After contacting a number of international connections in Europe and the US, the buying group came to an emerald supply arrangement with the operators of a mine based in Brazil.
Interest in the gemstone was tested at the recent Nationwide national conference in Auckland, where a small trial shipment was made available for purchase. The emeralds were reportedly met with great enthusiasm, selling out almost immediately.
“We are exceptionally pleased with this new supply arrangement,” Nationwide director Barry Jackson said. “These emeralds are a much higher quality than what is normally available in the Australian market, and our initial research indicates that they represent exceptional value.”
Nationwide managing director Colin Pocklington added that the emerald supply arrangement was part of the buying group’s efforts to improve access to a range of coloured gemstones.
“We have been seeking a source for high-quality coloured stones at good prices for two years. The emerald source has now been achieved. We are still working on a source for other coloured stones, and may be in a position to seal a deal within the next few weeks.”
Members attending the Nationwide biannual diamond trip to Antwerp, Belgium this month will be given the opportunity to meet the owner of the Brazilian mine and to purchase emeralds.
A range of emeralds will also be available to Nationwide members at the Sydney JAA International Jewellery Fair that will be held in August later this year.
The emeralds
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