Cutting a 700 carat rare valuable gemstone [video]
A viral video of a 700‑carat morganite being hand‑cut into a 294‑carat gemstone sparked debate over how such stones are valued, after an auto‑generated transcript appeared to understate its appraisal by orders of magnitude. Commenters dissect the economics behind the ~$80k asking price, contrasting raw stone costs, labor, and perceived scarcity with claims that gem pricing is largely marketing. Others focus on the craft itself—manual versus automated cutting, the role of software and 3D scanning, and health and safety practices—while questioning whether the artistic, hand‑cut aspect is what ultimately justifies the premium.
Pricing, Appraisal, and Value
- The finished 294 ct morganite is listed around $80–90k (marked down from ~$192k).
- Confusion arose from the video transcript: subtitles showed an appraisal of ~$2.3k, but listeners heard ~$192k; commenters conclude it’s an auto-transcription error.
- A “sample appraisal” on the website refers to a different ring, not this gem, causing further confusion.
- Several people estimate raw stone cost in the low thousands to tens of thousands; exact figure is never given and likely omitted to hide margins.
- Some cite a rough retail rule of thumb (~$300/ct for cut morganite) to justify the asking price.
- Debate over “fair market value”: some emphasize it’s simply what buyer and seller agree on; others argue this doesn’t justify extreme markups if there isn’t a real market at that price.
Craft, Process, and Tools
- Many enjoy watching a master craftsperson work, noting his satisfaction at the end and the decades of skill involved.
- Surprising to some that the process is mostly grinding and polishing rather than “cutting.”
- Several note how much is done “by feel,” and how the rough stone’s shape and inclusions drive decisions.
- Amusement at using WD-40, tissue, and diamond powder to polish such an expensive stone.
Automation vs. Hand Cutting
- Discussion of 3D scanning and software to optimize orientation and yield; some say software is used for certain diamonds.
- Others argue an experienced cutter can get close to optimal and that maximizing carat weight is only one of many goals.
- Broader debate spills into AI and art: is machine-made output equivalent to human artistry? Opinions diverge sharply.
Aesthetics, Utility, and “Scam” Accusations
- One strong skeptic calls the pricing and marketing of gemstones (including diamonds and morganite) a scam, arguing they lack utility and rely on manipulating buyers.
- Others counter that beauty, rarity, craftsmanship, and signaling status are valid sources of value, much like fine art or luxury watches.
Health and Safety Concerns
- Viewers are uneasy about the proximity of bare fingers to spinning polishers and blades.
- Some worry about skin contact with methyl salicylate and inhalation of WD-40/oil mist; recognized as potentially irritating or harmful with heavy exposure.