FAQ's

How long has The Mine's Eye been in business?
The Mine's Eye has been in business since 1983 and currently resides in Central California.

What are your credentials?
Lynn Agabashian, is a Graduate Gemologist that received her diploma from the Gemological Institute of America.

Who do you work with?
Lynn Agabashian has worked with the same loyal contract artisans for over 27 years.

Where do you get your materials?
They are mined over the United States and all over the world.

Do you only work with natural materials?
Yes, We work with natural gems, mineral, aggregate and organics. However, if a customer requests synthetics or simulated gems we will locate and use these upon special request.

Are the artisans you work with primarily based in California?
For over 25 years we have collaborated with a loyal group of talented American bench, metal, cast and fabricators. We also incorporate materials into our designs using the skilled lapidaries from around the world...

What tradeshows do you attend?
We primarily attend The World Trade Show in Tucson Arizona.

How did you meet most of your business associates?
My career began in 1983 as a tour guide for Gems of Pala, Stewart Lithia Mine Company while studying Gemology at the Gemological Institute of America.

How was your experience working for the mines?
The best experience from above ground and below... I learned well... from the Mine to the Mall!

What made you decide to work in the crafting side of gems and minerals?
Making a living doing what I do best... Creating unique designs and eclectic arts at fair and affordable prices.

Is most of The Mine's Eye work handcrafted?
Yes and we also assemble some manufactured components which may be incorporated into fabricated designs.

What is the primary goal of The Mine's Eye?
To educate the consumer and to encourage a greater appreciation for wearable art.

Do you do appraisals?
Yes

What is the base price for an appraisal?
It is $75.00 and up depending upon the degree of difficulty.

Do you identify gemstones?
Yes

When did you really refine your skills in design and crafting?
Practical experience. The most refined pieces are generally those that are cast. There will always be imperfection with hand fabrication.

How has your formal education influenced your work?
When you know your product and your industry well, it can only increase the consumers confidence in us.

What do you love most about the gem and jewelry business?
What I love most is when we have done our job well and our customers are happy with the outcome.

What makes you different from the average jewelry store?
We are not only a jewelry store providing one of a kind unique designs. We are here to inform, educate and offer our diverse talents to the consumer.

Is it labor intensive and cost effective to hand fabricate and design jewelry that could seemingly be cast or machine made?
It varies. Most serious artists view their creations as a labor of love. If not, we would be hard pressed to receive the price for the hours of time spent on many of our creations. Other pieces which are designed for simplicity may be easily crafted or assembled. However due to the quality of materials used these can fetch a higher price.

Do people recognize the work that goes into each original piece?
A lay person with artistic eye or fellow artisan does. It is all about educating and appreciating.

This is a consumer friendly organization that welcomes any Q & A - feel free to contact us via e-mail or phone.

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