Thailand does, in theory, offer bargains on gems and jewelry, it's just that
buying them is such a risky proposition that it is not recommended unless
you really know what you are doing. If you are planning to purchase, the comments
below should help to ensure you are not ripped off when buying:
When reading about the gem scam, it's easy to assume only gullible people
get taken in by it. But it is done in such a sophisticated way, with so
many seeming coincidences, that a lot of people fall for it even having
read all the warnings beforehand. Be aware that the con men are not above
dressing in official-looking uniform and even as monks to try and get your
money.
It's easy to get a fake ID in Thailand. If someone recommending you buy
gems from a particular shop tries to show proof that they are from the Tourism
Authority of Thailand or some government department, the ID is bound to
be fake.
It is not really in the Thai culture for a lone person to approach a stranger
or strangers and start a conversation. If 'normal' Thais do just want to
talk to tourists, it is almost always done in a group. Therefore
if you are approached by a lone individual, particularly one who speaks
English well, be very wary. It's also worthwhile looking at what the person
talking to you was doing beforehand, as very few people without ulterior
motives linger alone outside tourist attractions just hoping for a friendly
chat.
This is basically common sense as few people would talk to strangers on
street corners in their home country, but they let their guard down with
the relaxed atmosphere in Thailand.
The Thai government and/or the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) does
not own, sponsor, promote, endorse or authorize any gems stores in particular
and anyone who tries to tell you otherwise is lying.
It is impossible, even for a qualified gemologist, to tell the difference
between genuine gems and a clever cut-glass fake without the proper equipment.
If you buy without getting the gems tested independently, you are buying
solely on the word of the shop.
Real gem shops very rarely offer sales, and 'one day only' or 'export
special' deals are definitely a scam.
If you are buying gems, you're well advised to simply buy for personal
use the ones you like the look of. If you're not already a gem expert, buying with the intention of reselling
for a profit back home is a recipe for disaster.
Never agree to mail gems out of the country, however much the shop
may try and persuade you. If you have been scammed, you may be able to return
the gems and get some of your money back. If they have already left the
country however, you have no chance.
It's worth buying only from members of the Thai Jewel Fest Club, which
is a non-profit orginization set up by the TAT, the Thai
Gem and Jewelry Traders Association, the police and the government.
Members have to abide by a code of practice, which includes the provision
of at least 80% refunds up to 45 days after purchase. The members are all
reputable vendors and though it is impossible to guarantee there won't be
any problems, it is much, much less likely than at a random shop a stranger
takes you to.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand has more
information and a list of members of the Jewel Fest club. A branch of
TAT will also be able to give you more information.
