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shipping, refunds and exchanges

Worldwide Delivery,
Handled With Love and Precision

 

Each of our musical instruments is meticulously handcrafted upon request with the utmost care and attention to detail. The typical crafting time ranges from 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the instrument type and current demand. During peak periods, it may take slightly longer; during quieter times, it may be completed sooner (sometimes within a week).

Once your instrument is ready, you’ll receive a tracking number to follow her journey to your doorstep. Shipping typically takes 1 to 2 weeks, depending on your location.

All orders are securely packaged, insured, and clearly marked as fragile, then shipped via reputable, premium shipping carriers to ensure safe and timely delivery.

Premium Shipping

This is our default and highly recommended shipping method to ensure your handcrafted musical instrument arrives safely and on time. We work exclusively with premium carriers such as FedEx, offering fast delivery and full shipping insurance for your peace of mind.

Each order using this shipping option:

  • Is carefully and lovingly packaged, with extra protective measures and clearly marked as fragile.
  • Includes a tracking number, so you can follow your lyre’s journey at any time.
  • Ships through trusted, high-quality carriers only.
  • Is fully insured for the total value of your order.
  • Arrives in half the time compared to standard shipping options.
  • Comes with guaranteed replacement: if something goes wrong during shipping, we will craft and send a new instrument at no additional cost to you.

We treat every lyre as a one-of-a-kind treasure — and we make sure she travels like one too.

Simple Shipping (No Longer Supported)

This was once the most affordable shipping method we offered for delivering our lovingly handcrafted musical instruments. However, due to repeated mishandling incidents by various national postal carriers around the world, we have decided not to support this method anymore. We see each of our lyres as a creation born from deep care and craftsmanship — almost like sending our children out into the world. And frankly, this shipping route too often felt like sending them into a war zone. We simply can’t continue to take that risk with something so precious.

For reference, here’s how this option functioned:

  • Orders were carefully packaged with love, marked clearly as fragile.
  • A tracking number was provided for basic shipment visibility.
  • Shipments were handled by Hellenic Post (Greece’s national carrier).
  • Delivery was completed by your country’s local postal service (e.g., USPS in the United States).

Should any customer experience issues under this method in the past, the LUTHIEROS family has always stood by them, offering our support and helping find the best possible resolution — and we will continue to do so.

Until today, all of our beautifully handcrafted instruments have reached their new homes around the world safely and without issue.

Please also note:

  • Import taxes are determined and collected by the customs authorities of the destination country and are beyond our control.

  • Orders shipped within the European Union are not subject to import taxes.

    Our Craftsmanship Guarantee

     

    At LUTHIEROS, every musical instrument is lovingly handcrafted after each order is placed. No molds, no mass production — just human hands, natural materials, and years of tradition & expertise. This means that each instrument is a one-of-a-kind creation, shaped by both intention and the natural variation found in wood, horn, and skin.

    Naturally, we stand behind our instruments and our art, offering a 100% guarantee on craftsmanship and structural integrity of our instruments. If any material fault or structural defect occurs, we’ll repair it at no cost to you — covering materials and labor.

    On the other hand, it is truly important to understand and accept all the following: 

    • All our instruments—without exception—are handcrafted, naturally resulting in variations in color, grain, dimensions, texture, shape, etc. — which are not flaws, but features of a handcrafted item
    • Our master luthiers always prioritize musicality and sound quality above all, meaning that thoughtful enhancements are applied when they contribute to this goal. After all, what you are ordering is a musical instrument! If aesthetics is a top priority for you, we kindly ask that you let us know before placing your order.
    • Strings are handmade and may require some days of tuning adjustment. This is entirely normal, especially with natural gut or sugar-based strings.
    • Minor surface marks or aesthetic “blemishes” that do not affect playability or durability are expected and embraced as part of what makes your instrument truly yours.

    If you’re ever unsure about an instrument or would like help choosing the right model for your needs, we’re always here to offer guidance — before and after your purchase. Just send an email to info@luthieros.com 

    Thank you for supporting true craftsmanship — and for helping us keep ancient music alive.

    100% Guaranteed Delivery

     

    Over the past few years, only a very small percentage of our shipments have experienced delays — most of which were during the global disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. While such delays are beyond our control, the LUTHIEROS family is committed to ensuring that every order reaches its destination, no matter the circumstances.

    Please note that we cannot accept cancellations due to shipping delays. If timely delivery is essential for you, we strongly encourage you to contact us before placing your order so we can discuss the best options.

    Additionally, keep in mind that every musical instrument is handcrafted with great care and attention to detail, and is made to order. The standard crafting time is typically 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the type of instrument and the volume of orders at the time.

    Once again — if timing is important, don’t hesitate to reach out before ordering. We’re here to help! We also keep a small, curated selection of ready-to-ship instruments for those in a real hurry — feel free to ask us what’s currently available.

    Return & Refund Policy

    Handcrafted with care — one by one, for one.

     

    At LUTHIEROS, every musical instrument is lovingly handcrafted after each order is placed. No molds, no mass production — just human hands, natural materials, and years of tradition & expertise. This means that each instrument is a one-of-a-kind creation, shaped by both intention and the natural variation found in wood, horn, and skin.

    That said, we understand that sometimes a return may be necessary. While we do accept returns, our process reflects the bespoke nature of our work — and the care with which each instrument is brought to life.

     

    We Accept Returns — No Questions Asked

    You may return your instrument within 14 calendar days of receiving it — no explanation required. That said, we’re always grateful for feedback and happy to understand your thoughts, not to persuade, but to grow.

    If you choose to return an instrument, we ask that you treat it with the same love and respect we gave her when she first left our workshop.

    To initiate a return:

    1. Contact us first at info@luthieros.com to let us know your intent. This way, we can prepare to welcome the lyre home.
    2. Use a reliable shipping company of your choice.
    3. Shipping arrangements must be made by the customer.
    4. The return must be fully insured for the instrument’s full value.
    5. All shipping, insurance, customs duties, import fees, and intermediary charges are the responsibility of the customer.
    6. Once we receive your returned item, we’ll aim to process your refund within 3 to 10 business days. Please note that it may take up to an additional 10 business days for the refunded amount to appear in your bank account — this timeline depends on your bank’s processing speed and is beyond our control.
    7. Any fees we may have to cover during the instrument’s return (such as re-import customs clearance or re-import handling fees) are also deducted from the final refund.

     

    Exclusions

    • Custom-made instruments (with personalized features or specifications) are not eligible for return or refund.

     

    Who Pays for Return or Exchange Shipping Costs?

    The customer is responsible for the shipping costs associated with returns or exchanges, including insurance and any applicable customs or handling fees, when:

    • The instrument or product does not meet the customer’s expectations.
    • The selected style, size, or aesthetic details (e.g., color, horn shape, etc.) do not match the customer’s personal preferences.
    • The customer simply wishes to return the item or exchange it for a different one.
    • The customer does not wish to pay import taxes or share their personal details with the customs office of their country.

    Please note that every LUTHIEROS instrument is a one-of-a-kind creation, handcrafted from natural materials. Slight aesthetic variations — in color, texture, horn curvature, or grain — are not considered defects, but signs of authenticity. Additionally, adjustments in size, shape, or dimensions that enhance acoustics are an intentional part of an artisan instrument’s evolution. Such refinements are made when they serve the greater purpose of achieving a fuller, more resonant, and timbre-rich sound, and are therefore to be expected and embraced.

     

    When Does LUTHIEROS Cover the Return Shipping Costs?

    We will cover return shipping costs (and process full refunds or exchanges at no additional charge) if:

    • The instrument arrives with a structural or manufacturing defect that makes it unusable.
    • You were sent the wrong instrument or product from what you specified in your order.
    • Your instrument or item was damaged during shipment, and you notified us immediately with photo documentation upon delivery; we will take full responsibility. 

    In these rare cases, please contact us immediately at info@luthieros.com, and we will guide you through the following steps, making all the return arrangements needed. Your satisfaction, trust, and experience with our work are of utmost importance to us.

    Please note that:

    • Even if every instrument is fully insured for such cases, timing is critical: insurance providers require proof of shipping-related damage to be submitted within 24-48 hours of delivery. Failing to report the issue within this timeframe may result in the claim being denied and the damage not being covered.
    • Any damage resulting from the customer’s mishandling is not considered a valid reason for return and falls outside the scope of our return policy. In such rare cases, our Master Luthiers are here to support you — offering expert guidance and personalized advice to help you care for and restore your beloved instrument.

     

    What Will Be Refunded?

    The refund will cover the cost of the instrument and any additional products purchased.

    Please note the following conditions:

    • Shipping and insurance fees are non-refundable.
    • Any customs duties, import taxes, or handling fees already paid are also non-refundable.
    • If we incur additional costs during the return process (e.g., customs clearance, intermediary processing fees), these will be deducted from the refund total.
    • If the instrument is returned damaged, noticeably worn, or missing any original documentation, accessories, or packaging, we reserve the right to deduct a fair amount to cover restoration or replacement costs before the instrument can be made available for a new home.
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