Never pay cash.
Watch your hand luggage at airport security.
You may find a bigger selection of high quality sapphires overseas.

It’s fun to shop overseas. Sifting through local marketplaces looking for bargain souvenir’s to treasure for a lifetime, just don’t sift for high quality sapphires. If you are think that just because you went all the way to Burma, you’re going to get a great deal, forget it. Fine gemstones are valued as internationally recognized commodities and prices around the world will reflect that fact. However, you may find unique styles and cuts to a particular region, or a much larger selection of bigger stones. But, there is nothing like the sentimental value of having purchased a beautiful, mystical gemstone from its country of origin. Just make sure to take this checklist with you.

1. Know your stones
2. Get recommendations from the hotel concierge and tour guides, and get their names in writing.
3. Only purchase from a traditional store. Don't be fooled by Bazaar bargains
4. Never pay cash. You get purchase protection and a better exchange rate from most credit cards.
5. Figure out the purchase price in your home currency.
6. Consider having the stone appraised before purchase, or at least before you leave the country you’re visiting.
7. Get a receipt with a money back guarantee written directly on it.
8. Don’t shop for gemstones at duty-free shops.

With these few guidelines, you can have fun rummaging for the last hidden treasure in the world. Even if you don’t find it, you’ll have a great time trying, and who knows, you might even bring home a little trinket to be treasure for generations to come.

Answer to quiz: False