Most jewelers purchase precious stones exclusively through regular channels because they want to assure their customers of gemstone authenticity by delivering certified products. Some buyers, however, are not interested in paperwork. They just want the best rocks. Mr. Dubois caters to that kind of clientele. Arabian princes. Business moguls. Oligarchs from all over the world. They don’t give a f**k about certificates as long as their wives or lovers can wear the most expensive piece of jewelry in the room.
“This isn’t what we agreed on, Mr. Popov,” Dubois says.
“I know.”
He takes off his glasses and points them at the box. “Prince Saeed was very clear in his request. Emeralds, not sapphires.”
“I’m afraid the emeralds are no longer available. The sapphires I’m offering are worth 20
