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Frequently Asked Questions

How does the auction process work?
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Jewellery Auctions Unlimited uses a timed auction model. Timed auctions are similar to live auctions, however, the auction takes place online, and without an auctioneer. 

 

The auction normally runs over a period of 1 or 2 weeks. This extended time-frame means you can re-submit bids mid-auction, should your initial maximum bid be beaten. In this event, you’ll be notified, allowing you to bid again. 

 

How do I place a bid?

 

1. Create your account and complete the registration details. This only takes a few minutes and you’re ready to start bidding.

 

2. Browse the auction catalogues, and start bidding on items. You can ‘favourite’ items to keep an eye on them, place absentee bids, set maximum bids and keep up to date on new auctions.  

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3. Timed auctions are internet-only auctions that run for a set duration of time and are available for absentee bidding only. These auctions allow you to place bids until the scheduled end time for a particular item. Whoever has the highest bid when the time runs out wins the item.

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Timed auctions allow auctioneers to set reserves for their items, as they aren’t there to monitor the bidding live. A reserve is the minimum price that an auctioneer will sell their item for. Depending on bids placed, a “reserve not met” or “reserve met” message will display next to the bid box for any lots with reserves. If the reserve price has not been met by the time the auction ends, the item will not be sold.

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Another unique feature in our timed auctions is extended bidding. Invaluable does not allow sniping. If a bid is placed within the last 5 minutes of a lot's scheduled end time, we extend the sale by 5 minutes from the last bid. This way other bidders have a chance to place a bid. Extended bidding continues until 2 hours after the last lot’s scheduled end time.

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4. If you win an item at auction, you will be sent an invoice with payment details the next working day. Please note; if you are the successful bidder, you are obligated to pay the final bid price plus the fees and charges associated with that purchase, within two working days of the auction. 

 

What is an auction estimate?
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The estimated price is a guide for potential buyers, that indicates the price range in which the item is expected to sell, based on previous results and its market value.

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What is a reserve?
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The reserve is the minimum price the vendor is willing to accept for an item for sale at auction.  Legally, we cannot reveal the reserve price of an item.

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If you are the highest bidder and your bid has not met reserve, you may still be contacted by a team member if the items’ vendor has deemed the bid high enough to accept. We call this an 'after sale'. 

 

We only negotiate with the top bidder and the seller. Under bidders are not entertained until the top bidder passes on the lot. 

 

What is a Buyer’s Premium? How much is it?

 

The buyer’s premium is a charge in addition to the hammer price of an auction item, or lot. The winning bidder is required to pay both the hammer price and the percentage of that price called for by the buyer’s premium.

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Jewellery Auctions Unlimited has one of the lowest buyer’s premiums in the industry - just 13% for items purchased on the Jewellery Auctions platform, and 16% for items purchased through the Invaluable platform.

 

How can I be sure the jewellery is authentic?
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Jewellery Auctions Unlimited are a licensed auctioneer and all items sold at auction come with a certificate of authenticity and valuation. 

 

Can I inspect the item before purchasing?
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Jewellery Auctions Unlimited is an online only auction house, however our customer service team is happy to provide additional images or video on request. Please contact info@jewelleryauctionsunlimited.com.au 

 

How long do I have to pay?
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All goods must be paid for within two (2) working days after the auction by way of Direct Deposit. Delivery of goods is subject to full payment.

 

Do you charge shipping?
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Jewellery Auctions Unlimited charges a flat $15 shipping rate for domestic shipping within Australia for all jewellery pieces under $1,000. Orders over $1,000 qualify for free shipping.  This does not include loose stones, art work, porcelain and apparel. For shipping estimates on these items please contact us at info@jewelleryauctionsunlimited.com.au or phone 07 3924 2680. Please note that for security reasons Jewellery Auctions Unlimited does not deliver to PO Boxes or Parcel Collect facilities. 

 

International Shipping

Shipping to New Zealand AU$80.00

All other International destinations AU$100.00

 

​Shipping will occur within 48 hours of funds received and customers will be sent updates on their shipping as it happens. All orders are sent express with tracking numbers and are insured under our comprehensive insurance.

 

What happens if my shipment does not arrive?
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Please contact info@jewelleryauctionsunlimited.com.au if you have any issues. All orders are sent express with tracking numbers and are insured under our comprehensive insurance.

 

Do you offer refunds?
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Goods purchased at auction may not be returned. No allowances, refunds or warranties are offered with any lot whatsoever whether express or implied.

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