I first met this source at the 2014 Tucson Gem Show. A language barrier coupled with the quick pace of the gem show, makes it difficult to discuss sensitive or complicated topics. Every year I speak with the owner, often asking questions about the same stones, but getting slightly different answers. The communication problem makes me highly selective about which stones I will buy from her. If the stone is from mainland China, and I can independently determine its likely mining origin, I will buy it since short supply chains are important. If a stone is from another country, I am more cautious.

In 2020, I became friends with a German wholeseller who has personally visited the Hong Kong supplier and was able to provide me with detailed information about working conditions.