Begin with the intended use
Explain whether the stone is for personal wear, a specific jewellery design or a collection. If a setting already exists, provide its actual dimensions and relevant design information. Describe the preferred species, shape and face-up appearance without assuming weight alone answers the size question.
For a hypothetical ring project, fitting an existing setting may matter more than a preferred weight. For another buyer, colour may be the first priority. These are examples of different briefs, not statements that a suitable stone is currently available.
Rank requirements and flexibility
Write a short list of essential criteria, then a separate list of preferences. Describe acceptable colour variation and the clarity characteristics you are willing to consider. Reference photographs can help communicate a direction, but should not replace an agreed description.
Explain where you could compromise if the requirements cannot all be met within budget. A change in size, shape or preferred origin is a decision to agree, rather than something the search should silently assume.
- Intended use and any existing setting dimensions
- Species, shape and preferred colour range
- Essential requirements and acceptable flexibility
- Budget and laboratory-testing questions
Ask what the laboratory report can establish
A laboratory report should be selected for the questions relevant to the stone. GIA describes coloured-stone services addressing identity and detectable treatments, with origin opinions available for relevant stones where determination is possible. This does not mean every stone can receive every conclusion.
Agree the laboratory and test type before purchase, and distinguish a requested attribute from a finding supported by the report. A photograph or seller statement is not a substitute for the relevant laboratory evidence. Mentioning GIA here does not imply affiliation or that its report is included.
Compare information without skipping uncertainties
Ask which images, viewing conditions and available documents will support comparison. Record the characteristic each item helps assess and the points still unresolved. Where multiple-light photographs or actual viewing are part of the agreed work, use them against the same priorities.
The sourcing tiers have different selection criteria, while the natural, untreated requirement remains part of the approved offer. Source information and laboratory findings should be considered for the individual stone; avoid converting a general description into a guarantee about an untested candidate.
Separate the service budget from purchase costs
The starting sourcing price covers the service for one gemstone to an agreed specification. The stone itself, laboratory fees, shipping and external costs are excluded. Pairs, sets and additional services require a separate quotation.
Prepare your priority list and budget questions for a Fastwork discussion before ordering. Confirm the search specification, proposed testing and external expenses in writing, so the eventual comparison is based on the requirements you actually approved.
Your next step
A strong brief answers three questions: what must the stone satisfy, what can remain flexible and what evidence is required before purchase? Keep these separate from the cost of the sourcing service.
