FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Gemmary?
The Gemmary is a curated online store specializing in antique and vintage jewelry. We focus on unique, historically rich pieces that tell a story, offering collectors and jewelry lovers a chance to own beautiful treasures from the past.

How did The Gemmary get started?
The Gemmary was founded by Dani Chavez, a Graduate Gemologist (GIA GG) with a passion for antique and vintage jewelry. After years of studying gemstones and jewelry history, Dani created The Gemmary to share her love of historic pieces with a wider audience.

What makes The Gemmary different from other jewelry stores?
Unlike many modern jewelry retailers, The Gemmary specializes exclusively in antique and vintage jewelry, providing detailed provenance and expert knowledge. Each piece is hand-selected for quality, rarity, and historical significance.

Where do you source your jewelry?
Our collection comes from trusted dealers, estate sales, auctions, and private collections across the United States and Europe. We carefully vet each piece to ensure authenticity and quality.

Do you have a blog?
Yes! The Gemmary blog features stories about antique and vintage jewelry, gemstone history, collecting tips, and behind-the-scenes looks at our favorite finds. You can explore the blog through the main menu on our website.

How do I stay updated about The Gemmary’s news and new arrivals?
Subscribe to our newsletter to get first access to new arrivals, exclusive promotions, and behind-the-scenes stories. You can also follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest for real-time updates and inspiration.

Do you have social media?
Yes! The Gemmary is active on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. Follow us on Instagram for styling inspiration and behind-the-scenes content, connect with us on Facebook for stories and updates, and explore our Pinterest for curated vintage jewelry boards and gem inspiration. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to tag us and say hello!

Shopping with Us

Do you have retail store locations?
The Gemmary is an online-only store that enables us to offer a carefully curated selection of antique and vintage jewelry to customers worldwide.

Do you ship internationally?
Yes, The Gemmary ships internationally! Shipping rates and delivery times vary by destination and are calculated at checkout. Customs duties or import taxes may apply and are the buyer's responsibility.

Do you offer express shipping?
Yes, we offer express shipping on most orders. Choose express at checkout or contact us if you’re on a tight deadline—we’re happy to help.

Do you offer free shipping?
Yes! We offer free domestic shipping on orders over $100. Standard shipping rates apply to orders under $100 and will be calculated at checkout.

When will my order ship?
Orders typically ship within 2–3 business days. If you need your order sooner, please don't hesitate to contact us.

How is my jewelry packaged?
Each piece is securely and beautifully packaged in a branded box, perfect for gifting or safe storage.

How can I contact customer service?
You can reach us at info@thegemmary.com. We typically respond within 1–2 business days.

Do you offer layaway?
Yes! We offer a three-payment layaway plan. The first third is due immediately as a non-refundable deposit, the second payment is due in 30 days, and the final in 60 days. Contact us to set it up.

Do you offer ring sizing?
Yes, but please contact us before purchasing to confirm if the piece can be sized. We use a trusted local bench jeweler. Costs vary depending on the material and scope of work.

Do you offer a jewelry concierge service?
Yes! We offer a personalized concierge service to help you find the perfect antique or vintage piece. Whether you're looking for a specific style, era, or gemstone, we’re happy to assist. Email info@thegemmary.com to get started.

Can you help me find a specific piece of antique or vintage jewelry?
Yes! We’ll work through our network of trusted dealers to source something that meets your needs. Timing depends on availability and rarity.

Is there a fee for your concierge service?
There’s no fee to start. We may request a deposit for more complex sourcing projects.

Do you work with stylists or collectors?
Yes, we love collaborating with stylists, collectors, and private clients to curate custom selections.

Do you offer consignment services?
Yes. Send photos and details of the piece for review. We split sales 50/50. The item remains yours until sold, and you may request its return with one week’s notice. Return shipping is your responsibility.

Returns & Policies

What is your return policy?
We accept returns within 30 days of delivery. Items must be returned in original condition to receive a full refund. We do not charge restocking fees, but return shipping is the customer’s responsibility.

Are your prices negotiable?
Our prices are based on the rarity and quality of each piece, so we do not typically negotiate. However, we occasionally offer promotions through our newsletter.

Do you have any active discount codes or promotions available?
We don’t have any active codes at the moment, but we share promotions through our newsletter and social channels.

Gemstones & Jewelry Knowledge

What is antique jewelry?
Antique jewelry is at least 100 years old and reflects the style and craftsmanship of its time.

What is vintage jewelry?
Vintage jewelry is typically 20 to 100 years old and includes styles from the Retro and Mid-Century eras.

What is costume jewelry?
Costume jewelry is made with non-precious materials like glass, plastic, or base metals. It’s designed to be stylish and affordable.

What is a gemologist?
A gemologist is a trained expert who identifies and evaluates gemstones based on their characteristics, including color, clarity, cut, and carat weight.

What do gold karats mean?
Gold karats measure purity. 24K is pure gold; 18K is 75% gold, 14K is 58%, and 10K is 42%. Higher karat means purer but softer gold.

Do your pieces contain nickel? Can you test for nickel allergy?
Some vintage pieces may contain nickel. We offer nickel testing upon request and are happy to suggest nickel-free alternatives.

What are the 4 Cs of diamond grading?
The 4 Cs are Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat Weight—these determine a diamond’s overall quality and value.

Why are old diamonds better?
Old diamonds, like Old Mine and Old European cuts, are hand-cut and full of character. They're ethical, sustainable, and reflect historical craftsmanship.

Are lab-grown diamonds better for the environment?
Lab-grown diamonds have the same properties as natural ones but are more sustainable and eco-friendly, as they require fewer resources to produce.

What gemstones are best for engagement rings?
Durable stones like diamonds, sapphires, rubies, Moissanite, and spinel are ideal. Gems like opals or pearls, which are softer, require extra care.

What are synthetic or lab-grown gemstones?
These are man-made gems that have the same properties as natural stones. They’re real gemstones, just not mined from the earth.

What are gemstone simulants?
Simulants mimic the appearance of real gems but differ in composition—for example, cubic zirconia looks like a diamond but isn’t one chemically.

What are imitation gemstones?
Imitations are low-cost lookalikes, often made of glass or plastic, with no relation to the real gem’s structure or value.

What are gemstone treatments?
Treatments enhance appearance or durability. Common methods include heating, oiling, and irradiation.

Are treated gemstones less valuable?
Some treatments are accepted in the trade, but untreated stones of the same quality are usually more valuable.

Do treated gemstones require special care?
Yes—some treatments can be affected by heat, chemicals, or ultrasonic cleaning.

Laboratory Reports & Appraisals

Do you offer laboratory grading and origin reports?
Yes, through GIA. These services require extra fees and processing time. Contact us to request lab services.

What reports are available from GIA?
GIA offers Diamond Grading Reports, Colored Stone Reports, Pearl Identification, Origin Reports, and Synthetic Diamond Reports.

Can you help me identify or appraise a piece I already own?
Yes! We offer professional appraisal services. Contact us for details, fees, and availability.