Column #002 The journey of GemTreeJapan's gemstones
For those who have yet to hold a GTJ gemstone, and for all of you who already enjoy them,
I want to share how GemTreeJapan gemstones are created and why they possess such "extraordinary sparkle."
Here, I will introduce the long journey it takes to deliver our creations to you.
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1. Sourcing and Selection
At GemTreeJapan, we meticulously select loose stones and rough gemstones from trusted suppliers worldwide, primarily centered in Bangkok, Thailand, the gemstone capital where our office is located.
We comprehensively observe transparency, hue, crystal condition, and inclusions, selecting only "good crystals" that are worthy of the subsequent processes.
The former founder of GTJ, in his active years, called himself a "sourcing artisan," conducting research that maximized the advantages of living locally. Through his unique negotiation skills, he built deep trust with suppliers and supported GTJ with what can truly be called artisanal sourcing.
I, Ilmo, the current representative, have inherited this skill and spirit, forming the foundation of our sourcing that is the origin of our high-quality creations.
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2. Stone Check by a Gemological Laboratory
Stones judged promising at the sourcing stage undergo a preliminary check at our affiliated gemological laboratory (EMIL GEM LABORATORY / EGL).
This acts as a safety measure to ensure we do not provide customers with incorrect stone types or treated stones, by confirming the possibility of being unheated, the presence or absence of treatment, and the integrity of the crystal.
The information obtained here is a crucial process, providing important judgment material for subsequent cutting plans.
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3. Cut Design Planning
To maximize the individuality of each stone while avoiding unnecessary weight loss, we design cuts that aim for both "beauty" and "value."
• Quality of sparkle
• Ideal proportions
• Position of inclusions
• Weight preservation
By considering these factors from multiple angles, a unique "haute couture" form is determined for each individual stone.
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4. Cutting
Based on the design, GTJ's main cutter, Piacchan, begins shaping the stone.
In the case of rough stones, I sometimes perform the preform myself.
By finely adjusting angles, facet arrangement, and optical axis correction, and carefully avoiding excessive cutting, we achieve GTJ's unique cut that maximizes brilliance.
In the final stage, a polishing specialist cutter joins in to meticulously finish the stone.
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5. Inspection
The finished loose stones are carefully checked for:
• Facet symmetry
• Condition of polished surfaces
• Presence of windows
and other fine details.
First, the cutter performs an initial inspection, followed by my thorough inspection of every stone with a loupe.
Stones that do not meet our standards are recut or repolished, and it is not uncommon for a stone to undergo several reworkings before completion.
Treating all stones with the same standard, regardless of type or size –
This is GTJ's unwavering commitment.
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6. Obtain Sorting Report (EGL / EMIL)
For creations that require it, we obtain a sorting report from EMIL GEM LABORATORY (EGL).
EGL is a trusted gemological laboratory that GTJ has relied on for many years. If there are any questions, we discuss them to ensure that the sorting report contains only accurate information.
This is a very important process to ensure that customers can purchase with peace of mind.
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7. Packaging
Each stone is carefully placed into a GTJ original case, designed by our founder to showcase the stone's beauty most effectively.
The stone type and weight are noted on the outside of the case, allowing them to be beautifully displayed as part of a collection.
Detailed labels, including the origin and cutter's name, are affixed to the back.
This process prioritizes not only protection during transport but also the aesthetic enjoyment of the stone in your hands.
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8. Photography
We photograph the stones under various light sources to accurately convey their charm.
We capture the inherent beauty of the stones while ensuring there is no discrepancy with the actual item.
At GTJ, to properly showcase the beautifully finished cuts, we photograph at extremely close range, which can sometimes make inclusions appear larger than they are to the naked eye.
Precisely because we operate online, we take the utmost care to ensure you can choose with confidence.
This magnified photography also serves as a final check, doubling as a re-inspection.
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9. Product Description Creation
We carefully document the color tone, inclusions, optical effects, and cut structure.
In special cases, we consult gemological laboratories and conduct additional research to deepen our understanding before writing the descriptions.
Some pieces also include the story behind their creation, allowing customers to feel a deeper connection to them.
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10. Campaign Planning & Execution / Exhibition & Live Streaming
One of GemTreeJapan's philosophies is:
"We want to make high-quality gemstones as close to free as possible."
This is our aspiration.
In addition to regular listings, we host numerous campaigns such as "lucky bags" and auctions, all born from the desire to make high-quality gemstones "as close to free as possible."
Once preparations are complete, our creations are displayed on our website.
We also showcase our creations through live streams and videos, primarily on YouTube and Instagram.
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11. Shipment from Bangkok & Delivery from Japan
Creations carefully packed in Bangkok are shipped to our Gunma office in Japan. Upon arrival in Japan, their condition is re-verified before dispatch.
We provide tracking numbers and responsibly manage the process to ensure safe delivery to your hands.
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12. Delivery
And so, the gemstones meticulously finished by GemTreeJapan arrive at your doorstep.
Every step, from the birth of the stone to its delivery, is carried out with utmost care, respecting the stone's individuality and envisioning the joy of those who will hold it.
There are still many untold aspects, but we'll save those for another time.
May GemTreeJapan's gemstones continue to shine as a part of your life.
GemTreeJapan
Ilmo