OVERVIEW

This website is operated by The Back Vault. Throughout the site, the terms “we,” “us,” and “our” refer to The Back Vault. By visiting our site and/or transacting with us, including purchasing jewelry or submitting jewelry for potential purchase, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service (“Terms”).

These Terms cover both:
1. Seller Terms – for individuals sending and selling jewelry to The Back Vault.
2. Buyer Terms – for individuals purchasing jewelry from The Back Vault.

SECTION 1 – SELLER TERMS (SELLING JEWELRY TO THE BACK VAULT)

1.1 Outright Purchase Model
The Back Vault purchases items outright from individuals. We do not accept items on consignment.

1.2 Seller Representations & Warranties
By sending jewelry or related items (“Items”) to us, you represent and warrant that:
- You are the lawful owner with good and marketable title to the Item(s).
- The Item(s) are authentic and not counterfeit, stolen, altered, or encumbered by liens.
- The Item(s) comply with all applicable laws.
- You are acting in compliance with U.S. anti-money laundering (AML) laws.

We may request government-issued identification or other information to verify identity and comply with AML regulations.

1.3 Inspection & Offer
All Items submitted are subject to authentication and inspection. If we elect, we will provide you with a purchase offer. You may accept or decline. If declined or rejected, Items will be returned as described in Section 1.6.

1.4 Counterfeits & Illicit Items
- If an Item is determined to be counterfeit, stolen, or otherwise unlawful, The Back Vault reserves the right to surrender it to law enforcement and will not be obligated to return it.
- No payment will be made for counterfeit or illicit Items.

1.5 Title & Risk of Loss
- Title passes to The Back Vault only upon acceptance of your Item(s) and completion of payment.
- Risk of loss or damage is covered by insurance as described in Section 1.7.

1.6 Payment
If you accept our offer, payment will be issued within 2 business days by the method you select (e.g., wire transfer, check). Payments are final once issued. You are solely responsible for reporting and paying any applicable taxes on amounts received, and The Back Vault may issue IRS Form 1099 or other reporting documents as required by law.

1.7 Shipping & Insurance
- All shipments must use our approved FedEx labels and follow our shipping instructions.
- Items shipped with our labels are insured under FedEx’s standard coverage plus supplemental insurance arranged by The Back Vault.
- Sellers are required to provide an accurate description and estimated value of the Items being shipped so that appropriate insurance coverage can be arranged.
- Insurance applies only to shipments prepared and shipped in accordance with our instructions.
- Items remain fully insured while in transit to us and during our review period.

1.8 Rejected or Returned Items
- If we reject an Item or you decline our offer, it will be shipped back to you at our expense, fully insured.
- You must provide a valid and accurate return address. We are not responsible for loss due to incorrect addresses.

1.9 Condition & Alterations
We reserve the right to reject Items that are not in the described condition, have undisclosed damage, or contain aftermarket alterations (e.g., replaced stones, removed engravings, non-original parts).

1.10 Claim Period
Any claims for lost, damaged, or missing Items must be submitted to The Back Vault in writing within 30 days of payment (for purchased Items) or within 30 days of return shipment (for rejected Items). After this period, all claims are waived.

SECTION 2 – BUYER TERMS (PURCHASING JEWELRY FROM THE BACK VAULT)

2.1 Online Store Terms
By agreeing to these Terms, you represent that you are at least the age of majority in your state or province of residence. You may not use our products for any unlawful purpose or violate any laws in your jurisdiction.

2.2 General Conditions
We reserve the right to refuse service to anyone at any time. You agree not to reproduce, duplicate, copy, sell, or exploit any portion of the Service without our express written permission.

2.3 Accuracy of Information
We strive for accuracy but cannot guarantee that product descriptions, images, or pricing are error-free. Purchases should not be made in reliance solely on site content.

2.4 Pricing & Modifications
Prices are subject to change without notice. We may modify or discontinue any product at any time.

2.5 Products & Services
Certain products may be available exclusively online. Quantities may be limited and are subject to our Return Policy. Colors displayed may vary depending on your device.

2.6 Billing & Account Information
We may limit or cancel orders at our discretion, including those that appear to be placed by dealers or resellers. You agree to provide current, complete, and accurate purchase and account information.

SECTION 3 – ADDITIONAL LEGAL TERMS

3.1 Intellectual Property & Marketing
We may photograph, record, and market Items submitted to us during the evaluation process. All such content remains our property.

3.2 Disclaimer of Warranties & Limitation of Liability
We insure Items in transit and during review as stated above. Beyond that coverage, The Back Vault disclaims all warranties to the fullest extent permitted by law. Our total liability for any Item shall not exceed the greater of: (i) the purchase price we paid for that Item, or (ii) the insured declared value (if returned).

3.3 Indemnification
You agree to indemnify and hold harmless The Back Vault, its affiliates, employees, and contractors from any claims or damages arising from your breach of these Terms, including claims regarding title, authenticity, or ownership of Items.

3.4 Force Majeure
We are not liable for delays or failure to perform caused by events outside our control, including courier disruptions, natural disasters, labor disputes, or regulatory changes.

3.5 Dispute Resolution & Arbitration
To the fullest extent permitted by law, any disputes arising under these Terms shall be resolved by binding arbitration in the United States, NY under the rules of the American Arbitration Association. You waive the right to a jury trial.

3.6 Governing Law
These Terms are governed by the laws of the State of NY, without regard to conflicts of law.

3.7 Changes to Terms
We reserve the right to update these Terms at any time by posting updates on our website. Your continued use of the site or services constitutes acceptance of those changes.