paintings in resin and I’m excited to make them into jewellery

[@azinfandellvr]

I'd love to see how your cabs turned out! Edit - I just subbed to ur channel..I'll stop by!

[@VanessaBasora]

This is very helpful! Thank you!

[@TheArtOfMetalsmithing]

Glad it was helful! Thank you! :))

[@naama1009]

Thank you basia for sharing this! Super important❤️ I would like to see more studio vlogs! They’re great. And maybe a tutorial about soldering Thank you again❤️

[@TheArtOfMetalsmithing]

Grate suggestions! Thank you so much :) I will be making a video about soldering in the near future. And studio vlog too! I missed making one! :) Thank you ❤️

[@justynaswiatek9944]

Hi Basia :) as always your video is very helpful!!! Sometimes I buy online, but most of the time I buy stone beads. I am fortunate to have a wonderful store with stones and crystals near where I live, and if I need cabochons there I can find truly unique pieces with very good quality. Entering in that shop (located in a 13th century abbey) you can feel good energy emanating from stones and crystals, it is a very lovely place. Thank you so much for sharing your experiences and for the advice :)

[@TheArtOfMetalsmithing]

wow, that sounds like a wonderful place! And a very magical to visit :) A 13th century abbey! If you wouldn't mind sharing where it is, I would really appreciate it, maybe I'd be able to visit one day 😍Thank you for watching Justyna! Sending lots of love, take care 🌞

[@justynaswiatek9944]

Yes, of course 🤗 with pleasure, this is the FB profile m.facebook.com/laminieradipiomariani/ They also have their own website www.la-miniera.com/gb/?controllerUri=index but on the website, unfortunately, there is not all this that is in a physical store. The physical store is in Italy, maybe one day you will take a trip to Italy so you will have the opportunity to visit the store as well 😍🤗 ( and if you will need I can be a tour guide😄) I send you a big hug🤗🌸

[@wataanola6740]

This is such an important topic thank you! It reminded me of conversations i had a few years back. It's very frustrating when the person on the other end clearly doesn't recognize they made a mistake/doesn't care about solving the issue.. The patience it requires to communicate with them ugh When you mentioned gemstone properties, i really would like to hear more about that subject. Which stones work for you, how they make you feel, i'd love to hear about your experience (as in this gem made me feel more confident, calm etc). I like hearing how gems work for other people ^^ Thanks a lot again for this video, much love 🙇💕

[@TheArtOfMetalsmithing]

Great suggestion! I want to make a nother video about gemstone and their properties. Their hardness, which are easier to work with, other properties :) Much love!

[@Saharu544]

I love your all videos 😍💕

[@halliallen5460]

Great advice as usual 👍🏻

[@CocoNaty]

Your timing of this video couldn’t be more perfect. Haha It is good to know some of these ‘mistakes’What happened elsewhere. I’m trying to sort One out at the moment. Hopefully it will be resolved respectfully ;).Thanks for Sharing your experiences!

[@olegpetelevitch4443]

I have this happen with diamonds and rubies ,the rubies were pink ? How? Blood red pigeon $3000 they sent me a $10 stone ! I reported and got refund ! I do not buy gems diamonds on web ! Only cheap synthetic cz ,and the rest colored stones . BE CAREFULL THE SELLERS DO THIS ON PERPOUS ! I always take photo and any markings numbers ,before and after . Get a certificate GIA !

[@stelavelvet4977]

You make my learning journey so much easier and less stressfull!! :) Thank you so much

[@tishsmiddy71]

I agree ! I take a screen shots of everything I buy and conformation! 🤟🏻❤️💋after a few scams too!!! Great advice on all you video’s

[@Iknowonlywhatimtaught]

You handled it correctly. You took photos of you online purchase and when unboxing and it shows the problem. It was not your problem, it was theirs.they should have issue a return lable of the different stone and sent the stone of stones you ordered. They could have handled it by giving you a refund and you return the recieved stones, but the best solution would have just send you the stone you we're missing and offed a discount on the other stone so they didn't have to pay shipping. Whatever they should have corrected the problem. It worth going the extra for customers especially new customers. Customer Service is all any of us in business jave to sell to our customers. I deeply feel if any business can't give this vital service to keep customers happy customers, you should not be in business at all. That's just my experience in my own business. Dropping the ball and losing customers will come back to haunt any business. Even large businesses that fail their customers will eventually suffer greatly if they fail thos #1 rule. Happy customers are returning customers if you have a product in demand to sell.

[@danglishgirl]

I always find gem sourcing a bit nerve wracking. Great video! I love tutorials, and day in the studio and tools unboxing/review videos!

[@ellenmeister9491]

I enjoyed your video, iI just started buying stones from Instagram/Etsy myself. I always take pictures of the listing. So far my first experience has been great, but the gal was from California. I am waiting for a long time now, from stones from India. Hope it's a good experience. Video was perfect! I wouldn't change a thing. THANK YOU.

[@kimbain4368]

Commenting as I watch, and I'm in total agreement with you, and your responses have been polite and not aggressive, but firmly stated. Your suggestions are right on, though I wouldn't have thought of taking pictures, I must admit. That's such a good idea. I'm the one in my family who says "No, this is not right, I'm going to fight it". While the others are saying "No, it's alright, lesson learned the hard way.......blah blah blah let's be complacent and not make waves". I'm a born wave-maker when it's called for. Mess with any of my family in any capacity and I'm going to, respectfully but firmly (aggression doesn't work), stand up even if (especially if) they're too meek. At the age of 65, I've certainly learned to pick my battles -- except when it comes to family, as well as to myself. Thanks so much for this video. It's wonderful information. I always take notes and names when I'm dealing with someone on the phone, and pictures of online purchases is a grand idea. I'll add that to the arsenal. When I was younger, I always took someone at their word because I was raised to have integrity myself and assumed that those who "seemed" to be nice, stand-up persons would be just that. Life's lessons have proved that not to be the case, sadly. Anyway you've got valuable advice here, so thanks for sharing that. I've been a subscriber for a while and love your work. I've made "fashion jewelry" for years but I love watching how "real" jewelry is made. Congrats on 55K. It's well-deserved. Any knowledge you can share about gemstones would be wonderful, as that's where my passion lies. Scams would be especially helpful, but the stone's properties, etc. would be very welcome, indeed.

[@kobuolys8351]

I love you being so polite and nice person as customer too! ❤️

[@Caimille]

Thanks for your advice, Basia! I'm definitely going to take screenshots of listings and photos. I would love to see more gemstone buying videos and metalsmithing videos in general.

[@stephencoster9532]

Hiya Lady Stardust, how do you keep coming up with these great videos, thank you. Buyer beware indeed! Good advice dear lady, cover your back & all angles with screenshots & photos. A picture paints a thousand words? So use a lot of pictures, cover every angle & make sure you keep the seller honest by keeping a good record of who, why, what, where & when... Great advice dear lady & I wonder how many people have fallen foul of dishonest sellers, keep them honest, box them in with your 'Box Brownie! Stay safe...Steve...

[@Pustl]

i am always so excited for new content of you! 😁 As i‘m watching them mostly on my smart tv i forget to switch to my phone and comment every time... But not this time! Haha I love your video content and also your instagram storys and feed

[@lisajayne74]

Sooo, I sell on Etsy and I accidentally did what the first seller did. When I list new items I usually copy existing or sold listings because it’s faster, since a lot of the need-to-know information is already there. I was listing a new item and thought I hit “copy” but I didn’t, and published the new listing. The new listing info, including pics, replaced the old sold one. As far as I know I can’t fix that. Of course the seller is at fault and this drives home the point of screenshotting your order, but it might have really been a mistake and not malicious.

[@SuomiAnyWay]

Your videos are getting better and better. Now I can feel you are comfortable with vlogs and I am happy for you. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and your kind personality. :) I like chit-chat videos and the tutorials too. Scotland is the best

[@Ken_Dalton]

Hi Basia👋.. Great to see you😊 youtube dont often put u in my news feeeds even tho im subbed lol.. I havnt been on Instagram in 5 months as in Ireland we are still on lock down 😔😔it sucks, i hope to get back working soon though 🙏.. I got my first stones from India too an i have to say i have been fortunate to make some great contacts and have not been disappointed, lets hope that continues haha.but its awful u had to be cheated in a way of what u bought🤨. I always take screen shots too but on your advice i will take lots more 🙊. Anyway so nice to see new video of yours this morning, and its sunny today also. Have a great rest of your week. Sending some Irish Luck yoir way for all your future orders 😊🍀🤗

[@violette80]

I totally agree with you regrding every single case you presented. They obviously sent you a different stone on purpose (nb 1) or were poorly organised (nb 2) or just being unprofessional (nb 3) and getting a full refund is completely fair! Also, this might have put you in an akward position if a client of yours was expecting a particuliar item from you. If you had no replacement, your customer would have to wait until you get another stone. The time you had to spend being annoyed and sending mails again and again can never be refunded! You were polite and you stood your ground. You won’t order from them again, their loss!!

[@SP-fy4fx]

This video has so much good info. I took unboxing pictures of my Etsy purchase. Found out stones were missing. Shop owner would not replace. But I have my picture, so off to Etsy for help. Thanks so much!

[@cyramclennan2580]

Thank you for this video! Very helpful! I am impressed how you stood up for yourself! So empowering! And it's awesome your teaching us how to do the same! Thank you!

[@marinaliakopoulou591]

Great video! Topics that seem interesting to me to be discussed: 1. From which platforms or sites we can buy good gems reasonably priced? can we trust Instagram sellers? They usually offer good prices and a wide variety of gems. 2. I have noticed that even local gemstone sellers are not always familiar with what they are selling to you. How can we tell fakes from reals when it is not too obvious? 3. I sometimes buy gems from local sellers that are sold as lots and so i cannot know the kind of each stone as they are not labeled. I can tell that they are real but I cannot identify the kind of gem for all of them, especially the blue ones seem very confusing to me! Are there any good sites or channels that they discuss about gems and the different kinds of them that will help us identifying the differences between them? Loving your work and your videos! Your manta pendants are my favourites, I'm so excited for the giveaway! Keep up the great work ! ❤❤❤

[@tawnyakline9077]

I ABSOLUTELY agree with you! I probably would have taken the additional step of making sure that my followers were made aware of who the seller is so that they have all the info before deciding to make purchases from them in the future. It's nice to give sellers the benefit of the doubt but there ARE those out there who are simply dishonest.

[@laurawilson981]

Fantastic video, really helpful! ❤❤❤ I'll definitely be taking photos in the future! I'd be really interested to learn what you look out for when purchasing gemstones from a new seller for the first time xxx