CAN I PURCHASE LOOSE GEMSTONES FROM DU LYON?

Yes, any of the gemstones found in our collection can be purchased without a setting.

 

 

DO YOU SELL SYNTHETIC OR COATED GEMSTONES?

We only sell natural gemstones, mined from the earth and do not knowingly deal in any synthetic or lab-created gems.  Our staff does its best to guarantee that all gemstones in our collection are as described and any gem treatments that we are aware of are fully disclosed on the product page for that particular gemstone.

 

 

HOW DO I KNOW THAT YOUR GEMSTONES ARE REAL?

All of the gemstones in our collection are inspected, analyzed and color graded by an on staff, GIA Graduate Gemologist and accompanied by a Du Lyon gemstone report, signed by a member of our staff, as proof of its quality and identity.

 

 

ARE DU LYON GEMSTONES CERTIFIED?

All of the gemstones individually listed in our collection are accompanied by a Du Lyon gemstone report.  In addition, a gemological certificate, issued by an independent laboratory, if not already supplied with the stone, can be purchased (at additional cost) for any of the gemstones in our collection.  Du Lyon will typically send gemstones to be graded by the laboratories of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA), two of the most widely respected and recognized independent gemological laboratories in the world.

 

 

WHAT IS AN INDEPENDENT LABORATORY CERTIFICATION?

Du Lyon now offers independent laboratory gemological certificates for any gemstone individually listed in our collection.  These certificates are gemstone identification reports issued by a respected, independent gem lab that certify the gem type, size, color and whether it is natural or synthetic.  At times they may identify certain gem treatments (such as fracture filling of rubies) but they are not grading reports for clarity or value and will not identify the country of origin.

 

Please note that a gemstone certificate is NOT a detailed evaluation of a gemstones quality.  A more complete, gemstone grading report that essentially serves as a unique "fingerprint" for the stone and helps validate a gemstones identity and value is available but at a much higher cost.  We generally only recommend this option for Investment gemstones.  If you are interested in obtaining a gemstone grading report please contact us at customer_care@dulyon.com for more details.

 

 

HOW DO I PURCHASE AN INDEPENDENT LAB CERTIFICATE FOR A GEMSTONE?

You will have the option to add a gemological certificate when you add a gemstone from our collection to your shopping cart and please be aware that if you need a certificate, you must order it at the same time you place the order for the gem.  Once we receive your order we will send your gem to an independent gemological laboratory for testing.  It will take the lab between 4 days and 2 weeks to issue the certificate and in addition, there will be 4 days shipping time so your order will be delayed by 8 to 18 days.  The gemstone will be shipped to and from the lab via Priority mail, insured for the full value of the gemstone and these shipping costs will be added to your order.  Shipping costs can be determined here:

 

http://www.dulyon.com/customer_service/read/shipping-cost-table/

 

Please Note: While a gemstone can be returned to Du Lyon, all costs associated with obtaining a gemological certificate are non-refundable.

 

 

CAN I GET AN APPRAISAL FOR INSURANCE PURPOSES?

We believe that it is unethical for a gemstone dealer to make appraisals of the gems they sell and that any appraisal should be performed by an independent certified appraiser.  However, please keep in mind that the appraisal industry is not regulated and that many appraisals done for insurance purposes tend to be inflated.

 

 

HOW DOES DU LYON RATE OR GRADE GEMSTONES?

Du Lyon strictly adheres to the grading system established by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) that sets standards for the color, saturation, tone, cut and clarity of the gemstone.

 

Comprehensive color grading is an extremely important factor in determining the value of colored gemstones and unlike diamonds were the cut is one of the most important factors, the color can influence as much as fifty percent of a colored gemstones value.  Gemstone color grading is broken down into three quantifiable categories: intensity (saturation), hue (color), and tone (lightness / darkness).

 

The cut of the gemstone refers to its proportions, symmetry and polish.  A wide range of proportional combinations and polish are possible in gemstones and they will ultimately affect the gemstones interaction with light, determining not only its diffraction and play of color but the saturation and depth of the color as well.

 

The GIA clarity scale contains 11 grades ranging from Flawless (FL) to Heavily Included (I3) with most colored gemstones falling in a range of Very Slightly Included (VS1) to Included (I1).   Be aware that these clarity grades apply only to transparent gemstones and that if a gemstone is translucent or opaque, with no inclusions visible, the gems are graded simply as translucent or opaque.  You will often times see this description for cabochons and gemstones such as fire opal or black tourmaline.

 

 

WHAT ARE INVESTMENT, STATEMENT AND COLLECTOR GRADE GEMSTONES?

Gemstones marked as Investment grade are the best of the best, unique stones that have excellent color, cut and clarity.  Often times they are larger in size or have a highly saturated color for their size.  Gemstones marked as Statement grade will be graded fine to very fine in all categories of color, cut and clarity but will typically have one characteristic that precludes them from the top gem, Investment category.  These gemstones are always very beautiful and would make a wonderful addition to any piece of jewelry at a more modest cost than the Investment grade material.  Gemstones marked as Collector grade will be graded as good to fine in categories of color, cut and clarity but will typically have one or two characteristics that preclude them from the top gem Statement or Investment categories.  This category allows you to purchase a very beautiful colored stone at a cost well within almost every budget.

 

 

CAN I RETURN A GEMSTONE THAT I PURCHASED FROM DU LYON?

Any individual gemstone purchased from our collection can be returned within 7 days of your receipt.  If you wish to return the stone you must contact us for a Return Material Authorization (RMA) number that we will send you via email.  A copy of this email must be returned with the gemstone.  The gemstone must be in original condition with all original packing material and shipped to Du Lyon, fully insured and with delivery tracking.  You must provide us with the tracking number at the time of shipment.  You are responsible for all return shipping costs and no shipping costs (to or from Du Lyon) will be refunded.  If a gem lab certificate was provided with the gemstone at no additional charge, this certificate must be returned with the gemstone or the cost of obtaining a new certificate (typically about $150) will be deducted from the amount refunded.  Any costs associated with a gem lab certificate that you purchased with the gemstone will not be refunded.  Once we receive the gemstone it will be analyzed and authenticated by a gemologist before a refund is authorized.  Unique documentation for each gemstone in our collection is kept by Du Lyon and if a gemstone does not match our records it will be returned at your cost and no refund will be issued.  Once the gemstones identity and condition have been verified, a refund, less a 15% restocking charge will be issued.  Please see our policy pages for additional details.

 

 

WHAT ARE CONFLICT DIAMONDS?

Conflict diamonds are gemstones mined in certain African combat zones that have fueled and funded civil wars and gross abuses against the civilian population.  While conflict diamonds are currently estimated to account for less than 1% of the world diamond production, this number is growing and ethical gemstone dealers are supporting efforts to end trade in these gemstones.

 

 

WHAT IS DU LYON’S POSITION ON CONFLICT DIAMONDS?

Du Lyon supports all industry efforts to end the trafficking of conflict diamonds.  We only obtain diamonds from reputable sources that comply with the international monitoring system known as the Kimberly Process which requires all manufacturers to supply retailers with documentation that their diamonds were received through legitimate channels. Du Lyon also adheres to the United States Patriot and Anti Money Laundering (AML) acts, both of which seek to limit the use of gemstones and precious metals as highly negotiable financial vehicles to fund illegal activities.

 

 

HOW DO I SEARCH THE SITE FOR A PARTICULAR TYPE OF JEWELRY?

At the top of each page, in the upper navigation bar just next to the Contact Us button is a white oval search box that says “Search for Jewelry”.  The search engine connected to this box will quickly scan the style numbers, title and description fields of every piece of jewelry on our site.  You can enter any word or search term that you like in this field, for example; 14K US Army or Murano Glass Earring and then simply press the white arrow next to the search box.  The site will then display all jewelry that matches your search request.  It’s easy, give it a try!

 

 

CAN I CUSTOMIZE A PIECE OF JEWELRY?

Yes you can and you can do so in many different ways.   First and foremost, we have our “Made to Order” jewelry.  With Made to Order you can select the type of gemstone (from an available group), metal finish and size of a particular jewelry piece that suits you best and it will be made to order just for you.  You could also have a unique gemstone from our collection set in any of the suitable made to order mounts or you could have it set in any suitable mount from our Design Studio collection of Jewelry.  Another option available to you would be to request a modification of an existing piece of jewelry in our collection, for example, a larger diameter, different clasp or gemstone shape and finally, if you are a serious gemstone and / or jewelry collector, we would be very happy to discuss a custom piece with you, one made to your exact specifications.  Please contact us at customer_care@dulyon.com for information regarding any of these options.

 

 

WHAT DOES “MADE TO ORDER” MEAN?

Our Design Studio ...Made to Order collection of jewelry contains a wide range of semi-custom pieces that give you a much greater hand in determining what the final “look” of the jewelry will be.  Made to Order allows you to select the metal (14 or 18K, Yellow, White and Rose (where available) Gold and Platinum), the gem type, the ring size and depending on the piece, you may be able to select the size and shape of the gemstone as well.  Once you have made your selections the piece will be literally, Made to Order just for you.  In the case of Design Studio mounts there will be even more Made to Order options available to you.  Please remember that because Made to Order jewelry is crafted especially for you, they are non returnable and non cancelable once the order has been entered so please contact us at customer_care@dulyon.com with any questions that you may have prior to placing your order.

 

 

CAN I CANCEL A “MADE TO ORDER” ITEM BEFORE IT SHIPS?

Made to Order items are committed to production after 12 pm on the day following your order, so you have until that time to cancel your order.  If you need to cancel an order please contact us as quickly as possible at customer_care@dulyon.com or call us at 512-470-2036.

 

 

CAN I RETURN “MADE TO ORDER” ITEMS?

No, all Design Studio ...Made to Order sales are final.  Only stocked finished jewelry and loose gemstones can be returned.

 

 

IS THERE A RETURN OR RESTOCKING FEE FOR ITEMS THAT I SEND BACK?

There is a 15% restocking fee on all gemstones and finished jewelry (non Made to Order or custom) items that are returned.  Please see the policy section for more details regarding returns.

 

 

WHAT IF A “MADE TO ORDER” ITEM IS DAMAGED IN SHIPPING?

Damage that occurs during shipping is the responsibility of the United States Postal Service.  All packages shipped by Du Lyon are insured for their full cost.  An invoice detailing this cost is sent to your email address at the time of order and another email is sent at the time of shipment that includes the tracking number.  The customer must file any claim for loss or damage with the USPS but if you need any additional information to support this claim, please let us know.

 

 

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO GET MY “MADE TO ORDER” ITEM?

The production of a Made to Order item can take anywhere from 5 days to 6 weeks depending on the item, availability of the gemstones and the amount of setting work currently in progress.  If you have any questions about a particular piece of jewelry, our would like to know it’s current lead time, we encourage you to contact us with any questions you have before you place your order.  We can be reached at: customer_care@dulyon.com or call us at 512-470-2036.

 

 

WHAT CAN I DO IF I’M NOT SURE OF MY RING SIZE?

We will be happy to send you a ring sizing gauge at no cost, all you have to do is send us an email with your mailing information and let us know you want one.  We also have a pdf document that contains a paper ring sizing gauge that you can cut out and use if you are in a hurry.  The ring sizing document can be found on the main customer service page.

 

 

CAN I PURCHASE A GEMSTONE NOW & HAVE IT MOUNTED AT A LATER DATE?

Every gemstone in our collection has a 7 day examination period during which it can be returned to us.  If you want to take a look at the stone before choosing a jewelry design, let us know when you order the gemstone, take the 7 days to look at it, then return it to us and we will have it set for you in the mount you have chosen.

 

 

CAN I PURCHASE A SETTING WITHOUT A STONE FROM DU LYON?

All of our jewelry designs are custom fitted to the individual gemstones, oftentimes requiring a unique head or basket for that gemstone and therefore can not be sold individually

 

 

IS HIGH KARAT GOLD JEWELRY A GOOD INVESTMENT?

Yes!  In an age of artificial values, over hyped, feel good products of the month and trinkets designed for throw away mass market consumption one of the few things that continues to create lasting value is fine jewelry crafted in 24K gold.  The popular misconception that pure 24K gold is not suitable for jewelry couldn't be farther from the truth.  While it is certainly true that 24K gold is quite malleable, it is not too soft for use in pendants, earrings and necklaces if crafted and handled correctly.  Giving gold can be both a beautiful gesture and a wise investment.  But while gold coins or bullion typically end up in a safe deposit box, never to be enjoyed in any practical way, 24K jewelry can be both a treasured keepsake that is enjoyed daily as well as a secure source of value should an emergency arise.

For More on 24K Gold Jewelry:

 

http://www.dulyon.com/blog/article/gemstone-jewelry/24k-gold-jewelry-timely-investment/

 

 

 

WILL MY PURCHASES OF 24K GOLD JEWELRY BE RECORDED?

As an investment vehicle, 24K jewelry has a distinct advantage over coins or bullion.  The purchase of high Karat weight gold jewelry is exempt from the U.S. 1099-B reporting requirements that burden other forms of gold ownership.  For example, individuals selling (25) 1-ounce Canadian Gold Maple Leafs are required to disclose their name, address, and social security number to the purchasing dealer.  There are no such 1099-B reporting requirements for 25 ounces of 24K jewelry.

 

 

WILL YOU BUY MY OLD GOLD JEWELRY OR GEMSTONES?

Du Lyon strictly adheres to the US Anti-Money Laundering (AML) act which stipulates that an individual or company must acquire a Precious Metal Dealers License or Permit in order to engage in the business of buying, selling and trading in Precious Metals (Bulk or Jewelry) that originates from any source other than a wholesale or retail jewelry and / or bullion supply company.  By law, a dealer must have a Precious Metal and Gemstone Dealers Permit, a physical location that the Permit is attached to, must buy in that location, hold all buys from 7 to 30 days and must report their buys within 24 hours to their local sheriff or police department.  As an internet based jewelry firm these restrictions are not practical and therefore prohibit us from purchasing old gold or gemstones from our customers.

 

 

WILL YOU SET A GEMSTONE I ALREADY HAVE IN ONE OF YOUR PIECES OF JEWELRY?

Sadly, gemstones are occasionally damaged during the mounting process and it is because of this possibility that Du Lyon can not accept the responsibility for setting any customers existing gemstones.

 

 

WHAT IS THE LION’S SHARE PRICE?

Established customers who have previously ordered (and received) at least $1500 in gemstones or jewelry are eligible to receive the Lion’s Share price on their purchases.  More detailed information on the Lion's Share including the multiple discount levels and cash rewards program can be found in the Customer Service section.

 

 

CAN I MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE YOUR JEWELRY OR GEMSTONES IN PERSON?

Du Lyon is strictly an internet based jewelry store and as such, we do not have a retail showroom where you can see the jewelry or gemstones in person.  While we do not typically make appointments with customers, every client and situation is unique so we encourage you to contact us with your requests.

 

 

CAN I PLACE AN ORDER OVER THE PHONE?

Certainly!  We will also be happy to help you with any questions you may between 9 AM and 5 PM CST.  

 

DO I NEED TO REGISTER TO MAKE A PURCHASE?

You don’t need to register to make a purchase but we must have your email address if we are to send you a receipt for your order as well as shipment status and a tracking number.

 

 

DO I PAY SALES TAX FOR ITEMS I PURCHASE FROM DU LYON ONLINE?

Only items sold by Du Lyon and shipped to any destination in the state of Texas are subject to sales tax.

 

 

WHAT SHIPPING OPTIONS DO I HAVE?

Du Lyon ships all orders via Unites States Post Office Priority Mail.  All orders (regardless of weight) with a value of less than $1,000.00 are shipped insured with signature confirmation.  Orders with a value over $1,000.00 are shipped using Registered Mail with restricted delivery.

 

 

HOW MUCH DOES SHIPPING COST?

Shipping costs are dependent on the value of the order.  A complete table of shipping charges can be found here:

 

http://www.dulyon.com/customer_service/read/shipping-cost-table/

 

 

 

WILL YOU SHIP PRODUCT OVERSEAS?

Du Lyon will ship to most countries in Europe, Japan, Australia and New Zealand as well as a few other international destinations, however, shipping prices will have to be determined for the final destination.  International, Registered mail shipments need to be tracked by the postal service in the destination country.  Some countries provide online tracking for registered mail, but some do not.  Contact us prior to placing any international order at customer_care@dulyon.com for information on how to proceed as well as additional shipping costs.

 

 

ARE MY SHIPMENTS INSURED?

Yes, we fully insure your shipment from the moment it leaves Du Lyon to when it arrives at your door.  However, in the event of a return, you are responsible for insuring the item.

 

 

WILL MY GEMSTONE GET TO ME SAFELY?

To insure that your gemstone reaches you safely we first place it in an industry standard “gem jar”, a small, foam lined plastic jar with a cap.  The gem jar is then placed in foam lined jewelry box that is in turn placed inside a white packing box.  Finally, the white packing box is sealed in bubble wrap and placed in a heavy duty, 200lb test cardboard box for shipping to you.  Your gemstone should have a nice safe trip but in the event that things go wrong at the USPS, the package will be insured for its full replacement value.

 

 

IF MY SHIPMENT IS DAMAGED OR LOST, WHAT DO I DO?

Damage that occurs during shipping is the responsibility of the United States Postal Service.  All packages shipped by Du Lyon are insured (with the USPS) for their full replacement cost.  An invoice detailing this cost is sent to your email address at the time of order and another email is sent at the time of shipment that includes the USPS tracking number.  The customer must file any claim for loss or damage with the USPS but if you need any additional information to support this claim, please let us know.

 

 

WHAT PAYMENT METHODS DO YOU ACCEPT?

We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express through PayPal.   You can also use e-checks, debit cards and your PayPal account.  You do not need to be registered with PayPal or have a PayPal account in order to pay for your order using a credit card.  PayPal functions simply as the credit card processing system (just like a bank).

 

 

IS IT SAFE TO USE MY CREDIT CARD FOR PURCHASES FROM DU LYON?

Du Lyon is registered with Thawte, a leading provider of digital authentication services and products for electronic commerce and other forms of secure communications.  All information is protected with SSL (Secure Socket Layering) technology, which allows two parties to communicate with each other via the Internet in a secure environment without risk of data interception, manipulation or recipient impersonation. SSL also encrypts all information, ensuring that information cannot be intercepted or stolen while in transit.  All payment and credit card information is handled on a secure page by PayPal.  We have no access to your credit card or financial information. For more information please see:

 

https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_security-center-outside

 

  

WHAT HAPPENS TO MY PERSONAL INFORMATION?

Du Lyon complies with all applicable laws and regulations governing the security, collection, retention and use by us of all your personally identifiable customer information and we will never sell, rent or share with any third party any of your information.  Furthermore, all payment and credit card information is handled on a secure page by PayPal, we have no access to your credit card or financial information and it is not stored in any way for future transactions.

 

 

HOW DO I KNOW IF YOU RECEIVED MY ORDER?

After you click Submit Order, you should receive a confirmation email with an invoice for your order. If you do not receive a confirmation email or see anything that is incorrect on the invoice, please contact us at customer_care@dulyon.com.