PRECIOUS STONES 49
whole surface must show diverse colors at the same time, producing sharp flash-lights as it is moved.
Since
the chief supply of diamonds in South Africa has come into the hands of
a syndicate, they have been carefully graded and a definite price made
for the various grades. In consequence, the price of cut stones in any
country is now very even. And as there is an abundance of material, but
little variation occurs at any time from a short supply. Pearls also
are very constant, though they have advanced steadily of late as a
result of the increasing demand for pearl necklaces. But the supply of
fancy stones is so irregular and uncertain, and the qualities which
count for value so varied, that definite grades and prices are
impossible. Value is a question for individual decision. After an
observation which extends over some years, it is the opinion of the
writer that too much is seldom paid for really fine stones. When a find
of some precious stone is made, the man who pays a liberal advance for
the best specimens, will inevitably find that he has the most value for
his money. Buyers very rarely pay the real value of a pick of any lot.
Occasionally a pocket of fine tourmalines is discovered in Maine,
aquamarine and golden beryls in North Carolina, Montana rubies out
West, etc. When first found they are sold at very low prices; then, as
the pockets are exhausted, and the transient supply absorbed, the
demand naturally forces up the price of the few stones floating about
in the market.
As
a business speculation it pays to buy a gem stone whenever it is
offered at a reasonable figure, for the proportion found is always
small, and the number of those who appreciate them constantly
increasing.
