Frequently Asked Questions

How do you keep prices so low?

Prices are based upon incentives that we get from the manufacturers.  We pass the best possible prices along to our customers whenever we can.  Rest assured that everything we sell is brand new and first-quality.

Do you charge sales tax?

Residents outside the state of Virginia will not be charged sales tax on purchases. Think about how much you can save! Orders from within Virginia are charged 5% sales tax.

Does GiftCollector buy china, collectibles or figurines?

Unfortunately we acquire new items only from the manufacturers that we offer.  We regret that we do not buy items from third parties.

What is the value of my china, collectible or figurine?

GiftCollector sells only new items and so we cannot provide appraisals for older goods.

Does GiftCollector offer discontinued items?

We specialize in new items which we purchase directly from the manufacturer.  Available items are listed on our site so if you don’t see your pattern, a figurine or a collectible, it is no longer available.

Do you ship overseas?

Yes.  Shipping rates are based on the number of items and expected weight of packages being shipped.  No U.S. sales tax is charged for overseas orders.  For International Shipping rates please visit our Shipping Policy page

Where is my pattern produced?  My pattern is now made in China – is it counterfeit?

In order to offer the best value, many of the top brands we offer have moved their production from the UK to the Far East.  Popular patterns from Johnson Brothers, Franciscan and Spode are now produced in Asia.  The production is closely monitored for quality as well as passing the lead content standards established by California Proposition 65. 

If you are looking for dinnerware which is made in Europe, you may want to look at Burleigh, Denby, Villeroy and Boch, Herend and Gien.

Do you offer wedding registry services?

Yes.  Since 1968 our retail store, Chimney Corner, has been offering gift-registry services.  We continue this tradition with our online registry at GiftCollector.

Where is GiftCollector located?

We’re in Charlottesville, Virginia.  Mail should be directed to:

GiftCollector

1180 Seminole Trail, Ste. 385

Charlottesville, VA 22901

Do you offer engraving or personalization service?

While we do not offer on-site engraving services, there are some items we offer that may be personalized.  These include items from Salisbury Pewter and Lladro.  These manufacturers provide the personalization service. 

There are other items that may be engraved, however, this should be done locally once you receive your order.

Do you offer corporate gifts?

Yes.  For assistance and pricing, please call our toll-free number at 866-923-0001.  We’re happy to assist with large volume orders.  For help with these types of orders, please call our customer service department M-F between 9am and 6pm EST.

California Prop 65

All products are tested by the manufacturers.  We are required by law to include a Proposition 65 notice in all orders shipping to California when any product contains chemicals which may be considered harmful. All dinnerware that we sell meets FDA requirements for lead content. 

Any item that is intended for decorative use only is marked as such.   

Can you send me a Catalog?

While we have printed catalogues in the past, we have found that we can offer more products with the most up to date information and pricing using just our website. Deciding to no longer print catalogs was also a conscious decision to become a "green" company.

How Do I Change an Order/Cancel an Order?

While we respond to emails as quickly as possible, it may take us longer during peak times to respond to each message.  If you need to make a change to an order, please call our toll-free number at 866-923-0001.  And we will do our best to make the changes.  Please note that once submitted some orders may be too far along in the fulfillment process to be canceled.

Is the GiftCollector Site Secure?

Yes.  We use a top tier Secure Socket Layer (SSL) Certificate company, Comodo, that allows for data encryption on the website. This is just a fancy way of saying your data is safe when entering it during the checkout process of our website. In addition, your credit card information is never stored on our website so it cannot be accessed online. 

What is GiftCollector’s Return Policy?

If you’re not entirely happy with your purchase, you can return it 90 days after receipt of an item.  For more details please see our Returns Policy.

What if I get Damaged or Defective Items?

We’re here to help.  No matter what the problem, we’ll take care of it.  We want you to be happy with your purchase and make sure that you get the items in the best possible condition.

What are your Shipping Rates?

For Domestic and Overseas shipping rates please visit our Shipping Policy page. 

Are All Items In Stock?

We carry a large inventory of items.  In fact, there are more than 30,000 items on our website.  We ship from both our warehouse as well as those of our manufacturers.  Most items are in stock.  Our site is not linked to each warehouse so actual inventory may differ.  For more information about inventory, please call during regular business hours at 866-923-0001 and we’ll be happy to check for you.