A buyer in Berlin walked away from a custom order last year because the deposit terms were unclear. They had paid 50% up front, then got a second invoice for the remaining 50% before casting, and a third for shipping. That is not how we quote. Custom moissanite orders have three defined payment points, and we list all three on the proforma invoice before the buyer signs.
Below are the deposit, balance and shipping terms we use for wholesale custom orders, so buyers know exactly when money moves.
Three payment points, not four
We split a custom order into three payments:
- Deposit (40%): paid at order confirmation. This releases the CAD stage and covers the stone sourcing. The deposit is non-refundable once the first render is delivered, because the stone and the CAD work are already committed.
- Balance (50%): paid on render approval, before casting. This is the payment that releases the file into production.
- Shipping (10%): paid before dispatch, covering freight and insurance. This is usually the smallest line but the one buyers forget.
For orders under USD 1,500 we collapse the shipping into the balance, so it is effectively a 50/50 split. For orders over USD 10,000 we offer a 30/50/20 split. Our small-batch MOQ guide lists the per-unit price steps that determine which split applies. Mixed orders that combine a custom ring with stock moissanite stones are quoted under the 50/50 split regardless of total value, because the stock side ships immediately while the custom side waits for the render.
What the deposit covers
The deposit covers two things: the CAD render work (two rounds) and the moissanite stone sourcing. We source graded stones to IGI moissanite standards, and the stone is paid for out of the deposit. If the buyer cancels before the first render, we refund the deposit minus the CAD time (currently USD 80). If the buyer cancels after the first render, the deposit is not refundable because the stone has been purchased.
Methods we accept
We accept T/T wire transfer, PayPal (for orders under USD 3,000), and credit card through our payment processor for small orders. Wire is the default for wholesale; the bank details are on the proforma. We do not accept crypto, and we do not extend open credit to first-time buyers. Repeat buyers with six or more orders can apply for net-30 terms after their third paid order. All invoices are issued in US dollars; buyers paying in euros or pounds settle at the wire rate on the day the balance clears, and we note that rate on the proforma so there are no surprises when the bank statement arrives.
If the balance is not paid within 14 days of render approval, we hold the CAD file on our server for a further 14 days and then release it. The deposit stays committed to the stone, but the buyer can re-quote the render at the current price when they are ready. We do not charge a storage fee during the 28-day window, and we do not re-use the buyer's design for another client.
Lead time and when the clock starts
The 18 to 22 working day lead time starts when the balance clears, not when the deposit is paid. A buyer who pays the deposit on Monday and approves the render three weeks later has not started the clock. We note this on the proforma so buyers do not expect delivery before they have approved the render. Our rush order process explains the 25% surcharge for a shortened lead time.
Refund and dispute policy
We cover manufacturing defects under our QC guarantee; a defective piece is remade at our cost. A buyer who changes the design after render approval is not eligible for a refund; the CAD and stone are already committed. Disputes are resolved under the FTC Jewelry Guides framework for disclosure of materials, which we list on every product page. Our QC checks guide lists what is covered.
How much deposit do you require?
40% on a standard order, 30% on orders over USD 10,000. The deposit is non-refundable after the first render is delivered.
When is the balance due?
On render approval, before casting. The 18 to 22 day production clock starts when the balance clears.
Do you offer net-30 terms?
Only to repeat buyers with six or more paid orders. First-time buyers pay by wire, PayPal or card.
What if I cancel before the first render?
We refund the deposit minus USD 80 CAD time. After the first render, the deposit is committed to the stone and is not refundable.
Is shipping included in the balance?
For orders under USD 1,500, yes. For larger orders, shipping is a separate 10% line paid before dispatch.
Send us the spec sheet and the target quantity. We return a proforma invoice with the three payment points and the lead time. Request your custom moissanite order quote today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is moissanite a good diamond alternative for retail buyers?
Yes for price-sensitive customers who want brilliance and hardness. Moissanite ranks 9.25 on the Mohs scale, holds up to daily wear and costs a fraction of a natural diamond of the same size, so it resells fast in bridal and fashion lines.
What is the minimum order for wholesale moissanite?
MOQ starts at 50 pieces per design for stock items. Custom cuts and private-label settings usually start at 100–300 pieces depending on the mold.
Do you provide certificates with moissanite stones?
Yes. Every parcel ships with GRA or IGI documentation listing carat weight, color grade and cut. We recommend passing the certificate to your end customer for trust.
How long does sample and bulk production take?
Samples ship in 3–5 days. Bulk runs take 15–20 days under 500 pieces, and 25–30 days for custom work.
