Help with 11 carat natural Sapphire value

[arty12]

Hi everyone,
I was hoping someone could give me their advice on what they think this sapphire is worth. It looks quite nice in person, not sure if it shows thru in the photos. The problem is it has a few chunks missing from the bottom, not sure what that's called. You can see the indents in the pictures. There's also a very small nick on the front on the top right corner on the front of the gem. The gem otherwise looks clean with a few hairline inclusions, color is very nice. The size is also quite large, 11.50 carats. What is a fair price for this? Greatly appreciate all your help in advance. Thanks!

 

[arty12]

Sorry also should add that it's natural, unheated

 

[Arcadian]

Was it sent to a lab to verify its natural and unheated? I wouldn't just go by someone's word that it is. At that size, always verify via a lab report from a respected and independent colored stone lab.

The color for me is a bit too dark but if you like it, its good for the size. Cut is a big deal and for me dosent really highlight the stone. The nicks on the stone can be a deal breaker if they compromise the integrity of the stone.

IMO you should visit an independent (and trustworthy) appraiser on price. I can't even begin to give a price on something like this, especially not knowing other particulars.

 

[kenny]

I can't guess the value but to maximize the value ...

At that size and color the value could be substantial.
I'd get the chips polished off.
Next I'd send it to http://aglgemlab.com in New York for their full prestige grading report, including the origin (important to some buyers).

Only then would I send it to the right appraiser for a valuation.
Who is that appraiser?
I don't know but I do not it's not an Internet forum.
It's not anyone who buys or sells gems (conflict of interest).
It's a pro who does only gem appraisals for a living and also has expertise in sapphires.

Pricescope has a list of appraisers who are perhaps reputable and vetted.

Near the top of this screen click on Resources.
The choose Appraisers.

Perhaps posters here can recommend a good appraiser for your stone.

Even after getting it appraised understand that gems are not a commodity like gold which has one fixed agreed-to price regardless of whether you're the buyer or seller, a dealer or a bum.
The general public sells gems at wholesale and retailers sell them at retail.
Next some sellers get more for the same gem than some other sellers, with Graff, Harry Winston, Tiffany, Cartier, VCA etc. on Fifth Ave. in NY getting top dollar.

 

[partgypsy]

Kenny I could be wrong but I was assuming he was the prospective buyer of the stone, not the seller. I agree an appraiser from a qualified independent colored gem appraiser could greatly aid you in knowing fair market value.