Pricing Your Items
Pricing is part experience, part intuition. Here's how to get it right and build a successful selling strategy.
Key Pricing Factors
Understanding what influences specimen value helps you price competitively while maximizing your returns.
Species & Rarity
Consider the mineral species and how common or rare it is
- Research similar species listings
- Consider classic vs. common locations
- Evaluate unusual crystal forms
- Check for striking colors or formations
Aesthetics & Quality
Visual appeal and specimen quality significantly impact value
- Crystal clarity and luster
- Overall visual impact
- Damage or repair history
- Matrix and associations
Size & Dimensions
Size matters, but so does proportion and display potential
- Compare similar-sized specimens
- Consider display appeal
- Evaluate crystal-to-matrix ratio
- Account for shipping considerations
Provenance & Extras
Origin documentation and accessories add significant value
- Original locality labels
- Previous owner documentation
- Display stands or cases
- Collection history or story
Pro Pricing Tips
Research the Market
Look at completed sales of similar specimens, not just asking prices. Consider recent market trends and seasonal variations.
Be Transparent
Honest pricing builds trust and credibility. Include all relevant information about condition, treatments, or repairs.
Consider Your Reputation
New sellers might price slightly lower to build feedback and establish credibility in the community.
Factor in All Costs
Include your acquisition cost, photography time, listing fees, packaging materials, and shipping costs.
Pro Tip: Transparent Pricing Builds Trust
Transparent pricing builds trust and credibility — and brings buyers back. Be upfront about any factors that affect value, including repairs, treatments, or uncertain provenance.
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