Tourmalines, Opals, charm China, US Markets

Gemstone cutter Alexander Kreis of jeweller Sonja Kreis anticipates stable demand for Oregon sunstone, golden rutilated quartz, green and red tourmalines and tanzanite in 2015.

“Our list probably differs from those of other gemstone-cutting and trading companies. Our customers have a different gemstone preference,” Kreis said in an interview. “Oregon sunstones have always been sought after. The golden rutilated quartz, for its part, is favoured for its strong character.”

Apart from these two stones, Kreis said customers are always scouring the market for blue, green and red gemstones. “Green and red tourmalines and tanzanites are making waves in the market. China and the US are the strongest markets for coloured gemstones. Germany, of course, is also one of our most important markets,” he added.

“Our list probably differs from those of other gemstone-cutting and trading companies. Our customers have a different gemstone preference.”

Alexander Kreis

Consumers have also turned their attention towards “organic” cuts and shapes, the gemstone cutter said, adding that carved gemstones are popular as each would have a unique character.
Kreis said China will continue to fuel growth in the coloured gemstone jewellery market in 2016 as consumers become more discerning when buying coloured stones as a luxury item and form of investment.