Source: http://johnbetts-fineminerals.com/jhbnyc/feedbck1.htm
Timestamp: 2019-04-25 08:05:37+00:00

Document:
Customer comments, referrals, press reviews of John Betts, merchant of fine gems and minerals.
This site was voted by mineralcollecting.org as the most diverse mineral website on the Internet with, "richly varying mineralogy / geology content that is always fresh and up-to-date and perpetually useful to others."
Comment: "Over the years we have accumulated some very fine specimens of Analcime from yourself but they all pale in comparison with the giant Canadian one in today's parcel. A magnificent specimen, can't wait for your next update". M.M.
Comment: "Once again, thank you, the crocoite is perfect and the analcime, calcite and quarts on prehnite is exactly what I wanted.I love your site and all it has to offer. You re the best." Tiffany V.
Comment: "I love the fluorite from Tennessee my husband got me for our anniversary. It is everything I wanted in this beautiful fluorite. Thank you for getting it out as quickly as you did. "
Comment: "We received from you a specimen of Pyromorphite from Phoenixville. It has got to be the most magnificent specimen of this species we have ever seen. The photos on your website did not do it justice." M. Martin in UK.
Comment: "Thank you John! I just added two nice Diamonds from the North Cape Province, South Africa to my collection. John's service is impeccable! My new prized specimens were described honestly and photographed perfectly. I am a very happy collector! For everyone seeking to buy collection grade (or jewelry grade) Diamonds, John Betts fine minerals in New York is the place to go!" Michael P.
Comment: "I just received my order of beautiful Copper from the Ray Mine in Arizona and Native Silver with Acanthite from Batopilas, Chihuahua Mexico. Both arrived in perfect condition and I am thrilled & honored to add these awesome minerals to my Native Elements section of my collection. These beauties will add much "spice" to that group. These and all your minerals are "show worthy" pieces at bargain prices. Thank you a million times! 5 stars +++++ for this dealer!" M.P.
Comment: "Thanks, John. The sapphire just arrived in fine shape. Very nice and the color and clarity were well-represented by your photographs. Another satisfied customer!" D.D.
Comment: "For the better part of this past year I've been searching for just the right "raw and natural" diamond for inclusion to my mineral collection. After searching many sites I found just the right diamond with John Betts. It is a reference example of a perfect octahedral gem and in my opinion the finest example John had in the under 1 carat range.
Comment: "My diamond is undamaged with no dark unsightly inclusions and is a cuttable gem-grade example. The service from John is exemplary and the shipping was extremely fast. I am pleased beyond 100%! My new diamond looks fabulous in my collection. John thoughtfully provided a circular - black cushioned display case with my order. Perfecto in every way. Now I will begin my happy dancing!!" Michael P.
Comment: "Thanks very much; it arrived today. The wavellite specimen is great, and your packaging is outstanding! Cheers, Don"
Comment: "I recently purchased a piece of Tanzanite from you. I'm not a jeweler, I'm a mineral and element collector. I purchased the cheapest piece you had as my funds are limited but I am so far beyond satisfied. My collection, concerning gems is still missing rough diamond, topaz, and ruby but, when my funds are sufficient I will purchase from you again. Your honesty in describing and providing images is/was more than impressive. I can and will recommend you to any and all collectors! " Joshua Covin.
Comment: "The mineral arrived Saturday. The pictures on your webpage accurately and fully described the mineral specimen. This was the first time I purchased a mineral on line and I am not disappointed. Thank you." Rich G.
Comment: "Minerals got here this morning. The real stones are so much more beautiful than the pictures and the pictures were fantastic." Rick & Bonnie R.
Comment: "This piece of Gypsum is really eye catching. Never thought something so ordinary could look so good. Am glad it was available & that I bought it. You know, when you retire, I will probably stop buying minerals. I don't know if I could trust another dealer as I have you over the years. And life goes on. I do wish you & your wife & friends many happy moments of peace & quiet wherever you go. It is my pleasure to be one of your customers." Carol C.
Comment: "I have been looking at your website for quite a bit (years) and wanted to let you know, that I appreciate the work you have put into this as well as your business. Your website is beyond most on the internet and a wealth of information. I can see your dedication, passion and hard work that you have put into this field. I cant tell you the amount of hours that I have spent in the past 10 years researching and reading articles with a good focus of material I found on your website, while comparing rocks and minerals that I have found/acquired." Kelli C.
Comment: "While the dealer was traveling, he kept me informed about when he expected to ship the entire time. Item was VERY well packed, and as far as as 'S go, it's a FINE one...exceptional quality and service." M.W.
Comment: "Good Afternoon Mr. Betts, This morning I while I was walking my dog I was pleased to find that the mineral specimen arrived! I must say that I was extremely pleased with how fast it showed up, as well as the quality of packaging and care taken to ensure the mineral remained safe. Everything arrived as intended, and I cannot thank you enough for the lovely mineral; it's even more splendid in person and I am eager to display it. I also enjoyed the mineral's tag that provides all the information about it! Once again, thank you for everything, I can see myself buying more minerals from you in the future. Sincerely, " Ryan Z.
Comment: "I think its your combination of photographic artistic background and mineral knowledge that cause me to like the things you offer far more than anyone else I see offering minerals. Id guess that 95+% of my mineral money goes to you, and mainly because of aesthetics, quality, and honesty. That last one is what caused me to be interested in you in the first place. It was so refreshing to have someone tell me about any flaws, the actual size of the largest crystal (have to guess for almost everyone else), etc. I said (and still say) theres a man who is doing his best to make sure I know what Im buying  how refreshing." Don R.
Comment: "The Samarskite-(Y) specimen arrived in good shape today. You did an outstanding job of packing it. I surely wish others would be as careful as you are. That and the high quality for reasonable cost are why you are still in business, though." Bob M.
Comment: "I spent a couple of evenings searching for these gifts and you have, far and away, the most professionally presented, easy to use web site." Gerard M.
Comment: "It was great to finally meet you today at the Springfield Show. I have been following and doing some minor purchasing from your site for years. I'm not a major collector by any means, but when I buy online, you and only one other are the dealers I trust (Geologic Desires). You actually price specimens at Earthly rates :). Thanks for the fair prices, keen insight and the time you took with me today. I will enjoy my pink elbaite for years to come and it will help brighten up my black ugly collection. Also, I purchased your dravite-uvite from Powers Farm (#44538) a while back and it's uniqueness, quality and historical value are tops. It's still my favorite specimen for these reasons. Hope your trip back to NYC wasn't too hectic." Sincerely, Bryan M.
Comment: "Just received my 3 mineral specimens today in great shape. Very pleased! Excellent!" Kirby J. K.
Comment: "I've recently been going through my collection to prepare some specimens for sale, and wanted to tell you that your database of minerals (Online Mineral Museum) is the best I have found online. You seem to have a specimen pictured from just about everywhere for every species! It is truly impressive. Now if I could only get prices, too, it would sure help me figure out what stuff is worth! But even without that, it is a wonderful resource and I just wanted to thank you--it must have been a heck of a lot of work!" Wynne K.
Comment: "John I am enjoying your recent shipment, (not putting some of them in my protective display cases yet just so I can enjoy them under magnification and varied lighting!!) Keep those reasonable prices, and prompt shipping!! You rock!! (P.S. I'm also enjoying "building" my next order with you - thanks again for working with your less financially affluent customers!! "Angel V.
Comment: "Hello John, I received my order last week and it was beautiful as always. I love to collect these specimens but am not deep in the pocketbook. I appreciate the less expensive listings. Keep up the good work. Thank's again." Ed M.
Comment: "Hello John: I received all the specimens and Id like to let you know that all is well. Id like to thank you for having the skills to acquire these specimens from around the globe, for your prompt and efficient sending of these, and your courtesy and pride in customer service. Put all together, you certainly are exceptional. Thanks, take care and Merry Christmas" John C.
Comment: "Dear Mr. Betts, Just a note to tell you how happy I am with this specimen!! Quite a sizable piece for the price, SUPER FAST DELIVERY....THANK YOU VERY MUCH!!" Robert P. A.
Comment: "I just made my first purchase from John Betts Fine Minerals. The malachite piece I ordered was very well represented in the photo on the web site. I am very pleased with my purchase. Delivery was prompt."
Comment: "Great specimen. Description & photo was exact. Price was good. Packaging was perfect. Great mineral dealer . I hope to buy more great pieces. Thanks." Terry E.
Comment: "I am so happy with my purchase. Its exactly what i wanted. Not only that, but the shipping was incredibly fast and the packaging left all contents unharmed. Also the advice for lighting of my collection has been very helpful as well. Pleasure doing business." James F.
Comment: "very nice item...good service...nice doing business with you !!certainly until later !!many thanks !!" Dave B.
Comment: "Two more beautiful minerals. Great seller. Fast service. Excellent shipping. Recommend Mr Betts to all interested in quality minerals of any size." Carol C.
Comment: "Quick, effective, and more important, professional service. I usually don't buy online but John Betts is one of the very few dealers I trust." Gerard M.
Comment: "Mr Betts excellent minerals & great service keeps me coming back for MORE!!!" Carol C.
Comment: "John--Got it--totally happy; impeccable service, stone as described, fast service. I appreciate your professionalism." Otto P.
Comment: "Specimen well received. Thanks and besides very nice mineral specimen also good service." Jan C.
Comment: "I received the gold specimen this Saturday. THANK YOU SO MUCH. I'm very pleased with it and my girlfriend was also stoked!!! I just want let you know you have the best mineral page I've found on the net. Besides having some gorgeous, well kept minerals, you site is well organized and easy to navigate. Hope to do business in the future with you. P.S. congrats on twenty years." Sincerely, Scott S.
Comment: "Comment: your mineral arrived today. its in great condition. The whole transaction was very quick and easy. a very great seller. would like to buy again in the future."
Comment: "I received my order today and am very happy. The specimen I ordered is fragile, and the wrapping and packaging protected it completely. I choose John Betts for aesthetic specimens and descriptive labels."
Comment: "I got Imperial Topaz from you yesterday. The delivery to Japan was very fast, and the package was very good. The topaz was not as redish as the photo shows but it was sufficiently good one. I am satisfied. Thank you. " Y.K.
Comment: "I received 2 Fluorite specimens. These are very excellent!! In Japan,it is difficult to get this like Fluorite specimen. I am satisfied very much. Thank you." M.O.
Comment: "Received the specimen of Polybasite & Pearceite in today's mail. Arrived in perfect condition. Extremely happy with purchase: I shall be definitely purchasing minerals from you again. Thanks so much"
Comment: "Thank you John! The diamond I purchased from you arrived in the mail today and I must say I am completely satisfied. The diamond is one of two that I intend to use for a wedding ring. My wife and I hated the idea of something ill got being the symbol of our love, so the rough stones are absolutely perfect. The delivery was prompt and the product exceeded my expectations. I have never made jewelry before, this wedding ring will be the first. If it is a success and I am inclined towards future endeavors I will without doubt return to you for my mineral needs. My wife and I thank you very much. I hope to do business with you in the future. Sincerely, Ian and Alena Carnes."
Comment: "I recently made my first purchase from John Betts and found the services provided to be excellent. Delivery was within 2 business days from date of order. John Betts provides excellent order status information. The product was packaged properly and insured and arrived in excellent condition." Cynthia C.
Comment: "Greetings Mr Betts, The order just arrived safely and we are very, very pleased! We appreciate the quality of the diamond crystals and your care in packaging."
Comment: "I AM HAPPY. I LOOKED FOR NATIVE GOLD THAT IS 5 CM X 3 CM. IT IS BIG GOLD. I found it after10 years finally. I bought it from John Betts. Thank You ." Dominic F.
Comment: "After searching for over two years for a nice Rhodo from Kazakhstan, I found it here!! And what exceptional piece it is, I'm extremely pleased!!! My highest recommendations for this fine gentleman. Many thanks, Ignacio Rios Jr."
Comment: "Wow, that was quick, I received my specimens package today. I love all three of my miniatures, they are of good quality and are really gemmy to me. I am pleasantly surprised that you included the little stands for each of the miniatures as well. That's really adorable. Appreciate your efficient and quality service...Elizabeth Q."
Comment: "Excellent service, great photography, accurate description and superb specimens.What more can anyone ask for!!!" K.C.
Comment: "I am doing a school report on mineralogy. I am 12 years old and this site helped me out a lot. Thanks."
Comment: "I can highly recommend every aspect of my dealings with John Betts, from specimen description, price, packing and mailing the most convenient way to Europe." Andrew P.
Comment: "Fantastic service, crystal arrived in just 5 days from New York to the UK. Beautiful specimen just as described and pictured. Many many Thanks," E.B.
Comment: "Mr. Betts: I got the order. The diamond and demantoid look great. The pictures and descriptions were very accurate. I'm especially happy with the diamond - great stone, great price, and great locality. Thanks." K.
Comment: "I have purchased from several internet mineral dealers but you are the first since I have been back in the UK. I am not only happy with the sample (which glows nicely in my fluorescent display), but very impressed with the prompt service, especially since we are nearing the holiday season. I am sure you receive many thank-you messages from satisfied customers so now you can add me to that list." M.C.
Comment: "Nice, prompt service. the specimen was just as pictured and came very well packaged."
Comment: "John, I'd like to tell you how pleased I was with all the help you gave me with the back issues of magazines that I was looking for. You have a wonderful website and a lot to offer collectors. I shall be back. Many thanks." Helen F.
Comment: "I really like your website. It has been very informative to me. It has helped me with school projects and given me tips on rock collecting. I'm very glad you made this web page. Sincerely, Tina L. 5th grade"
Comment: "I have purchased from several internet mineral dealers but you are the first since I have been back in the UK. I am not only happy with the sample (which glows nicely in my fluorescent display), but very impressed with the prompt service, especially since we are nearing the holiday season. I am sure you receive many thank-you messages from satisfied customers so now you can add me to that list. Cheers, Martyn"
Comment: "Just letting you know that my hematite crystal arrived safely and that I like it. I've been trying to take decent pics with my new digital camera and soon realized that It will be a long time before I get to the quality that you've attained. The post card you sent is absolutely gorgeous." Bill D.
Comment: "I would like to say again that your web site is absolutely wonderful. The key items that I like about your web site is the fact that it is updated every week. It is alive, vibrant and responsive. It is such a contrast to some of the never updated, dead and boring web sites that exist out on the web. I also like the information that you post on it. It really does help the mineral collector. Keep up the great work! I hope that I can meet you some day at one of the mineral shows." Grant G.
Comment: "The service was excellent. Very personal considering I am in the UK and everything was done by e-mail. Very fast and secure delivery." Garry B.
Comment: "Just a note to let you know that specimen #10084 (Cerrusite from Italy) arrived in perfect condition. The specimen looks just like it did on you website photo, something that can be said for your sites pictures. Some sites skimp on their presentations with grainy low resolution photos." M.H.
Comment: "Greetings John, I got the latest shipment(barites). They were great! I am always happy with what I get from you. Your pictures always show the mineralspecimen accurately without enhancments. So what ifyou make a few mistakes,as you said there are so manydifferent points of view you can't please everyone all of the time but you sure please me! Thanks again."
Comment: "Trying to find something about minerals. Your site it was the first I chose. I was astonished. Even though there are a lot of sites to see, I'm sure your is the best. I cannot find the words to tell you that your site is wonderful, interesting, on short ...HIGH CLASS!" Eli.
Comment: "This is my first mineral recieved through the mail and I am pleased by the service. I appreciated your candid advice about judging size by drawing a picture to scale. You run a fist rate operation and I am looking at several items at hyis time. The prehnite was packaged very well and arrived undamaged. Thank you for prompt service." D.J.B.
Comment: "Compared to the photo I saw, the specimen was much more attractive than I thought it to be. I also recieved the specimen in a short amount of time. I was very pleased with the service and the specimen. I look forward to doing more business with you. Thank-you." R.S.
Comment: "Just a note to say I loved your site, it's absolutely fabulous! I spent hours there and plan on returning." PaulaAnn B.
Comment: "Thanks for the terrific service. This order was received Saturday, Oct. 7th. Both orders I have placed were delivered two working days later. I also appreciate your sending the cards for minerals in first order and for the 10 percent discount. You were recommended to us by the rock shop proprietor in North Conway, NH, and I can see why. We appreciate the quality materials, the rapid service, and a first-class web site." Paul R.
Comment: "I received my first specimen today and it exceeded my expectations. Even though there was a slight delay due to Post Office error, all aspects of the transaction were handled promptly and professionally. John took care of every detail as promised. I highly recommend this site to anyone interested in minerals or purely for the aesthetic value of the photography." Robin C.
Comment: "There are several things that prompt me to check this website every week. 1) The presence of specimens from 'unusual' localities. 2) The reasonable prices. 3) In particular I am attracted by the high quality of the photographs. One senses that this is indeed WYSIWYG. There are a number of other dealers I bought things from over the internet where I have had to rely on their reputation, primarily because the photos are not of the caliber of the specimens being added. I am quite pleased." B.
Comment: "As usual, prompt service and specimen is exactly as described and pictured. Many thanks." Dave L.
Comment: "Outstanding customer service...very quick to respond to questions, great products and prices, packaging and delivery. John is always looking for ways to make the experience a memorable one. Highly recommended...five star all the way!!!!" Steve M.
Comment: "I have gone back to college to get my Web Masters Certification and in one of my classes each student was asked to select a web site which he or she considers to be the top web site in their field or interest. I listed you as having the best web site on minerals and the teacher used your site as a class project for analysis. Your site was graded on the following: content, appeal, use of graphics, quality of graphics, navigability, readability and addressing your intended audience. The grading curve is 1-5 and you received a 5 in every category with a minor addenda in readability. Readability is a 5 but presentation was discussed. The font colors makes it hard to read easily against the black background on the smaller monitors with lower resolution. Anyway, every student found your site most interesting and since I am the only mineral collector in the bunch, I thought you might like to know how you stacked up with the non-rockhounding community." George K.
Comment: "The specimen arrived this morning. Sound and safe. I have to say that they never never make it this quick, but this is great." from a customer in Ireland.
Comment: "Your website is still one of the best on the net - good pictures, fair prices and lots of information." Ian A.
Comment: "I was up late tonight and stumbled on to your site. Nice selection and superb specimens." Jim I.
Comment: "Exceptional specimens at great prices. Great web site and service. It couldn't be better." A.S.
Comment: "I purchased a speciman last week from John. It was my first purchase form him, although I have been viewing the site for some time. I was very pleased with the response time, it was very fast. The item I purchased looked just like the image I saw on my screen. Also the size was just as listed. I am very pleased and will continue to buy more." Jeff B.
Comment: "I was very pleased with the service that I received when ordering from this website. The photos were excellent, and depicted exactly what I received! I would gladly order from this website again, and highly recommend it to any other person!" N.C.
Comment: "The Malachite sample (#8922) arrived on Monday and it is better than expected. Great specimen. Thank you very much. I'll be visiting your web site more often and looking forward to placing orders in the future. Thanks very much." Jim P.
Comment: "This site is truly enchanting. The quality of your crystals are second to none." Angel.
Comment: "Ordered two minerals from John. The specimens are great and were mailed promptly. The prices are also right. Great service and photos." Leonard B.
Comment: "The stibnite arrived in good condition. I love the way you packaged it. I've been telling friends to look you up on the web. I'm extremely happy with the piece. Thanks." Pat R.
Comment: "I ordered a copper specimen from John. Photos are excellent. Service, prices, convenience and everything is top of the line. The item I received is excellent." Leonard B.
Comment: "Superb service, VERY carefully packaged! The specimens I ordered were shipped quickly and great care was taken to ensure that they arrived in perfect condition! Many Thanks!" Mike S.
Comment: "I recently made a multiple purchase from John for the first time. The specimens are splendid and exactly as described. Shipping was handled promptly and items well packed. I will be a repeat customer." Frank K.
Comment: "Great job in packing and getting the specimens to me quickly at minimal cost. Your webpage is easy to navigate and save the collector of specific localities a great deal of search time. Thanks!" Gary G.
Comment: "This is just a little note to tell you that my wife and I are very pleased with the specimens that we have received from your site. I have been all over the net last night until early morning from site to site. I've seen many specimens and prices and I before I log off, to finally give in to my tired eyes, I want to express thanks for the specimens that you sent. You present an excellent, easy to navigate site with many listings in sorted galleries with professional quality photos. There's a lot of sites out there that would probably do a lot better if they invested half the time you have spent on yours. Keep up the good work." Rich & Jan B.
Comment: "The specimen of Prehnite from the Jeffrey Mine, that you selected for me arrived safely this morning. The specimen is fine and I shall keep it. Again, thank you for an excellent and prompt service! Best regards," Hal C.
Comment: "Our order (#13509, Edenite, and #13030, Siderite) arrived today in fine condition. We're very pleased--the pieces are as good or better than described on your website. We look forward to doing business with you in the future." Edward L.
Comment: "I received the Emerald specimen #13535 this morning in fine condition. I am VERY pleased. I have always enjoyed your site since I first found it last year. I check every Tuesday. The piece came amazingly quickly and it is beyond what I had pictured in my mind. The color is even better than the photo online. This may be common, but I have confidence that your excellent photos are about as good as one could hope for online." Douglas R.
Comment: "Just wanted to let you know my mineral specimen of Natrolite arrived today in excellent condition. Beautiful. Thanks." Sandy G.
Comment: "I received the rutile from Parkesburg, Pennsylvania, yesterday. It arrived safe and sound. I had to gather up my socks after I unwrapped it though. It is a superb rutile twin from this classic eastern U.S. locality. Thanks for sending it to me." G.G.
Comment: "Stilbite from NJ arrived yesterday in perfect condition. Its a great specimen thank you very much. Best Regards from Portugal." Ricardo P.
Comment: "Thanks, John, for the fast service. The scapolite crystal, in particular, was really nice - even better than your picture." Gene W.
Comment: "The two items I ordered - Corundum var. Ruby, nos. 21606 & 21637 - arrived safe and sound on Saturday, July 5th. Both specimens were magnificent. Thanks again." Paul S.
Comment: "The crystals arrived yesterday afternoon. They are just beautiful and I am very happy with them and with your service. I was also rather smugly pleased to show them to a friend who felt I was taking a risk buying them based on a web photo. She had to admit that there was no dissembling in the pictures and that the crystals looked just as splendid in person as they had on the web. I look forward to doing business with you again in the future. Very truly yours -" Robbyn K.
Comment: "The specimen arrived yesterday (a very quick delivery to Germany). Both the rhodochrosite and the ruby crystal are exactly what I wanted and what I had imagined from the photo. I am very satisfied and I will keep them, of course. Thank you very much. I will keep on looking at your site every Tuesday. Sincerely," Jutta B.
Comment: "I received the rutile from Parkesburg, Pennsylvania, yesterday. It arrived safe and sound. I had to gather up my socks after I unwrapped it. It is a superb rutile twin from this classic eastern U.S. locality. Thanks for sending it to me. Sincerely," Grant G.
Comment: "My first Betts' order arrived yesterday and I sincerely wish you could have been a fly on the wall.
Comment: First, having transacted a great deal of Internet mineral purchasing, I can say, without a doubt, your love of collecting showed in the very way you had the specimen packaged. I have grown so used to rolled paper towel as "protection" that seeing the way you had the Agate packed, I knew before laying eyes on it, it would be intact.
And, finally, our language fails me so that I doubt I can fully express my utter delight when I saw, in person, the lovely little Quartz. I could sense its wonderful "antiquity" and feel all the human history that came together in that one little stone; and I immediately knew this was the particular specimen that I had long awaited to add to my collection.
Comment: "In an e-mail confirming availability, you noted my purchase of #21952 - Calcite with Pyrite a bargain. Well, now having seen the mineral in person, I must contest ... bargain indeed#@! - more like an absolute treasure! - it is so very otherworldly - so beautiful, I can hardly take my eyes off it! Thank you!
I am supposed to be the all grown-up-executive-type but I must say, the longest, hardest day I have ever had at work was yesterday! After picking the package from the Post Office and then, having to wait until the end-of-day to go home and open it! - my behavior was more like that of a kid the night before Christmas!
That "kid" action continued as I opened each specimen, and once again, your careful packaging was worth your effort inasmuch as even the little, delicate, crystal tuffs on the Millerite made it here unscathed! Thank you!
The "pedigree" Dolomite on Quartz is giving that awesome sense of antiquity - that certain knowing that thousands of human eyes have taken in its beauty and wonder, and now, it is here, in my home ... well, this is quite humbling, to say the least.
Okay, then, I have said enough - just want to add one more Thank You. I do so look forward to the day when out meeting will be more memorable for you than what we had in Springfield. Only time will tell if this is to come to fruition. Take care, and thank you one more time for the tremendous joy you put into the box!" Joyce M.
Comment: "Comment: I found the specimens to be exactly as represented online, with meticulous packaging and prompt delivery. My son is a budding collector and I will definitely search this site first for special gifts for him." Denise H.
Comment: "Once again a very fast international service, excellent packaging, and a super specimen. Many thanks John, will keep an eye out for any other Cornish specimens to buy from you." Su F.
Comment: "For someone with such a high reputation in the mineral business, it must be kinda hard to keep up with one's self. However, I believe John "out- does" himself on just about every mineral delivery and not just the one I bought today. Many Thanks John" Mike D.
Comment: "Great product! Very pleased with my purchase and I will make more purchases. Product is well packed and shipped quickly. Feel confident about making a purchase." Robert L.
Comment: "I was pleased with the two pieces I purchased and you have some beautiful pieces. I feel many or them are beyond my price range though." Fran S.
Comment: "Excellent service - specimens speedily despatched and received. Also well packed."
Comment: "Prompt service. Exactly as pictured and described. Well packed for shipping. Thanks." Steven B.
Comment: "I am new to the hobby of digital photography and found your article quite helpful; thank you for making this information available." Maureen V.
Comment: "Analcime specimen #13616 arrived in good shape several days ago. It is just as I expected it to be based on the photo and description, so I am fully satisfied. Thanks. I like your site and expect to be ordering from you in the future." Jay M.
Comment: "John, The monazite arrived yesterday. It's a great piece, looks even better in person! Thanks for the speedy delivery." Josh from FL.
Comment: "The specimen arrived promptly, safely and as represented. I am exceedingly pleased with my entire experience with your company. The site is terrific, the prices seem fair and the service was excellent. I will be happy to do further business with you. I'm also looking forward to seeing your display in Stamford in two weeks or so. Thank you." M.B.
Comment: "The Galena crystal has arrived safely. I was looking at the low relief crystal pattern on the main faces, and it looks better first hand than the photographs were able to capture. Thank you." Lance A.
Comment: "Hello, and thank you for the lovely mineral. I received the dioptase that I ordered from you safe and sound . Ordering with credit card makes it very easy and I appreciate that. I will look forward to surfing your site again." Stephanie W.
Comment: "The cerussite from Tsumeb (#12505) arrived in good condition. I was especially impressed with the excellent wrapping job. Price and quality more than lived up to my expectation's. This specimen will find a good home in my collection. Thank you." C. B. - Plymouth, Mn.
Comment: "Specimen received was exactly as shown on website photo. Packaging was excellent and is how I would wrap my own specimens." Paul Y.
Comment: "Thank you so much for sending our order so promptly and safely. We received the mineral today and my husband is thrilled! He is quite happy with the quality and there was no damage from shipping. Thanks for the kind letter - we were more than satisfied with the order processing - everything was quite easy and your quick response was much appreciated. Hope you enjoy your weekend and thanks again:-) Sincerely, Andreas & Eva P."
Comment: "I am preparing a list of "Gemstones for Sale" sites for a Dutch magazine, with the occasional side trip to an interesting mineral site. I have seen approx. 1000 websites the last two weeks. This is what I wrote about John Betts Fine Minerals site: "Without doubt one of the most beautiful websites on the entire Internet." I think that should do!" Bill M.
Comment: "Received my first pieces and was very satisfied with them and the speed and efficiency of the transaction. Looking forward to ordering more pieces. "Harlow H.
Comment: "Hi John. I received the hemimorphite specimen here in UK, all ok, very satisfied with all aspects, as my first order from you. Will be ordering again when the right specimens comes along." Steve R.
Comment: "The Tremolite var Hexagonite piece arrived today. That is a beautiful specimen; a real pleasure for the eyes and worth every penny." Carol C. Pittsburgh, PA.
Comment: "Thank you for the Azurite. It arrived Thur, 25 April. I am very pleased with it. The first class mail service was very fast. The price was very reasonable." Jim N.
Comment: "Wow... I've never seen so many pretty minerals, in my whole life. I'm a junior collector my-self, I mainly collect hematite and geodes but all minerals are accepted into my collection. I am very pleased with your collection." Cheyenne M.
Comment: "Great website, great service, great prices. John is a true professional and it was a pleasure to purchase from him." Lisa A.
Comment: "Love your site!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" Chris R.
Comment: "While I lack the knowledge and experience to comment on price and quality [except that John's gotten half of my mineral business on the web], the service was excellent [very prompt, with totally professional packaging], the website is a visual feast with incredible photos, and the functionality of the site is the best I've seen. Nonetheless, I have a suggestion: ordering info should be entered automatically in the order form, by the click of an 'Order' button, rather than requiring transcription [of potentially lots of data] by the customer! Overall, a top-notch operation." Bruce S.
"My mineral specimen arrived safely a few days ago, and I would like to thank you for your fast response to my order. I couldn't believe it when the mineral arrived - in Japan, too! - just a few days after I placed the order! I don't know how often you handle international orders, but you do a very good job, I think."
"I am also very pleased with the quality of the mineral. I've been checking up on your web site for quite some time, waiting for the right mineral to appear. I'm a novice collector, (interested in garnets, especially floaters), and am looking forward to future garnets that you post on your web site."
"Thank you again, for your quick response to the order."
Comment: "Very easy transaction. Thanks for the great morganite, it was better than the photo suggested. This is definitely the place to shop for minerals. I recommend the weekly new listing list." Alan B.
Comment: "Hi John, I just received my first order. Thanks for the super fast shipping. Your site is great, will be placing more orders in the future. Thanks again!" Ted G.
Comment: "During my recent trip to Maine and New Hampshire, many mineral dealers and collectors had good things to say about you. You seem to have quite a reputation!" Steve H.
Comment: "John, thanks so much, my order arrived very quickly and all specimens from Lazulite to a superb Vanadinite were expertly packed. The specimens exceeded my expectations - I will be back for more !" Mary M.
Comment: "Mr. Betts: This is my first purchase from you, a fine rutile piece, and I want to express my satisfaction in every way with my purchase. The specimen is beautiful, more beautiful than I had expected. Both in regular viewing as well as in using light and magnification the piece stands out as pure quality. This is definitely the start of an ongoing association. Your prices are so reasonable that it will be possible to own many of the pieces you display. Their selection shows great taste. As a macro photographer, I can't wait to turn my lens on this piece. Enough. I think you get the idea. Buying rocks gives me a high and this one makes me very high indeed."
Comment: "One of the best online merchants that I have ever ordered from. The product I ordered is of good quality. The service is excellent!" Ross K.
Comment: "I got my rocks this morning - superb. Nice to see that the very specimen I get is featured on Mindat.org website (your pics have veritably conquered that site!) Thanks for that - I guess I'll be back for more!" Dave H.
Comment: "I received your parcel last night..(smokey quartz geode) ordered Sept.25th. Thank you so very much.....I love it!!!!" Barbara S.
Comment: "Recently my husband purchased a diamond crystal from you that I had chosen from your website. Mr. Betts, I can't find the words to tell you how enraptured I am with my specimen #23393! There have been times when I use my loupe and lose myself in it for twenty minutes or so at a time (and it's about 5.5 mm square!) Thank you so much for your quality website and service. I hope to be able to acquire many more of your specimens in the future. (After successfully financing a trip to Vancouver with my son to celebrate his university graduation!) Thank you so much for everything. You have exceeded my expectations in every way." Nora Lee F.
Comment: "I received my order within days. Thanks, John, for excellent diamond crystals and excellent service." D.K.
Comment: "I have ordered over $2000 dollars worth of crystals and minerals with over 30 different types from John Betts. I have checked all the other sites and none compared to the quality and guarantee that John has. I have asked him over 2 dozen questions a day and he answered them the next day. I am very happy with the crystals I have received so far. The pictures that are taken of the items do no justice. I almost didn't get the calcite var. butterfly twin because it looked dull, but when I received them I was amazed by the quality and color. John is a business man as well as an educator. He has worked with me to get my order filled extremely fast because I wanted them before my sons Christening. I know this sounds like a paid advertisement but this is my experience. Thanks John. I am extremely happy." John H.
Comment: "Just received my second order. The specimens took my breath away; the photographs capture just a hint of the beauty of the stones. I have become, after just two purchases, a permanent customer."
Comment: "The specimen I purchased was shipped promptly and in excellent condition. Since I work with a vast array of unusual minerals and the transaction was quite smooth, I will most definitely continue to do business with John Betts - Fine Minerals." Carolynn G. L.-H.
Comment: "Just letting you know that I received the mineral specimens that I purchased from you, that they were in A-1 condition, (good wrapping job!), and that I am quite pleased with them. They are a nice addition to my collection. I look forward to ordering from you again soon. Best wishes," Dan M.
Comment: "I just started collecting minerals for about two months now and I have been to just about every site there is to see. John's site is the only one with new specimens every week, worth looking at. All of the other sites are stale and stagnant with inferior items. I have bought many items in these two months and I have received all my orders within 3 days or less. Everything is packaged very well with no broken specimens. Since I am new to this hobby I have asked thousands of questions probably one for every dollar I spent and I have always got a response even though how ridiculous it might have been. Every Monday is a night before Xmas waiting to see the choice minerals the next day. Also with John the mineral you order is the one you get. Thanks John for all your help" John H.
Comment: "I think thare are much better minral sites out there than John Betts all you PEOPLE out there go to other sites DON'T bother with jhon betts minerals . His minerals are R and F they are the wurst that has been extracted. I say this. Jhon Bett's minerals are BAD BAD BAD."
Comment: "My order of calcite arrived Monday in excellent shape. I am very pleased with the quality of the stone as well as your attentive and prompt service. I look forward to ordering more stones from you in the future. Thank you very much." Germaine E.
Comment: "I received the specimens today. Due to your excellent packing they arrived in good condition. I am really very satisfied with my purchase; the minerals are exactly what I looked for. This was my first deal with you and I am pretty sure that it won't be my last one. I am looking forward to receiving your update information every Tuesday. By the way, the whole transaction was very fast (it took only three days from USA to Germany)." Jutta B.
Comment: "This is a great site to order, view and talk about fine minerals.Great Work John!" Scott A. K.
Comment: "My first time purchasing from John Betts and I will certainly purchase from him again. Item arrived quickly and was exactly what I wanted. Thank you so much." Suzanne A.
Comment: "A most informative site for the beginner and the experienced mineral collector.Will be recommended to all our to visit on the internet and we will have the opportunity to visit state side ,many beautiful pieces.We envy your collection,and your knowledge in the DATA BASE.Best of luck for the future on your site. The old Australian $ is very sick at moment BUT, this is one site we will be watching congratulations." N.D.L.C. Inc, Lapidary Club P.O. box 69 Nunawading Vic, Australia.
Comment: "I just wanted to say, I think you have the best organized site on the Web. And you make it very convenient to check out your latest offering, which I appreciate and do faithfully every week. You get more of my attention than probably any other dealer, which is what you want, I suppose." Brent M.
Comment: "Thank you for sending the malachite after azurite pseudomorph specimen from Tsumeb (#5839) to me. It is a very good specimen for the price and the locality. It has found a good home and will be placed in the Tsumeb suite of miniature specimens." G.G.
Comment: "Without question one of the top mineral dealers on the 'net. Item was as accurately described, well packaged and promptly shipped. I have no reservations about purchasing from John again." Dave L.
Comment: "An excellent site and and very well put together, having a mineral of the week in as an excellent idea and the fine quality of the photos. I particularly enjoy the informative articles."
Comment: "I received the Elbaite and Quartz specimen yesterday [Saturday] in excellent condition. I am impressed with the speed with which you filled the order; I sent an email requesting the specimen on Tuesday, and it arrived on Saturday!" W.B.
Comment: "I think you're site is great. Good prices, wonderful pictures. I especially like your articles. It's obvious you really love minerals and like sharing your knowledge. I'd love to see more articles. Especially regarding the state of the hobby. What's hot. What new minerals are out there. Future classics, etc."
Comment: "I just purchased my first "real" gem from John's site. It arrived and it looks much better outside in the light than I ever hoped it would just from the photo online. I'll be checking his site out first from now on when I'm searching for that new wonderful stone to set my collection apart. Thanks for the chance to purchase a unique and classic tourmaline."
Comment: "John, the diamond in matrix arrived safely. That is a type of specimen I thought I would never own." Thanks, Dan.
Comment: "John provided excellent service. I purchased two gorgeous faden crystals which are fairly rare. They were both better than expected and reasonably priced. I highly recommend this great web site -- it's a real gem!"
Comment: "Your page is the best minerial site I've seen. Your photos are really good and it is very easy to use. Nice job. I'll try you out."
Comment: "Just a note to let you know you have one of the finest web sites that it's ever been my pleasure to stumble upon. Well organized, easy to navigate, stylish, nice use of color and some of the finest photographs I've ever seen for rocks and minerals............... I tip my hat! (or g-pick and shovel if you prefer)." G.C.
Comment: "I just want to tell you that the speciments arrived, and I am still very satisfied....Thanks! Best Regards: J. Mortensen from Denmark.
Comment: "Hi John! My order arrived yesterday in beautiful condition! I also wanted to let you know I appreciated the reasonable shipping charge! Some people truly charge an arm and a leg, and I don't order from them often. Especially when shipping costs about half of the mineral I'm ordering! Thanks again! " Nicole.
Comment: "My order was shipped and arrived very quickly. The specimen was in perfect condition and just as pictured on the web site. The design of the site made searching for the right specimen easy and interesting. I will definitely be a return customer." Matthew K.
Comment: "I'm a first time buyer, and new collector. I must say what fine minerals they are. And I'm totally satisfied in every way with John Betts fine minerals.I will be doing much more business with John." Chris C.
Comment: "What Beautiful Minerals You Find & Sell! Your Prices Are Fantastic & Your Service Is exceptional. Thanks For Just Being You!" Carol C. in Pittsburgh, Pa.
Comment: "I was very happy to find that my small purchase was treated with as much respect and care as if I had bought the most expensive item on the site. I was very impressed, not only with the Wulfenite itself, but also by the speed with which I received it and by the excellent packaging. The specimen was quite small and delicate, but was wrapped so carefully that there was not the slightest bit of damage. I am a first time buyer, and I will definitely shop here again."
Comment: "My Wulfenite specimen was received safely. It's lovely. Thank you so much for your speedy service and top quality packaging." Diane C.
Comment: "First time order with John Betts-Fine Minerals and I am totally pleased with the entire deal. The Crystal is excellent! Your site is a joy to behold, as well. Thank you so much for your fine professional company!" Nancy C.
Comment: "I looked for Rhodochrosite for hours and the best specimens and the best deals I found here."
Comment: "I was very happy with prompt delivery and careful packaging."
Comment: "I was very pleased with my purchase and the way in which it was packaged. Nice specimen for the price. I will definitely buy from Mr Betts again."
Comment: "Very Quick delivery. Excellent communication. I love your site, easy to use. Excellent information on the minerals I bought and prices were very good. Thank you and I'll be back." Edward M.
Comment: "Received my specimen today. As usual, John has provided a superior mineral in a very speedy and professional manner. Thank you."Ed in CA.
Comment: "Thanks John- First time customer here and I could not be happier with my beautiful tourmaline slice. What a relief to see the item actually look as good in person as in the photograph. All the best, Joe" Joe H.
Comment: "Hi John, Specimen is in. Nice specimen for the money. Good example of typical light seagreen aqua most often seen before heat treatment. Thanks, John"
"On occasion, when I become aware of a Web site that happens to catch my attention, I'll mention it here. Actually, this idea was inspired by a site I visited today. This is a site that I had visited on occasion in the past. However, I am not what people often call a Web Surfer. That is I do not spend hours just looking at sites on the Web, I only look at sites when looking for something or checking out a site that has been re-ported to be of interest in some way.
The site that caught my interest today was that authored by John Betts under the title of John Betts Fine Minerals. John is a subscriber to the Mineral News, and is a frequent poster of information on the rocks-and-fossils and rockhounds mailing lists. I commend him for the effort he puts into providing information and helping others.
Even though it is the site of a mineral dealer, the most obvious part of the site is that which provides information. I hadn't looked at it in a few months, and was surprised to see how the information section had been expanded. He has articles, many authored by himself, some authored by others, on cleaning minerals, obtaining locality information, etc. Much of the information is exactly what the beginner needs; and one part of that, which is the main part that caught my attention today is: Gem & Mineral Research, How to Get Answers to Our Questions.
This page links to other pages with information on where to look for information: books and magazines, Bureau of Mines MasMILS CD-ROM, internet links, USGS Geographic Name Server, Street Atlas USA, etc. There are pages on Cleaning Minerals, and more. The categories are: Mineral Collecting Localities, Reference, Your Collection, Humor, and Online Articles by Other Authors.
This is a site with a lot of information, especially for the beginner. There are other sites with information for the beginner as well as more advanced collector. When I get to it, I will mention some of them here. Some are dealer's pages and others are pages of interested and excited mineral collectors and rockhounds. Whereas most of the dealers' Web sites are there for the purpose of selling specimens, some dealers have the time and foresight to provide information."
"Like everything else on the Web, the amount of material out there about minerals and mineralogy is staggering. So let me start out saying that the sites I'm mentioning in this week's feature are the barest introduction to the fieldno, the fields. Because whatever you want to focus onbuying mineral specimens, finding your own in the field, identifying minerals, learning about their chemistry, stretching your brain with crystallography, researching the spiritual qualities of different minerals, looking up industrial facts, or just downloading pretty picturesyou will click your way into a dizzying supermarket of sites."
"For mouth-watering mineral pictures, you can't go wrong with Bob's Rock Shop. This site is packed with pages and links to the wider world of rockhounding, and if that's your hobby, then you could center your whole online life here. Many other sites, like John Betts's, are smaller but just as rewarding."
"Be sure not to miss John Betts' "Mineral Galleries" home page. Although it is ostensibly a commercial website, it contains easily some of the most professionally executed and attractive photographs of minerals anywhere on the World Wide Web! The specimens change frequently (Come on! he's selling them, fercrisake! This is a "commercial site, after all!), but they're all beautiful and very good representatives of the individual mineral species. It's a good place to spruce up on recognizing the commonest minerals!"
"John Betts Fine Minerals - John Betts collects his own minerals in the field, writes about them for industry journals and sells them online. His articles cover everything from field trips to tips for the beginning collector."
"John Betts Fine Minerals Rated as a Top Site"
"This site features minerals from old collections, unusual locations, new discoveries, and classic localities. Includes articles, a mineral show calendar, a list of out-of-print books, and quality pictures of fine mineral specimens. A well-designed and informative site."

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