Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Welcome to The Provenance. Here you'll find answers to our most common questions. Our goal is to provide you with complete confidence and transparency in every aspect of your experience with us.
If you cannot find the answer you are looking for, please contact us directly.
Authenticity & Our Specimens
How do I know the fossils and minerals are real?
Authenticity is the bedrock of our entire collection. Every specimen our vendor partners list undergoes a rigorous, multi-step verification process conducted by our network of experienced curators, palaeontologists, historians, and geologists. They meticulously research each piece's origin and document its history.
Additionally, many of our significant items are accompanied by a signed Certificate of Authenticity.
Is the item in the photo the exact one I will receive?
Yes. Every specimen our vendor partners list is a unique, one-of-a-kind piece of natural history (excluding items listed under the Replicas category). The item you see in the photographs is the exact piece you will receive. We never use stock photos for our primary specimens.
Can you provide more information or photos of a specific item?
Absolutely. We are passionate about the stories these objects tell and our vendor partners are happy to provide more details. If you require additional photos from specific angles, a short video, or further information from our curator's notes, please use the "Enquire About This Item" link on the product page.
Shipping & Handling
How do you pack fragile items for shipping?
Our vendor partners pack every item to museum-quality standards, with several layers of protection to ensure your piece arrives perfectly. Typically a specimen is:
- First wrapped in soft, archival-quality tissue
- Cushioned with generous protective material (bubble wrap or eco-friendly crinkle-cut paper)
- Placed in a sturdy, often double-walled, shipping box with additional padding to prevent movement
Please note that packing is item dependent and tailored to each piece's specific fragility and size.
Do you ship to my country?
Yes, we are proud to ship our collection to enthusiasts and collectors around the world.
- Within Australia: We use Australia Post, with options for standard and express delivery.
- International: We use trusted carriers like DHL and FedEx to ensure reliable and timely delivery.
Shipping costs and delivery times vary by location and are calculated at checkout. Please be aware that international orders may be subject to customs duties, taxes, or import fees determined by the destination country — these charges are the responsibility of the recipient.
How long will it take for my order to be shipped?
Our vendor partners are located around the world. Orders are typically processed and dispatched within one week. You will receive a shipping confirmation email with tracking information as soon as your order is on its way.
Returns & Customer Service
What is your policy if an item arrives damaged?
While we take extreme care in packaging, on very rare occasions damage can occur in transit. If your item arrives damaged, please follow these steps:
- Contact the vendor partner within 48 hours of delivery
- Take clear photos of the damaged item and the packaging it arrived in — this is crucial for any insurance claim
- Send these to us and we will work with you directly to determine a course of action
What if I change my mind about a purchase?
We want you to be completely satisfied with your piece of history. However, a return policy needs to be negotiated directly with your vendor partner — ideally before you make the purchase. We encourage all buyers to ask their vendor about returns prior to completing an order.
Still have questions? Contact us →