The 7 Most Common Frauds When Buying Original Art Deco Lamps on Chairish

Fake Designer Attribution: Be wary of lamps falsely advertised as being by renowned Art Deco designers. Authenticity is key, and verifying the designer's marks or provenance is crucial. Sellers are liable for false attribution, but Chairish does not authenticate items. Look for manufacturer markings, signatures, or stamps; their absence can indicate a reproduction.

Stolen High-End Gallery Photos: Scammers may use high-quality images from reputable galleries or previous listings to misrepresent a product. Always cross-reference images with other sources and be suspicious if a seller's photos seem too professional or are inconsistent with their other listings.

Vintage vs. Reproduction Bait: Many reproductions are made to closely resemble original Art Deco lamps, sometimes using materials like plastic instead of authentic glass or metal. Scammers exploit this by passing off fakes as genuine articles. Examine the materials (solid brass, glass, ceramic are good signs of vintage authenticity), look for signs of age like patina and wear, and be cautious of items that appear too perfect or lack distinguishing marks.

Unreported Structural Damage: While vintage items naturally show signs of age, significant unreported damage can be a scam. Inspect photos closely for cracks, chips, or missing components. Inquire about any repairs or restorations, and ask for written guarantees from the seller.

The 'Payment via Check' Trap: Offers to pay or receive payment via check, especially if it's for an amount slightly over the agreed price with a request to return the difference, is a classic scam. Checks can bounce, leaving you without the item or your money. Always use secure, traceable payment methods provided by the platform.

White-Glove Shipping Surcharge: While specialized shipping is necessary for large items like lamps, be cautious of excessive or vaguely explained 'white-glove' surcharges. Chairish has specific shipping policies for larger items, typically involving specialized partners. Ensure any shipping costs are clearly itemized and reasonable for the service provided.

Off-Platform 'Local Pickup' Fraud: If a seller insists on arranging a 'local pickup' outside of Chairish's platform, especially with a request for direct payment, it's a major red flag. This bypasses buyer protection and can lead to non-delivery or receiving a faulty item.