New Article by Jim Rentfrow: Gems of Afghanistan

Fabulous read! Thanks, Jim.

Hey! Jim Rentfrow is back several weeks now. I hope we see a new article from him here soon!

i recently bought a rhodie cut by one of his students so i too would love to see an update.

Thanks, Jim! This was a fantastic article that I will be posting a link to on my blog, Gem Enthusiast. After returning from a year in Afghanistan in 2008, I started my blog to help educate the soldiers and civilians shopping for gemstones in the Kabul bazaars. I want to make sure all my readers see your article as I think it is a incredible compilation of Afghanistan gemstones. One thing I always tell readers is to stay away for gemstones not mined in the country! I learned this the hard way. My successful purchases were a Tajik spinel, a huge kunzite, a watermelon tourmaline rough, and a handful of cut tourmalines all colors and shapes. I also ended up with plenty of synthetics and simulants, which prompted the writing of my blog and eventually led me to pursue my G.G. and enter the gem trade.

Hello Emily,
Welcome to PS and I hope you'll hang around for a long time. It's great to have gem lovers and lapidaries share their experiences and expertise with us.

Hi Emily,

Thanks for your comments! I will send you over an email through your site as well. I am missing Kabul lately and wishing to go back sometime soon. I heard last night that KIA was hit by a small bombing but that all was well. Its a land of great gemstones and great adventures. It was never a dull moment!

I read it carefully. Thanks Jim for introducing us gems of Afghanistan.