By David Brough
CHANTHABURI, Thailand – Chanthaburi’s gemstone market gathered large numbers of buyers and sellers packed into tight spaces despite a fierce downpour on a recent visit.
It was “business as usual” for many in the trade seeking to replenish stocks of sapphires, rubies and other gemstones, despite heavy and persistent rainfall at the height of Thailand’s rainy season in late September.
Both locals and visitors from abroad, take seats at tables in the closely packed gemstone market in downtown Chanthaburi, which starts on Fridays.
They fill out paper forms listing their requirements, while passing brokers and sellers, with gemstones in their bags, stop by to offer their stones, and negotiate with buyers on price.
While the numbers of buyers, sellers and brokers were fewer than in drier times, the heavy downpour failed to puncture the desire to do business.
Chanthaburi in eastern Thailand is the Southeast Asian country’s leading coloured gemstone hub, gathering manufacturers, crafters, labs and a cutting academy, as well as educational centres, a museum and retail stores.
