What are the rules applying to people that are taking gemstones and jewellery home from holiday in thailand?

I am training in silversmithing and wish to buy some gemstones and other jewellery from reputable sources that I can find in thailand. If anything over a certain amount attracts taxation then what is the amount and how much is the taxation? Has anyone ever bought anytrhing like this in Thailand before? Any words of warning? All advice appreciated, thank you

You're going to love Thailand. The limit is $10,000. If you are purchasing with the intent to sell, taxes definitely apply, but I am not sure what the percentage is.

Buying gemstones. Here's the secret: Chantaburi. All anybody is doing there is buying and selling gemstones. But this place is not for the faint of heart nor the casual buyer. These are where serious dealers go. I learned a lot from sitting at other people's tables and watching.

The second best place is Silom road in Bangkok. But in both of these places, you need to know what you are doing. You can get ripped off or the best deals - even from the same store, depending on how they size you up.

Learn about Thai culture and try to take a course in gems. If you can't take a course, then read every page on this website. Lots of info on how to get good deals on gems.

If I remember correctly, it is $500 limit?

You may bring in items for personal use or as gifts.

The minute you say you are selling any of the items, the red flag goes up and you get the special line.

Try the Lao border or Laos itself, they make the finest silver jewelry that is sold in Thailand.

Maesai in the ChiangRai province also has good jewelry, loose stones may be found in both places. The Burma border may be good for shopping for gems, I did see some shops in MaeSai, and I also saw lots of fossils for sale.

Avoid the "gemstone tours" and traps of BKK!

Jewelry can be "worn out of the country" and "gifts" can be declared as tourist articles.