CLA-2-71:S:N:N8:344 805861
Mr. Stephen L. Besler
W. J. Byrnes & Co.
P.O. Box 22377
Tucson, Arizona 85734
RE: The tariff classification of temporarily strung precious and
semiprecious stones from Hong Kong.
Dear Mr. Besler:
In your letter dated January 6, 1995, you requested a tariff
classification ruling.
You have submitted five samples. They are:
1. Item #1D - Three strands of temporarily strung emeralds,
rubies and sapphires stones.
2. Item #3 - Temporarily strung tourmaline stones.
3. Item #4A - Temporarily strung aquamarine stones.
4. Item #5A - Temporarily strung multi-colored quartz stones.
5. Item #6A - Temporarily strung garnet (rhodolite) stones.
All of the stones are graded and worked and suitable for use
in the manufacture of jewelry.
Your samples are being returned as requested.
The applicable subheading for Items #3, #4A, #5A and #6A,
semiprecious stones, temporarily strung, graded and worked will be
7116.20.3000, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of United States (HTS),
which provides for Articles of...Graded semiprecious stones strung
temporarily for convenience of transport. The rate of duty will be
2.1% ad valorem.
- 2 -
The applicable subheading for Item #1D, precious stones,
temporarily strung, graded and worked will be 7116.20.5000, HTS,
which provides for Articles of...Other. The rate of duty will be
5.4% ad valorem.
You have asked for a definition of the terms "graded" and
"worked" regarding precious and semiprecious stones. The term
graded refers to stones which are separated by characteristics such
as size, shape, color, quality, etc. The term worked refers to
stones which have been worked by cleaving, sawing, bruting,
faceting, grinding, polishing, drilling or engraving (including
cameos and intaglios).
This ruling is being issued under the provisions of Section
177 of the Customs Regulations (19 C.F.R. 177).
A copy of this ruling letter should be attached to the entry
documents filed at the time this merchandise is imported. If the
documents have been filed without a copy, this ruling should be
brought to the attention of the Customs officer handling the
transaction.
Sincerely,
Jean F. Maguire
Area Director
New York Seaport