Editor’s Note
This article explores the risks and considerations of investing in gemstones, highlighting the “Marilyn Monroe Effect” as a cautionary tale for uninformed investors. It offers guidance on how to approach such alternative investments wisely.
In search of alternative investment opportunities, some savers end up with gemstones. However, those who are not knowledgeable can easily fall for fraudsters. Furthermore, there are significant differences in returns.
Zero interest rates, rising prices for land and real estate, and high volatility in the stock market are fueling the desire for alternative investments. Consequently, more and more savers are discovering another asset class for themselves: gemstones. But what should one pay attention to when buying these baubles? Which authenticity certificates are recognized? Can one get the stones cheaper in their countries of origin? Which stones promise the highest value appreciation? And is one allowed to wear the investment diamond as jewelry without it losing value?