If you liked this video, make sure to check out the other from the gemstone series! - How to source gemstones? SUMMARY & tips: ua-cam.com/video/cfnPK91CbVA/v-deo.html - How to find gemstone sellers? Tips from JEWELRY MAKERS: ua-cam.com/video/xrGksdZ6piQ/v-deo.html - How to attend a gem show: ua-cam.com/video/iJyTC2RJIE4/v-deo.html - How to source gemstones, tips from lapidary artist and gem cutter, Mineral Rare: ua-cam.com/video/R8YF8tWbo-I/v-deo.html Let me know what other topics you'd like me to cover!
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 ❤️
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!!
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
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!
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.
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! :)
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.
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!!
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!!!!💖💍💖
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! 💟
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 ...
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.
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
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.
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!!
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.
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.
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.
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.
Great advice!! I also take screenshots to make sure I’m ordering the right stone as I circle and message the seller. I haven’t asked for additional photos from different angles but that is a great suggestion. I think you were spot on with your correspondence with the seller and showed tremendous patience and understanding but stood your ground. Thank you so much for your video!
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!
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 🙏🏻💜
I really appreciate watching your videos where you show your creative process and fabrication of your jewelry! And metalsmithing tips, gemstone talks, small business/packaging discussions, all of that!! I've had to take a break from jewelry making myself due to a spine injury and so it's wonderful to watch you - it helps me to feel inspired and look forward to when I can pick up my tools again.
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.
Thank you so much for that information . I now know how to deal with sellers that don't want to admit they "may have" made a mistake and don't want to fix it.
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.
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.
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. :)
Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge on jewelry making! I've had interest in making jewelry but it wasn't until I started watching your videos that I finally found the confidence to make the leap. Bought my first tools this monday!
I really appreciate you doing this video. I've been hesitant to purchase stones from Etsy for exactly the reasons you covered. Now, thanks to you, I have the steps needed to ensure fair and accurate sales. Thank you! I love all your videos but especially the ones showing your design process, the address looking over your shoulder as you work, and different tool techniques. All the topics you mentioned at the end would also be great videos. 🙏
Keep the videos coming! I love when you show how to make something from start to finish. I have found that most sellers are willing to resolve the issue as long as I am friendly. :-)
Thank you so much! I love watching your videos. You are the reason I start making jewelry! I want to see you more making jewelry. Instead of other jewelers, your video has positive energy and not boring at all. Your suggestions are so helpful! Thank you!
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
I completely understand wanting specific stones. Glad you got these resolved! I'm a screen shot addict, in an information-hoarding kind of way so yes, I agree!
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.
That's really charming and polite from you in each dialogue with customers. Thank you for good cases, which wil help me in the future. I would call it "how to talk with people non-violent way, even if there's not your fault"
Hahaha, thank you so much dear! I try to be reasonable and kind, I have a lot of experience working as a customer service rep, so I try to approach people from a positive angle. It pays off most of the time, kindess goes a long way 😁 but it's also goot to show assertiveness in a polite manner!
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
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
I don't mind your short videos, but I also like your long informative videos. This was very helpful as well as your other gemstone sourcing videos. Thank you for the tips! ☺
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.
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!
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 🙇💕
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!
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.
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.
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”
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🙏🏻
Thank you for sharing your knowledge...your jewelry artwork is beautiful! I just started my metal smith journey so I enjoy geeking out and watching videos of the process. I really love your combination of jewelry and classic art like the Wave of Hokusai but also your own unique designs...very inspiring!
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
Hi, I’ve only stumbled across your videos recently as in today, but am looking forward to watching more! I really like your vibe and how you lay everything out!!
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❤️
Thank you for sharing your advice and experiences! I’m definitely way too trusting of people and wouldn’t even bother to contact anyone because “honest mistake”.
I followed your channels few months already and your video inspired me. I applied a course to learn gemstones which will commerce in Jun. It's because I want to learn more on gemstones from not to be scammed. I also hope you could share more how you choose the types of gem stones and apply to different jewellery based on the properties of the stone.
I love watching your videos. Thanks for sharing what you do and what you have learned along the way. I love watching your days in the studio and metalsmithing tips/hacks.
I really enjoy watching the vlogs where you create your jewelry, but I think my favorites are the tutorials and informative videos like these. Great work as always!
Thank you for the tips 💚 and congrats on the subscriber milestone. I would love to see more process videos, they are always interesting and soothing to watch
I love you work. I have been thinking of buying stones on line, but was nervous about it. I had not realised photos were so important, so this was very helpful. Also, i would love you to do some a videos about putting different stones in a kind of claw settings .so raw, cabochon.etc.. Thanks.
I once ordered 2 spools and 4 sets of beads. It took 2 weeks for the parcel to be delivered, and when I finally got it the spools were nowhere to be seen. When I contacted her, not only did she immediately admit the mistake and apologize, but she also sent them to me with free upgraded shipping!! It only took 3 days to come to me this time. She had also placed a set of mixed beads as a gift. Needless to say, I left an astonishing review and I purchased again and again from this seller! Dear sellers / makers, be honest and helpful from the beginning and it will be a win - win situation!
Exactly! We all make mistakes, it happens! What matters the most is how we solve them, the attitude and willingness to resolve the issue and grow from it. I's so happy that you've had a good experience like this!
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
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.
Another wonderful video 💕..thank you ever so much for sharing all your experiences, even how frustrating they have been for you. You handle the situations brilliantly..you go girl 😘 x
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.
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 ! ❤❤❤
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
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.
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! ❤️
Your work has been absolutely inspiring to me and you tips have been life changing as I begin to experiment with my own jewelry making. I stumbled across you channel as I was doing initial research before I even purchased any supplies to begin creating and it has been such a great resource. I have just started looking into getting gems and once again, you make an amazing and informative video on the subject! Thank you! I can’t wait to see what you create next 💕
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 !??
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?
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!
If you liked this video, make sure to check out the other from the gemstone series!
- How to source gemstones? SUMMARY & tips: ua-cam.com/video/cfnPK91CbVA/v-deo.html
- How to find gemstone sellers? Tips from JEWELRY MAKERS: ua-cam.com/video/xrGksdZ6piQ/v-deo.html
- How to attend a gem show: ua-cam.com/video/iJyTC2RJIE4/v-deo.html
- How to source gemstones, tips from lapidary artist and gem cutter, Mineral Rare: ua-cam.com/video/R8YF8tWbo-I/v-deo.html
Let me know what other topics you'd like me to cover!
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 ❤️
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!!
Thank you! Great advice for any online purchases. I would love to see how to make intricate bezel strips. ☺
Great information! I’m the screenshot queen!
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
I think is super nice the way you’ve resolved the problem with each of the sellers. Glad they refunded you in the end.
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!
Deciding to start my own silversmithing journey because of you
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.
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! :)
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.
Please follow the link in my UA-cam banner to contact me
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!!
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!!!!💖💍💖
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! 💟
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!
my pleasure! I hope that sharing this with you guys will help you avoid similar situations. Thank you so much dear! xx
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 ...
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.
I love you being so polite and nice person as customer too! ❤️
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 🙂
You are never too old and it’s never too late 🙌
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
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.
I would love to see a video on the different stages of patination and how to seal the process.
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!!
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.
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.
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.
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.
I would love if you did videos on beginner soldering projects :) like specific jewelry pieces you think are very beginner-level soldering friendly!
It’s your right to always get your money’s worth👏🏽 I’m glad you fought for it 💜
I am so happy that I discovered you my dear. I am a struggling metalsmith and your videos make me smile and not give up. XO
I always find gem sourcing a bit nerve wracking. Great video!
I love tutorials, and day in the studio and tools unboxing/review videos!
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.
Great advice!! I also take screenshots to make sure I’m ordering the right stone as I circle and message the seller. I haven’t asked for additional photos from different angles but that is a great suggestion. I think you were spot on with your correspondence with the seller and showed tremendous patience and understanding but stood your ground. Thank you so much for your video!
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!
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 🙏🏻💜
I really appreciate watching your videos where you show your creative process and fabrication of your jewelry! And metalsmithing tips, gemstone talks, small business/packaging discussions, all of that!!
I've had to take a break from jewelry making myself due to a spine injury and so it's wonderful to watch you - it helps me to feel inspired and look forward to when I can pick up my tools again.
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.
Glad that you're giving us all these tips and tricks. Been a real help for my growing jewellery hobby! 😁
I;m really happy about it! Thank you so much for watching and being here :) Good luck with your jewellery making!
Thank you so much for that information . I now know how to deal with sellers that don't want to admit they "may have" made a mistake and don't want to fix it.
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.
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.
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. :)
I set my first stone yesterday thanks to your videos!! So grateful for the wisdom and creativity you share with us
Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge on jewelry making! I've had interest in making jewelry but it wasn't until I started watching your videos that I finally found the confidence to make the leap. Bought my first tools this monday!
I really appreciate you doing this video. I've been hesitant to purchase stones from Etsy for exactly the reasons you covered. Now, thanks to you, I have the steps needed to ensure fair and accurate sales. Thank you! I love all your videos but especially the ones showing your design process, the address looking over your shoulder as you work, and different tool techniques. All the topics you mentioned at the end would also be great videos. 🙏
Keep the videos coming! I love when you show how to make something from start to finish. I have found that most sellers are willing to resolve the issue as long as I am friendly. :-)
Thank you Basia for sharing your knowledge and experience, much appreciated 😊
Thank you so much! I love watching your videos. You are the reason I start making jewelry!
I want to see you more
making jewelry. Instead of other jewelers, your video has positive energy and not boring at all. Your suggestions are so helpful! Thank you!
Incredible, Vicky! Thank you so much, it really means a lot ❤️
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
I'd love to see how your cabs turned out!
Edit - I just subbed to ur channel..I'll stop by!
I completely understand wanting specific stones. Glad you got these resolved! I'm a screen shot addict, in an information-hoarding kind of way so yes, I agree!
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.
That's really charming and polite from you in each dialogue with customers. Thank you for good cases, which wil help me in the future. I would call it "how to talk with people non-violent way, even if there's not your fault"
Hahaha, thank you so much dear! I try to be reasonable and kind, I have a lot of experience working as a customer service rep, so I try to approach people from a positive angle. It pays off most of the time, kindess goes a long way 😁 but it's also goot to show assertiveness in a polite manner!
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.
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
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
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!
Great post! This happens a lot to me as a crystal seller, its a lot of hassle for a buyer when this happens ❤️
I don't mind your short videos, but I also like your long informative videos. This was very helpful as well as your other gemstone sourcing videos. Thank you for the tips! ☺
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.
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!
Thank you for being you, and sharing the things you’ve learned along your jewelry making journey!
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
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 🙇💕
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!
Really helpful info - thank you so much Basia. I love these chatty videos as well as your jewellery tutorials.
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.
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.
Fantastic advice! Especially for those of us who are just starting out... congrats on your channel, your videos are very inspiring!
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”
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🙏🏻
Thank you for sharing your knowledge...your jewelry artwork is beautiful!
I just started my metal smith journey so I enjoy geeking out and watching videos of the process. I really love your combination of jewelry and classic art like the Wave of Hokusai but also your own unique designs...very inspiring!
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
You make my learning journey so much easier and less stressfull!! :) Thank you so much
Really nice the way you dealt with all the issues! Thanks for sharing :)
Your videos are not only informational but inspirational!! Thank you for that!
Hi, I’ve only stumbled across your videos recently as in today, but am looking forward to watching more! I really like your vibe and how you lay everything out!!
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❤️
Thank you for sharing your advice and experiences! I’m definitely way too trusting of people and wouldn’t even bother to contact anyone because “honest mistake”.
I followed your channels few months already and your video inspired me. I applied a course to learn gemstones which will commerce in Jun. It's because I want to learn more on gemstones from not to be scammed. I also hope you could share more how you choose the types of gem stones and apply to different jewellery based on the properties of the stone.
I love watching your videos. Thanks for sharing what you do and what you have learned along the way. I love watching your days in the studio and metalsmithing tips/hacks.
I really enjoy watching the vlogs where you create your jewelry, but I think my favorites are the tutorials and informative videos like these. Great work as always!
wonderful, thank you so much for your feedback! I appreciate it a lot :) 🥰
Thank you for the tips 💚 and congrats on the subscriber milestone. I would love to see more process videos, they are always interesting and soothing to watch
Perfect, more process videos coming soon! 😁🥰 Thank you for watching 🙏
I love you work. I have been thinking of buying stones on line, but was nervous about it. I had not realised photos were so important, so this was very helpful.
Also, i would love you to do some a videos about putting different stones in a kind of claw settings .so raw, cabochon.etc.. Thanks.
I once ordered 2 spools and 4 sets of beads. It took 2 weeks for the parcel to be delivered, and when I finally got it the spools were nowhere to be seen. When I contacted her, not only did she immediately admit the mistake and apologize, but she also sent them to me with free upgraded shipping!! It only took 3 days to come to me this time. She had also placed a set of mixed beads as a gift. Needless to say, I left an astonishing review and I purchased again and again from this seller! Dear sellers / makers, be honest and helpful from the beginning and it will be a win - win situation!
Exactly! We all make mistakes, it happens! What matters the most is how we solve them, the attitude and willingness to resolve the issue and grow from it. I's so happy that you've had a good experience like this!
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
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.
These tips are really helpful. I haven't had any problems with purchases so far but I will definitely follow your tips in the future, just in case!
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.
Thanks some great tips! Made my first gemstone purchase 2 days ago so going to use your tips next time
Another wonderful video 💕..thank you ever so much for sharing all your experiences, even how frustrating they have been for you. You handle the situations brilliantly..you go girl 😘 x
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.
so true! Gotta be very careful and always cautios. Thank you for watching! :)
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 ! ❤❤❤
I will always take a screenshot of listings now! Thank you! As for future video ideas - I would love to see more tutorials please 😁
more tutrials are definitely coming! :)) Thank you so much for watching and your comment ❤️
This is very helpful! Thank you!
Glad it was helful! Thank you! :))
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
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.
All you said is right that what makes most of us get tired with the whole thing in tearm of buying of all stone.
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!
Thank you so much for this video. These are very important suggestions that I will surely start to use in my business. Thanks again!
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! ❤️
Please follow the link in my UA-cam banner to contact me
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
Great video! Love hearing about your purchasing experiences so I can learn from them.
Your work has been absolutely inspiring to me and you tips have been life changing as I begin to experiment with my own jewelry making. I stumbled across you channel as I was doing initial research before I even purchased any supplies to begin creating and it has been such a great resource. I have just started looking into getting gems and once again, you make an amazing and informative video on the subject! Thank you! I can’t wait to see what you create next 💕
wow, I'm so happy to hear that, Katie! Thank you so much for your sweet comment. Good luck with your craft and thank you for being here 🥰
Helpful as always Basia ✨ thank you!
Brilliant, thank you for watching Mariana!
That Manta is so beautiful, Thank you for the talk :)
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 !??
Thank you so much for sharing. I will keep that in mind! Very helpful!
Thank you for another great video. When I start shopping for stones to make jewelry I will definitely follow your advice! :)
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?
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!