FAQs

Below are some answers to frequently asked questions. If you do not see a topic covered, please contact us and we will add it.

CARE

What is the best way to prevent tarnish?

Use! Frequent use prevents the tarnish from forming on the surface of the silver.

What polish do you recommend?

We recommend polishes that are specifically designed for silver and contain tarnish preventative agents, like Hagerty, Gorham, Goddards. All metal polishes are too abrasive for regular use on silver. Chemical dips and electrolytic cleaning can damage silver, and should be reserved for professionals.

GUARANTEE

How can I be assured of a piece's authenticity?

Nothing gives us greater pleasure than sharing our passion and knowledge for silver. Our referencee library currently contains over 2000 volumes on silver, and is still expanding. We welcome the opportunity to explore a topic via references with you, or provide a bibliography to aid in the building of your own library.

Rest assured that each item from The Silver Vault of Charleston is accompanied by a written guarantee of composition, approximate age, origin, and maker, if known.

INVENTORY

Is all of your inventory on your site?

No. Our inventory changes on a daily basis, with some items selling before their label is printed. If you are looking for something not featured, please contact us.

EXCHANGES AND RETURNS

What is your exchange and return policy?

Our goal is that your purchase brings you years of pleasure. If you are not satisfied with your purchase for any reason at any time, please return it. Please follow the link here for our full exchange and return policy.

PAYMENTS AND FINANCES

What forms of payment do you accept?
You may select your preferred payment method at checkout. We accept secure payment for both local and international customers via credit cards, debit cards and Paypal. We also accept offline payments via check, certified check and direct bank deposit. Cash on deliver is available in Charleston, SC. Please note that additional exchange fees may apply if your currency is other than US dollars.
May I pay over time?
Absolutely! We are happy to work with you to obtain that special piece, in a program called Extended Acquisitions. It is customized based on your needs and is interest free in many instances. Upon selecting an item, together we determine a duration of time that is comfortable for you to remit payments. We ask for a 25% deposit down payment. You will receive monthly statements, while the item remains secure in our vault. Shipping fees, if applicable are calculated and due with the final payment.
I live outside the US. Do I have to pay taxes and duties?
It depends on your country's tax policy. You are responsible for any taxes, duties and fees. We are glad to provide any information you may need for remittance.

SHIPPING

Do you ship? If so, where?
We ship within the US and most places worldwide. While we polish, check, package and ship most items, occasionally we employ third party shipping firms to package and shipping delicate or large items. If your item or items fall into this latter circumstance, we will let you know which firm will be handling the packaging and shipping prior to its departure.
When will my package arrive?
Most packages are processed for shipping within a dew days. Packages usually arrive to US destinations within 7 business days. Shipping time to international destinations vary depending on location, shipment method and other factors. Full prices will be displayed at checkout.
My item was damaged in shipment? What do I do?
While we do our best to ensure your items arrives to you safely, occasionally circumstances happen beyond our control. Should that happen, save all packing material, note the date you received the package, how it was delivered and contact us within 24 hours of the discovery. We will contact the necessary provider and seek resolution.

PURCHASING ITEMS OR COLLECTIONS

Do you purchase from individuals?
Occasionally we do purchase from individuals. Hopefully, you will get a sense of the types of items we seek while looking through the site. If you do not see your item within the pages, we still may be interested. We invite you to send images to our email and we will respond. The more distinctive, the better!

SERVICES

Can you tell me what my silver is worth?

Yes, we are certified appraisers and are happy to help provide insight into your silver's value.

Do you offer verbal appraisal?

No, as it is not in the best interest of the client or us. There are many details that influence the value of a piece or collection, like condition, influences in the marketplace , the price of silver on the commodities market, etc. A written report is necessary in order to explain, document, and disclose the factors that impact the opinion of value.