The provided sources primarily detail a collectible series of Barbie dolls, the “Birthstone Beauties” collection. While not offering extensive gemological information, these sources reveal a cultural connection between specific gemstones and the months of the year, as represented through this popular toy line. This article will explore the available information regarding this collection, focusing on the gemstones featured and the context of their representation within the Barbie brand. Due to the limited scope of the provided materials, a comprehensive gemological overview is not possible. The focus will remain strictly on the information presented within the given sources.
A Collector's Series
The “Birthstone Beauties” collection, produced by Mattel, features Barbie dolls each representing a different birthstone. The sources specifically mention dolls representing Aquamarine and Topaz. These dolls are presented as “New” items, available for purchase on online auction and sales platforms. The dolls are described as being in “NewNew” condition, indicating they are unopened and undamaged. The series appears to be aimed at collectors, with listings noting a high number of watchers (42 for the Aquamarine doll) and a significant sales history for the seller (over 11,000 items sold with a 0.3% negative feedback rating).
Featured Gemstones: Aquamarine and Topaz
The sources highlight two specific gemstones within the collection: Aquamarine and Topaz. The Aquamarine doll is described as a “Steffi Face Blonde” Barbie accompanied by a pug. The Topaz doll is noted as being “NRFB” (Never Removed From Box). Beyond these basic descriptions, no details regarding the specific shade, cut, or clarity of the gemstones represented by the dolls are provided. The dolls serve as representations of the birthstones, rather than accurate depictions of the gems themselves.
Market Value and Availability
The listed prices for the dolls vary. The Aquamarine doll is listed for US $119.79 (approximately £88.86) with a shipping cost of US $48.41 (approximately £35.91). The Topaz doll is listed for US $48.00 (approximately AU $72.68) with a shipping cost of US $46.12 (approximately AU $69.84). These prices suggest a collector's market with values influenced by rarity, condition, and demand. The availability of specific dolls within the collection appears limited, as indicated by the listing stating “0 available” for the Topaz doll. The “Super high amount watching” notation for the Aquamarine doll further suggests high demand.
Sales Platforms and Shipping
The dolls are being sold through online platforms, specifically eBay. The listings detail shipping options, including “eBay International Shipping,” which offers detailed tracking and hassle-free returns. Import fees may apply for international orders, with options to prepay at checkout or pay upon delivery. Sellers typically post items within 3 days of receiving cleared payment. Return policies are in place, with a 30-day return window, where the buyer is responsible for return postage costs.
Categorization and Related Items
The provided sources also include information regarding the categorization of items on eBay. The dolls fall under the “Toys & Hobbies” category, specifically within subcategories like “Dolls & Bears” and “Fashion Dolls.” Other related categories include “Jewellery & Watches,” with a subcategory for “Loose Diamonds & Gemstones,” indicating a potential connection between the collectible dolls and the actual gemstones they represent. The sources also list various other categories, including “Collectibles & Art,” “Home & Garden,” and “Clothing, Shoes & Accessories,” demonstrating the broad range of items available on the platform.
Platform Features and Tools
The sources also provide insight into features offered by platforms like Issuu and eBay. Issuu offers tools for digital publishing, including the ability to create flipbooks, embed content, and add links and videos. eBay offers features like “eBay Special Offers,” “eBay Motors,” and “Real Estate,” showcasing the platform’s diverse offerings. These features are relevant to understanding the context in which the “Birthstone Beauties” dolls are being sold and promoted.
Top-Rated Seller Status
The seller of the Aquamarine doll is designated as a “Top-Rated Plus!” seller, indicating a high level of customer service and reliability. This status is based on factors like positive feedback, fast shipping, and adherence to eBay’s policies. This information can be valuable for potential buyers, as it suggests a trustworthy seller.
Limited Gemological Information
It is crucial to reiterate that the provided sources offer extremely limited gemological information. There is no discussion of the chemical composition, hardness, refractive index, or geological origins of Aquamarine or Topaz. The sources solely focus on the dolls as collectible items representing these gemstones. Therefore, any attempt to provide a detailed gemological overview based on these sources would be speculative and outside the scope of the instructions.
Table Summarizing Doll Information (Based on Sources)
| Doll Name | Gemstone | Price (USD) | Shipping (USD) | Condition | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barbie Aquamarine | Aquamarine | $119.79 | $48.41 | New | Steffi Face, Blonde, with Pug |
| Barbie Topaz | Topaz | $48.00 | $46.12 | New | NRFB (Never Removed From Box) |
Conclusion
The provided sources primarily document the availability and market value of Barbie “Birthstone Beauties” dolls, specifically those representing Aquamarine and Topaz. These dolls serve as collectible representations of the birthstones, appealing to collectors and enthusiasts. The sources offer limited gemological information, focusing instead on the commercial aspects of the collection, including pricing, shipping, and seller reputation. While the connection between the dolls and the actual gemstones is present, the sources do not provide a comprehensive understanding of the gemstones themselves. The information presented highlights the cultural association of gemstones with specific months and the way this association is leveraged in the collectible toy market.