Shipping & Returns

Effective Date: August 28, 2025

Shipping Information

Coverage Area: We currently ship within the United States only. International shipping is not available at this time.

Shipping Method: All orders are shipped at a flat rate with tracking included, so you can follow your package from our shop to your door.

Processing Time:

  • We pack and ship orders every Tuesday
  • Orders placed on Mondays before 6pm (AKST) will typically ship the following day

Shipping Costs: Shipping costs are calculated at checkout based on package dimensions.

Tracking: You will receive tracking information via email once your order ships. Track your package directly through USPS.

Packaging

Secure Packaging: All crystals and minerals are carefully wrapped and packaged to prevent damage during shipping. Fragile items receive extra protection with bubble wrap and cushioning materials.

Returns Policy

Return Window: Returns accepted within 14 days of delivery date for full refund (excluding original shipping costs).

What You Can Return:

  • Items that don’t match the description
  • Damaged items (see damage policy below)

What You Cannot Return: Natural characteristics are not defects and not grounds for return:

  • Natural color variations
  • Inclusions, veining, or mineral patterns
  • Minor size/weight variations within stated ranges
  • Natural surface textures or formation marks

Return Process:

  1. Contact us within 14 days at info@gemsoftheearthandmore.com
  2. Include your order number and reason for return
  3. We’ll provide return shipping instructions
  4. Pack items securely in original packaging if possible
  5. Customer pays return shipping unless item was damaged/misrepresented

Refund Timeline: Refunds processed within 5-7 business days after we receive returned items. Original payment method will be credited.

Damaged During Shipping Policy:

We take great care in packaging all orders to ensure your items arrive safely. Despite our best efforts, damage may occasionally occur during shipping. This policy outlines the steps to take if your order arrives damaged and how we handle claims in accordance with United States Postal Service (USPS) guidelines.
 
1. Inspect Your Package Upon Arrival
Please inspect your order immediately upon delivery. If there is any visible damage to the packaging or contents, retain all packaging materials, including:
The outer shipping box or envelope
All packing materials (bubble wrap, paper, etc.)
The damaged item(s)
These materials are required for USPS claim verification and must be kept until the claim is resolved.
 
2. Reporting Damage
To report damage:
Contact us within 7 days of delivery at info@gemsoftheearthandmore.com with:
Your order number
Clear photos of the damaged item(s)
Photos of all packaging materials and shipping label
A brief description of the damage
We will respond within 2 business days to begin the USPS claim process.
 
3. USPS Claim Process
Gems of the Earth and More ships primarily via USPS Priority Mail, which includes insurance coverage for loss or damage.
We will file the claim on your behalf with USPS using the documentation you provide.
USPS may contact you directly to verify damage or request the item and packaging for inspection at your local post office.
Claims typically take 7–15 business days to process through USPS.
Note: Claims submitted after 60 days of the mailing date cannot be accepted under USPS policy.
 
4. Replacement or Refund
Once USPS approves the claim:
We will offer a replacement of the same or similar item (based on availability), or
A refund for the insured value of the item(s), including applicable shipping costs.
If the claim is denied by USPS due to insufficient documentation or failure to present the item for inspection, we may be unable to issue a refund or replacement.
 
5. Exclusions
This policy does not cover:
Damage reported more than 7 days after delivery
Items not shipped via USPS or not insured
Minor cosmetic wear caused by natural crystal or mineral fragility
Items damaged after delivery has been confirmed
 
6. Questions
If you have questions about the damage claim process, please contact us at:
📧 info@gemsoftheearthandmore.com
📞 907-715-4704

Missing Items: If your package appears to have been tampered with or items are missing, contact us immediately. We’ll work with USPS and provide resolution.

Exchanges

Direct Exchanges: We don’t offer direct item exchanges.

Special Circumstances

One-of-a-Kind Items: Many of our specimens are unique. If a one-of-a-kind item is damaged, we’ll offer:

  • Full refund including shipping
  • Store credit for future purchases
  • Similar alternative specimen if available

Contact Us

For Shipping or Return Questions:

  • Email: info@gemsoftheearthandmore.com
  • Phone: 907-715-4704
  • Business Hours: 10am-6pm Wednesday to Saturday
  • Address: 5465 E Bogard Rd, Gems of the Earth, Wasilla, Alaska

Order Issues: Contact us as soon as possible for fastest resolution. Include your order number and detailed description of the issue.

Insurance and Liability

Shipping Insurance: USPS Priority Mail includes $100 insurance. Higher value orders may include additional insurance at our discretion.

Carrier Liability: While we package carefully, we’re not responsible for damage caused by carrier mishandling. We will assist with insurance claims when applicable.

Customer Responsibility: Inspect packages upon delivery. Report any visible damage to the carrier and contact us immediately with photos.

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