Independent Faceters

[cutjoy]

Is it profitable to be an independent faceter in the US when foreign cutters can cut cheaply?  I am a new independent US faceter looking for comments/ideas.  I hear that larger stones can be profitable.  Also is anybody interested in the new Graves MK V that is coming out?  It looks like it could be a good machine when they finally start selling it.

[crescentgem]

I think there is room for everyone. how ever much the Asian cutters cut we still have disadvantages. 

* Our shipping and customs charges are high Each parcel costs around US $ 100

* Long turn around times. shipping alone takes close to one month.

* Need Large quantity of stones. ( over 200 g )

Its all about marketing your plus points and abilities. Do a SWOT ( Strength , weakness , Opportunity , threats ) analysis and draw your marketing plan. get to know who your customers are and go for it.

[cutjoy]

Thanks for the info crescentgem.   One big advantage I have is I can cut any shape I want.  But learning all the cuts takes time. Luckily I enjoy it.  My favorite Asian stone is Burma ruby.   Only problem is it is not cheap.   The largest rough I have ever seen for this stone is about 2 cts.  It is not easy to find.