Frequently Asked Questions

Who are we? Amethyst Cottage is a small, home-based business owned by Melissa Thorner. I have worked hard to bring you the best product selection at the best prices since early 2005. For those of you who like to know such things, I am also mom to a 12 year-old son, have been married to the same man since 1994, and work part-time at another online job. I also make jewelry and am an avid (my husband would say obsessed) knitter. I hope to combine the latter two and bring a new product line of my own to Amethyst Cottage in the not-too-distant future.

[ Back to top ]

Do you have a brick & mortar location? At this time, we are strictly Web-based. For our customers in and around Crestview, Florida, we are always glad to make arrangements for pickup or delivery - anything to make it easier for you!

[ Back to top ]

Is my online purchase secure? Yes! We utilize SSL (Secure Socket Layer) to protect your transaction details. We are fully PCI-DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) compliant with the most updated software, and do not store any of your credit card information in our databases. Look for "https" at the beginning of the URL in your address bar to verify a secure connection.

[ Back to top ]

What methods of payment do you accept? We accept VISA, MasterCard, and PayPal securely through the website. Local customers may also pay by cash or check at the time of delivery.

[ Back to top ]

How do you calculate shipping? We charge exact shipping based on the weight of your order, plus insurance based on its value. There are no hidden "handling" fees, and we do not make a profit off shipping. If the shopping cart overestimates the amount it costs to ship your package, we will refund the difference to your credit card or PayPal account at the time of shipping. You will receive an email from us at the time of shipping that includes your tracking information as well as any refund we've issued.

If you live in or near Crestview, Florida, please contact us for delivery or pickup options so you don't have to pay shipping!

[ Back to top ]

Where are you located, and where do you ship? We are based in the Florida panhandle, and we ship worldwide - including customs forms. We will also handle "Secret Pal" swaps if you like - just let us know and we'll be happy to help!

[ Back to top ]

How can I find out what my shipping will cost before I order? For a shipping estimate, select the items you're interested in purchasing, and then click "estimate shipping" at the shopping cart page. All domestic shipping costs include insurance based on the value of your merchandise.

[ Back to top ]

What is your return/exchange policy? Exchanges are accepted within 7 business days if there is a flaw or mistake on our part, or if clothes do not fit; we generally do not refund shipping costs. Please contact us for return authorization and information.

[ Back to top ]

Do you have a discussion forum? Yes! Please join us on Facebook for discussion, sales, and more (you don't have to be a member of Facebook)!