Four Seasons Gems - brings you fantastic stones year round!
 

Frequently Asked Questions:

How do I place an order ?

What is a pro-forma invoice ?

I've never ordered from Hong Kong before, is it difficult ?

How much will the shipping cost ?

How long will my order take ?

What happen to back orders ?


How do I place an order ?

Simply click on the PRICE of that item you want to order and our order form will automatically pop up on your screen.  You can select the quantity and then click ORDER.  Your 'Shopping Cart' will then be updated and present on your screen for your confirmation. If you need to revise your order, you can do it on your 'Shopping Cart' page.  Most importantly please provide your e-mail address to us, along with any special instructions.  Once I receive your order, I will send you a pro-forma invoice by e-mail within couple of days.  If you encounter any problems when placing an order, please e-mail us immediately for further assistance.   

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What is a pro-forma invoice ?

Pro-forma Invoice is an "approval invoice" for your re-confirmation.  After you place an order with us, we will then e-mail to you with the pro-forma invoice, showing what you have ordered, and the cost of shipping etc.  

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I've never ordered from Hong Kong before,  is it difficult  ?

Ordering overseas is easy and simple!  You can also enjoy the benefit of our factory direct prices.   First, Hong Kong is a "free port" so there is no tax on exports. However please note that an IMPORT TAX may apply to you when the parcel arrives in your country.  Depends on where you live, the duty is different.

In United States, the Import Duty of semi-precious stone is very low, under 1.7%.   For regular orders sent by Express Delivery Post (EMS Speed Post in Asia, Global Express in US), your post office will be your custom broker.  For shipments with small value, there is usually no charge or custom on.

In case the order is a few hundred dollars or large in size, there will be a duty fee of the contents in the shipment, plus US$ 7.50 (per parcel) as the brokerage fee (from post office).

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How much will be the shipping cost ?

Shipping cost various from country to country.  Usually we prefer to use Express Delivery Post (EMS Speed Post in Asia, Global Express in US) for smaller shipments.  They offer fast delivery service (about 3 days) with tracking numbers.  But I often use First Class Air as they are usually US$ 8-10.00 cheaper.

For Example to USA, the shipping charge is usually US$ 15.00 for the first pound, and US$ 6.00 every pound after.  Usually the insurance charge and handling fee is about 6% (US$ 6.00 for on every US$ 100.00 order).  It depends on where it goes, the shipping cost varies.

In case you are ordering a big quantity, then UPS or FedEx will be a better choice.  UPS/FedEx now ship to many countries at a special rate US$ 185.00 for 25 kg (roughly 50 lb), plus handling fee.  It is even cheaper then First Class Air Parcel.

It is difficult to estimate the cost of shipping unless your order is actually processed & completed. 

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How long will my order take ?

Once you send me an order by e-mail, you can expect to hear from us within 48 hrs.   (in case you don't hear anything, please e-mail to us again!  It may have gotten lost somewhere.)
Within a couple of days, I will e-mail you with a pro-forma invoice, stating the price, shipping cost, what is in stock and ready for shipment.  

For payments, we accept your Cashier's Check, International Money Order or Bank Transfer.  Usually it will take about 7-10 days for the payment to get here.  Once I receive your payment, I will then send out the parcel to you immediately.  The estimated total time takes between you placing an order to receiving the shipment will be about 25 days.

You may also pay by CREDIT CARD through www.paypal.com.  In order to use their service, you need to register with them directly.  Please check out the details from their web-site.

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What happens to back orders ?

Back orders or substitution normally won't happen!  Every time you place an order, I actually go through my stock and take out the items.   Then I list them on the pro-forma invoice.  This way, what you see on the pro-forma invoice is what you are going to get. 
Also, almost all items that I put on the website have sufficient stock.  Don't worry.

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Copyright © Four Seasons Gems. All rights reserved.
Revised: November 29, 2010.