Today, we have the pleasure of interviewing Leo Varghese, the owner of Nava Gemstones.
Nava Gemstones is a single place to buy high quality, 100% natural and unheated gemstones, as well as custom made jewelry that can be cherished for life.
Please tell us about what it is that you do.
I am a US Military Veteran, a civil service employee, and a world traveler. During my many overseas travels, I picked up a hobby collecting gems. After my daughter Nava was born, I decided to pursue my hobby to the next level and opened the doors for business.
Please tell us about your company Nava Gemstones.
Leo Varghese, owner of Nava Gemstones
We are suppliers of 100% natural and unheated gemstones in the San Antonio area. Whether you’re looking for precious gems to add to your collection or the perfect addition to a piece of stunning jewelry for your loved ones, you’re sure to find the perfect stone or piece with us. We are a veteran-owned business registered with the State of Texas.
Can you please tell us more about your journey?
During my many overseas deployments, I came across bazaars all over Afghanistan and Iraq selling gemstones to my fellow service members and civilians at an unheard price. Most service members/civilians were unaware of the premiums they were paying for low-medium quality stones. Many unknowingly were purchasing low quality treated and/or heated-glass filled gems at a regular untreated/unheated high-quality gemstone price.
After much thought, I decided to take the next step from being a hobbyist to a local gemstone dealer and provide folks quality gemstones at a reasonable price. I named the business after my 7-year daughter Nava, the future owner of the business. Nava means beautiful in Hebrew, so the name I felt was appropriate (i.e., Beautiful Gemstones).
Please tell us more about the gemstones provided by you.
At Nava Gemstones, we focus on supplying gemstones of superior cut, color, and clarity. All of our gemstones are VS, VVS, or IF-Loupe quality assured. All our high-end gemstones and Jewelry are GIA certified, and their birth is registered as an authentic gemstone. So you know you are purchasing the very best in quality. Our pictures are not enhanced with studio lighting or software tricks for a quick sale. Most of the pictures are taken under natural light (in the evening hours) to show its true beauty.
What are the strategies that helped you become successful in your journey?
We are relatively a newcomer to this business, and the competition is intense in this field. To make matters worse, shortly after we opened our doors, Coronavirus restrictions were in place. But we decided to focus on customer service and quality. By the grace of GOD, our business continued to grow. Most of our customers are referrals from existing customers and the high ratings they gave for our services.
Fantastic! So tell us, how can people find out more about you?
You can visit our Etsy store when you are ready to buy loose gemstones or custom design rings.
You can also check out our website and Instagram channel.
Thank you so much for giving us your precious time. It was really exciting to know about Nava Gemstones!!