Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions from suppliers about working with GAIA. For additional inquiries, please contact GAIA directly.
Q1: What kind of manufacturing partners does GAIA work best with?
A1: GAIA works best with suppliers who can maintain consistent finishing in small-lot production, communicate feasibility early, and provide itemized quotations with clear assumptions.
Q2: What is GAIA's typical order volume?
A2: Most current partner factories support pilot runs around 5–10 pcs per SKU. GAIA respects each factory's MOQ and mixing rules—suppliers are welcome to propose terms by email for alignment. GAIA can evaluate and accept other MOQ proposals if pricing and lead time are workable.
Q3: What types of products does GAIA focus on?
A3: GAIA focuses on blessing-inspired accessories built around symbolic themes drawn from different beliefs and regions. GAIA's core product types include necklaces, earrings, rings, and bracelets, primarily in sterling silver with defined plating options for durability and consistency. GAIA may also develop other blessing-related items (e.g., bag charms and desk ornaments) when capabilities align.
Q4: What should suppliers provide so GAIA can request and compare quotations consistently?
A4: Suppliers provide an itemized quotation covering: unit price, tooling/jigs (separate line), stones (type/size/qty + setting cost), plating stack + thickness (µm), enamel/coating, one-time fees, currency, Incoterms (EXW/FOB), and ship-from location. Suppliers also state MOQ rules, lead times, and start triggers.
Q5: What lead times does GAIA expect from suppliers?
A5: GAIA confirms lead times per project. Suppliers quote sample and mass-production lead times separately and state the start trigger (e.g., CAD/spec approval, deposit confirmation).
Q6: How does GAIA approve samples?
A6: GAIA approves samples against the finalized specification and the approved sample standard. Any deviation requires written alignment before mass production.
Q7: What quality standards does GAIA expect?
A7: GAIA expects consistency with the approved sample, clean finishing, and compliance with the stated materials and plating system. Suppliers disclose tolerance capability and inspection method in the quotation.
Q8: What is GAIA's gemstone policy?
A8: GAIA uses natural gemstones and semi-precious stones. If a stone has undergone any treatment, enhancement, processing, or optimization, suppliers disclose the exact method in writing before sampling and on the quotation/PI.
Q9: How should suppliers present tooling fees (if any)?
A9: Suppliers quote tooling fees as a separate line item and specify ownership, maintenance responsibility, and whether the fee is refundable or amortized.
Q10: How does GAIA handle IP and confidentiality?
A10: Designs and files provided by GAIA remain GAIA's intellectual property. Suppliers do not reproduce, sell, or share GAIA designs with third parties. GAIA provides an NDA if needed.
Q11: What shipping terms does GAIA use?
A11: GAIA confirms Incoterms (EXW/FOB) and ship-from location per project. Suppliers state preferred Incoterms in the quotation.
Q12: What are GAIA's payment terms?
A12: For samples: GAIA proposes 100% prepayment before production begins. For mass production: GAIA typically proposes 30% deposit upon order confirmation and 70% balance before shipment. For established partnerships, GAIA discusses alternative terms.
Q13: What currency does GAIA use for transactions?
A13: GAIA typically transacts in USD or TWD. If suppliers require another currency, suppliers state it clearly in the quotation for evaluation.
Q14: Do blessing rituals affect manufacturing?
A14: Blessing rituals do not affect the manufacturing process. No changes to the production workflow are required.
Q15: How should suppliers contact GAIA?
A15: Suppliers email GAIA with capability deck, MOQ rules, lead times, and an itemized quotation. After receiving complete information, GAIA aims to reply within 48 business hours. Response time can be longer during overseas travel.