I am a bit concerned about the way Mustang uses artisinals now. I find it surprising that the inventory had proportionally fewer large rubies than Gemfields auctions. One would expect the proportion of sizes to be similar. So where have the larger stones gone? Perhaps the way Mustang is paying the artisinals is wrong and they are keeping many larger rubies they find to sell to illegal buyers, because Mustang is not offering them enough for them. No matter how much control you place on artisinal activity, you cannot prevent them slipping the odd stone into their pockets on the working face. I am only speculating. I love the fact that Mustang incorporates artisinal activity and keeps the locals onside, but procedures need to be completely reviewed.
MUS Price at posting:
10.5¢ Sentiment: Hold Disclosure: Held
