Diamonds, fresh-water Pearls, vibrant Ruby, and deep blue Sapphire have been found across Thailand. There are rich gold veins beneath volcanic folds and Thai soil in Chatree, Phuthep, and Nong Khai areas. Would you like to pan for gold in Thailand? One of the remaining places you can do this is in a river in the Ron Thong subdistrict, Bang Saphan. For your information, airlines generally allow 500g of gold in your carry-on. 

The use of gems in Thailand can be traced back to the Ayutthaya Kingdom, a three-city/state union in the 13th and 14th centuries. The Kingdom changed briefly in 1767, but the gem and rare material trade industry only grew. The gem district in Bangkok can be overwhelming. Ask a friend for a jeweller referral. Ask why they prefer them. 

Any region between China and India, or the Indian ocean has been a trade route wherever traversable for centuries. The ongoing and brutal conflict in Burma has disrupted and cut some of these lucrative resource and material trade routes, bringing the only attention to the war. Maybe you just heard about it.

Gold bought in Thailand is an unmistakable yellow hue, due to its 96.5% purity. In the U.S., gold is typically 58.3-75% pure (14-28k respectively). No wonder the gold shops seem so bright here. Have you ever heard of the Thai/Saudi diamond dispute? 

Skills have been successfully handed down from generation to generation. Local artisans still craft some of the world’s most spectacular claw, cluster, halo, or invisible gem setting for the best prices. Hands down (sorry for the pun) shop locally for your rings. 

Chanthaburi is known for little other than gems. A short ride through the area will encourage you to buy a farm. Trat is nearby, and the sublime island of Koh Chang is a ferry ride away. The world buys 70% of rubies from Thailand. Living here, we know that most things of value in Thailand are exported and sold. 

You may or may not know that Thailand has a booming nonsurgical skin treatment and therapy industry. Thailand is a long-time surgical/nonsurgical cosmetic procedure destination. That industry is supported by diverse health and wellness resorts and retreats in Thailand. Go to your jeweller with fresh hands and beautiful nails. Then get ready for an Instagram photoshoot. 

Back to the Thai/Saudi trade story. The abridged version is that a Thai janitor was suspected of “liberating” over $20 million in gems from a Saudi Princes’ palace, which included a 50-carat blue diamond. Some of us lived here through this. Full restoration of trade relationships has already happened, but it is an interesting story to read about. Get to know more about the country we call home.

I helped set up a smelting operation in Thailand and had to learn a lot about how things work here. This report provides excellent insight into the criteria for opening a gem business in Thailand. As a consumer, you can learn what to look for in a reputable diamond or gold business in Thailand. 

When you find a certified, licensed, and insured business with skilled tradesmen, build a relationship. You can return to them for engagement, wedding, graduation, anniversary, gift, or personal growth/promotion event jewellery, cleaning, and assessment for sale or trade. 

Your fingers should not look fabulous alone. A bracelet will bring bling to your hand, while an adorned necklace will make a statement. Wearing subtle pendants can radiate sparkles of class and sophistication in any style.

Utilize the lustre, refraction, and brilliance of your gems and jewellery to accentuate your life.