We live in an increasingly tough world. Scams-both online and off, computer viruses, identity theft, and alright thieves. What is it with people today? While most of us just go about our lives, struggling for our little piece of paradise, while trying not to hurt or cheat others, some people just don't care who they hurt or cheat. I was raised you worked hard for anything you want, that you earned it. And that your word means something. That honesty and integrity are important traits. Obviously they aren't to everybody.
A dear friend was scammed at the Tucson Gem Show. He was asleep when he got a call on the hotel phone from someone saying they were on the way to the show and their truck broke down and they needed money right away. Being a good and decent person, and being not quite alert, he gave them enough information for them to pull the scam off. This is a variation of the big scam ongoing where they call the elderly with "Grandma? I'm in Mexico and I'm in trouble." What grandparent wouldn't respond to that?
Today my daughter who sells horses and advertises online received a check from a guy who wanted her to then send half the money to his "horse shipper" via Western Union. Her mama didn't raise no fools and she fortunately was immediately suspicious. The check was from Bank of America in Georgia, but we do have those here. We went there just to see what they said, and of course the account had a "Do not cash" notice. Interestingly enough in talking to another dear friend, who happens to be a Tucson PD Fraud Detective, even if the name and address of the "horse shipper" seems legit-once you send money Western Union and provide the code-anybody can pick it up without ID, anywhere! He said they most likely weren't even in the U.S.
Here in the rock business we are very lucky. Scams are not prevalent. Maybe because we deal in natural products, maybe because there isn't a lot of money in polished stones, or maybe because of the healing power of stones. :) I'm sure there is fraud in precious gemstones and gold jewelry, and we all know there are a lot of fake fossils on the market, but good people live here in the lapidary world. In fact in 30 years of doing business-I have never had a bad check! Of course I've had to chase some people for my money, but I have never been out and out cheated. Until now. In Tucson 2013 I took a check from Mr. Brad Leith of Mpeccable Global Distribution Company in British Columbia, Canada. Not only did it bounce, but because it was a Canadian check it cost me over $100 in fees. When I contacted Mr. Leith he did respond and say he would make good on it. That was February. He has not answered any more of my emails, letters, or phone calls. Another side note-shortly after the check bounced I was warned not to do business with him-too late! Mpeccableglobal is his website. I post this only to warn my fellow cabochons dealers to be careful!
So friends and fellow rock people-be careful out there. Let's continue to due good business and to treat people well. Just be a little more aware! And Happy Hunting to you all.
www.oakrocks.net
