7 Warning Signs of Scams When Buying Designer Oriental Rugs on Chairish

Fake Designer Attribution: Be wary of rugs misrepresented as rare or designer when they are not. Authentic designer oriental rugs have distinct characteristics. Look for inconsistencies in weave, material (e.g., synthetic backing on a supposedly handmade rug), and design. Scammers may use high-quality photos of genuine items while shipping fakes, or misrepresent the origin and craftsmanship. Always research the specific designer and style, and if possible, verify with an independent appraiser for high-value purchases.

Stolen High-End Gallery Photos: Sellers might use professional photographs from legitimate galleries or auction houses to make a rug appear more appealing or authentic. If the description or the seller's history seems too good to be true, or if the photos appear overly polished and lack context, it could be a sign of stolen imagery. Always request additional, unedited photos and videos of the actual rug from different angles.

Vintage vs. Reproduction Bait: The line between a genuine vintage piece and a modern reproduction can be blurred. Scammers may sell newly made rugs as antique or vintage, often using artificial aging techniques. Examine the rug's backing, fringe, and the overall wear and tear. Authentic vintage rugs often show subtle imperfections and unique character that reproductions lack.

Unreported Structural Damage: While vintage rugs may have minor imperfections, significant, undisclosed structural damage can devalue the item considerably. This could include hidden tears, color fading, rot, or pest damage. Sellers might obscure these issues in photos or descriptions. Always scrutinize photos for any signs of damage and ask direct questions about the rug's condition.

The 'Payment via Check' Trap: While Chairish has its own payment system, be extremely cautious if a seller requests payment outside the platform, especially via check or money order. This is a common tactic to bypass platform protections and make it difficult to recover funds if the item is not as described or never arrives. Always keep transactions within Chairish's secure payment gateway.

Off-Platform 'Local Pickup' Fraud: If a seller suggests meeting for a 'local pickup' outside of Chairish's established shipping and handling process, be highly suspicious. This can be a way to bypass platform mediation and protection, leading to potential theft or misrepresentation. It's best to adhere to the platform's recommended shipping procedures.

White-Glove Shipping Surcharge: While Chairish does offer 'In-Home' or 'White Glove' delivery for certain items, be sure the quoted surcharge is legitimate and clearly itemized. Scammers might inflate these costs or offer a non-existent service. Always confirm the details of the shipping service and ensure it aligns with Chairish's stated policies.