Guidelines
... Our World Class pages are intended to be a high end E-Store, with the emphasis on one of a kind, designer jewelry and custom cut gems. However, you do not need to be the creator of the piece, nor does it need to be new. Any high quality gem, jewelry, or related item is acceptable.
... Our advertising campaign is aimed at those in the upper income brackets. The intention is to bring in shoppers that will pay retail prices for high quality goods. We do not want to become a discount site, nor do we want to be offering standard fare.
... There will always be a need for exceptions, but do not send us common goods. Plated and filled jewelry are not acceptable, nor are most synthetic gems. If you have any questions about the acceptability of your product, email us at service@gemsociety.org.
Advertising
... The IGS maintains accounts with Google and Overture, which supply search results for all the major search engines, (Yahoo, Google, MSN, AOL, etc.) We will advertise the World Class pages, separately from the rest of the IGS, to bring in as many customers as possible.
Pricing of Goods
... Pricing should be close to the appraised value. The IGS will recommend a retail price, but it is the seller's choice where to list their goods. However, we will not list anything in excess of its fair retail value.
... No product will be put on sale or otherwise discounted unless requested by the seller. Shipping charges and tax will be paid by the buyer and added to the selling price.
Getting Maximum Value
... Note that signed, designer pieces bring the highest prices. We encourage jewelers to initial their work for the added value.
... An IGS appraisal will greatly enhance the saleability of your goods. It gives the buyer added assurance the product has been authenticated by our organization and is properly priced.
How it Works
... You send your goods to the IGS. We will examine the item, authenticate the materials and value it. Then we photograph the item(s), write the advertising, add it to the appropriate World Class page, and enter it in our shopping cart. When it sells we collect the payment, plus applicable tax and shipping, and send the product to the customer.
... After the return period has passed, approximately three weeks, we will send you a check for your share of the proceeds.
Procedures
General
... Advertising on our World Class pages is open to all IGS members.
... If you are in doubt of the suitability of your goods, send an email to service@gemsociety.org before shipping.
Fees
... The IGS commission is 30%, with a minimum of $25. This is far more than a store would offer you and it is only payable if the item sells. You may have your goods returned at any time for the cost of return shipping.
... Listing fees are: single stones, $15, jewelry with single stone, $25, jewelry with multiple stones, $35. These fees are nonrefundable, but will be deducted from the commission when sold.
... You can pay the fee online through our Secure Ad Order Form, or you can send a check along with the goods.
Appraisals
... An IGS appraisal will greatly enhance the saleability of your goods. The fee is $20, in addition to the listing fee. This fee will not be deducted from the commission.
... Understand that the appraisal represents approximately $100 in labor. It is included at this discounted rate, to help sell your goods. If you chose to have your goods returned the fee will be refunded, but the appraisal will not be included. This is to avoid people taking advantage of us.
... If you have a certification or appraisal from an independent gemological laboratory, send it along with the item. The IGS will verify the document and make note of it in your ad. Please do not send us an appraisal from your local jewelry store, we will only accept documents from independent laboratories.
Return Policy
... There are no time obligations. You may have your goods returned at any time for the cost of return shipping.
Payment
... Both courtesy and law require that goods are returnable. We offer our customers a 10 day, no questions asked, return policy. All goods will be sent with a delivery confirmation, so we will know when it is delivered.
... After the return period is complete, about three weeks, the IGS will issue you a check for your share of the proceeds.
Shipping Information
... Package your goods carefully. Send them by registered mail or fully insured to:
