Is Chairish a Scam? Expert Guide to Avoiding Art Deco Lamp Frauds in 2026

Fake Designer Attribution: Be wary of lamps advertised as designer pieces without verifiable proof of authenticity. Scammers may falsely attribute lamps to renowned Art Deco designers to inflate prices. Always look for maker's marks, documented provenance, and compare the item to known authentic examples. If a seller claims a designer but cannot provide proof, it may be 'styled after' or 'attributed to' rather than a true original.

Vintage vs. Reproduction Bait: The market is flooded with reproductions that can be difficult to distinguish from originals. Scammers may present high-quality replicas as genuine Art Deco lamps, sometimes using misleading language like 'Art Deco Style' or 'Inspired by Art Deco'. Examine the materials (e.g., avoid plastic if originals were not made of it), construction, finish, and wiring for signs of recent manufacturing. Look for original patina and evidence of age, which reproductions often lack.

Stolen High-End Gallery Photos: Some scammers use professional photographs of genuine, high-value items to advertise fakes. Always scrutinize the seller's other listings and reviews. If a seller has a pattern of suspiciously low prices for rare items or uses stock imagery, it's a red flag.

The 'Payment via Check' Trap: Be extremely cautious if a seller requests payment via check, especially cashier's checks or money orders. Scammers send fake checks for more than the agreed price, asking you to wire back the difference before the fraudulent check bounces. This can lead to significant financial loss. Stick to secure payment methods offered by Chairish.

Unreported Structural Damage: Sellers might conceal cracks, chips, or other structural issues that are not immediately apparent. Carefully examine all provided images and request additional photos or videos if necessary, especially of any joins, bases, or intricate details. Consider using Safe Trade Services' ID verification, especially for higher-value items, to ensure the seller is legitimate and transparent about the item's condition.

Account Takeover via Phishing: Be vigilant against emails or messages that impersonate Chairish, asking for login details or personal information. Always verify the sender's email address and never click on suspicious links or download attachments. Chairish will never ask for your password or financial details via email.