Collector services
Questions are where every collection begins.
From authenticity and certificates to shipping, returns, and selling a collection—we are here to make every part of the experience clear.
Start here
Clear answers for curious minds and serious collectors.
Every object is different, but the standards behind it should be easy to understand. Open a question below, or contact the Relic Room if your situation is unique.
Ordering & shipping
From our collection to yours.
How quickly will my order ship?+
We aim to ship most orders on the next business day. Orders placed on weekends, holidays, or during severe weather may take a little longer to process.
How long will delivery take?+
Delivery time depends on the carrier and service selected at checkout. Once an order leaves the Relic Room, transit estimates are controlled by the carrier and are not guaranteed.
How are fragile or one-of-a-kind objects packed?+
Every order is prepared with the object’s material, size, and condition in mind. Fossils, minerals, artifacts, and display pieces are carefully protected for shipment.
What should I do if my order arrives damaged or incorrect?+
Inspect your order when it arrives and contact us immediately if an item is damaged, defective, or incorrect. Photographs of the item and packaging will help us evaluate the issue quickly.
Returns & guarantees
Standing behind the collection.
What is your standard return window?+
Eligible items may be returned within 30 days of delivery. The item must be in the condition received, with its original packaging and proof of purchase. Contact us before sending anything back so we can provide instructions.
Read the complete refund policy ↗Are any items excluded from standard returns?+
Custom or personalized products, certain restricted materials, sale items, and gift cards may not be returnable. Please contact us before purchasing if you are unsure about a specific object.
What is the limited lifetime authenticity guarantee?+
Qualifying artifacts and fossils are protected for the lifetime of the original purchaser. If a qualified professional authenticator determines that an object is not the authentic artifact or fossil it was represented to be, it may be exchanged for an equal amount of merchandise under the terms of the guarantee.
What documentation is required for an authenticity claim?+
A written determination specific to the object is required from a certified authenticator working professionally in the relevant field. The guarantee applies only to the original purchaser, and proof of purchase should be retained.
Review the full guarantee terms ↗Authenticity & certificates
Real objects. Honest context.
Are the objects sold by the Relic Room authentic?+
Yes. Authenticity is central to the Relic Room. Objects are sourced through field relationships, established dealers, private collections, estates, shows, and direct discovery, then represented as accurately as possible.
Does every object include a certificate of authenticity?+
Many qualifying artifacts and fossils include an official certificate, but not every category or object requires one. The product listing will indicate when a certificate is included; contact us if you would like confirmation before purchasing.
Why are provenance and context important?+
An object is more meaningful when its origin, age, material, discovery, and historical setting are understood. We preserve and share that context whenever reliable information is available.
Selling a collection
Have history to share?
Does the Relic Room buy individual objects and collections?+
Yes. We are interested in reviewing unusual individual pieces as well as complete collections across many areas of natural and human history.
What should I send for an initial review?+
Email clear photographs, a detailed description, dimensions, any known history or provenance, and the price you are seeking. Please do not ship or bring an object without first speaking with the team.
Email the collection team ↗Will every submitted collection be purchased?+
No. Every submission is considered individually based on authenticity, condition, documentation, category, and current collection needs. A review does not guarantee an offer.
Visiting & contacting us
Come downstairs and ask us.
Where is the Relic Room located?+
The Relic Room is on the lower level of Smoky Mountain Knife Works at 2320 Winfield Dunn Parkway in Sevierville, Tennessee.
Plan your visit ↗When is the museum open?+
The Relic Room is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM Eastern Time. Holiday or weather-related changes may occasionally apply.
Can I explore the store before visiting?+
Yes. Our virtual tour lets you move through the Relic Room online and get a sense of the collection before arriving.
Enter the virtual tour ↗How can I reach collector services?+
Email info@therelicroom.com or call 865-366-8173. Customer service is available Monday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM Eastern Time.
Send an email ↗This FAQ is a plain-language guide. The store’s published policies govern purchases, returns, guarantees, and use of the website.
Still curious?