I'm Joe, founder of Gem Dragon Auctions. Gems and minerals have been part of my life for as long as I can remember, and this auction house is the culmination of decades spent building relationships across the global gem trade.
At Gem Dragon Auctions, we specialize in curating exceptional gemstones, fine jewelry, carvings, cabochons, mineral specimens, and premium faceting rough. Our mission is simple: offer remarkable stones with integrity and provide the kind of customer service that keeps collectors, cutters, and designers coming back.
Before launching Gem Dragon, I built Joe Henley Rough & Gemstones into a trusted name for high-end faceting rough. That experience taught me something valuable—when you combine access to great material with respect for your customers, everything else falls into place.
Running Gem Dragon isn’t something I have to do. It’s something I’m privileged to do
I’m Zak, head of customer service here at Gem Dragon Auctions. If you have questions about bidding, shipping, or consigning, I’m the one who’ll get you answers.
Over the five years I’ve been with the company, my role has grown to include managing inventory, overseeing shipping, keeping the back office running smoothly—and loading every auction you see on the site. We’re a small team, and I wear a lot of hats to help things run cleanly behind the scenes.
You can reach me at: gemdragonauctions@gmail.com
Hi, I’m Maria. I handle quality control, photography, and content creation for Gem Dragon Auctions. I’ve been working here for a year now—and it all started when I visited the office, bought some rough from Joe Henley, and ended up joining the team!
I’ve been involved with minerals since 2018, back when I was living in Japan. After moving to the U.S. in 2021, I started faceting stones myself. That hands-on experience helps me evaluate rough and understand its potential—especially when sorting or photographing stones that don’t always show their full beauty on camera.
Originally from Russia, I spent many years in Japan before landing here in the States. I speak Russian, English, and Japanese—and when I’m not working with gems, I’m usually hanging out with my two bull terriers.
I'm Sue—Joe's wife and Grace's mom—but I also handle all things HR at Gem Dragon Auctions. From payroll and benefits to hiring paperwork and compliance, I work behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly. I also keep all our consignment paperwork organized and make sure consignment checks go out on time, so our partners stay happy and paid
Hi, I’m Aun, and I manage our Bangkok office. I handle administration, shipping, export logistics, and a bit of accounting—keeping things organized and moving smoothly on this side of the world.
I joined the gem industry in 2015, starting out with a high-end jewelry designer before finding my place with Gem Dragon Auctions in 2021. What I love most is that no two days are the same—and I’m constantly surrounded by the beauty of gemstones and fine jewelry.
Outside of work, I’m passionate about sports and love exploring the world by motorcycle with my husband
Hi, I’m P'Ae. I manage communication with gemological laboratories and handle the packaging and labeling of new items that arrive at our Bangkok office. I joined Gem Dragon Auctions in 2023, right around the time I began studying gem cutting at the Royal Thai Government School in Bangkok.
One of the things I enjoy most about my work is getting out of the office to visit labs and learning more about gemstones along the way. I also truly enjoy being part of a close, supportive team.
Aun, our office manager, is my younger sister, and working alongside her has been a real gift. This job gives me the ability to support my mother and my three children—something that means a great deal to me
Hi, I’m P'Punn. I create the gemstone box layouts you see in our auctions and oversee quality control for both gemstones and jewelry. Precision and presentation are important to me—I take pride in making sure every piece is displayed beautifully and meets our high standards.
I joined Gem Dragon Auctions in 2021, but I’ve been in the gem and diamond industry for over 27 years. I got my start as a buyer for one of Thailand’s largest jewelry manufacturers, and I've been passionate about quality ever since.
I live in Bangkok, but when I’m not working with stones, I enjoy developing my family farm outside the city, investing in livestock and agriculture, and helping with charitable efforts at Buddhist temples across the country
People sometimes ask how we manage to offer such a wide variety of gems. The answer lies with our buyers—dedicated professionals who rarely get the spotlight.
They travel thousands of miles each year to some of the world’s most challenging regions, often sleeping in rough conditions, facing food poisoning, vehicle breakdowns, and long stretches without reliable help. They carry the constant responsibility of safeguarding both themselves and the stones, while also navigating complex export paperwork across multiple countries—each with its own set of rules.
Given the intense competition for quality material, much of their work happens quietly, behind the scenes. However, we want to give them the recognition they deserve. These are the unsung heroes of Gem Dragon Auctions—and we couldn’t do it without them
My official duties include greeting every delivery driver before they reach the door, supervising snacks, and providing essential stress relief throughout the office. I also specialize in power naps and emotional support—often at the same time.
I may sleep on the job, but I never miss a chance to make someone feel welcomed
