7 Warning Signs of Scammers Targeting Antique Persian Kilim Buyers on Chairish

The 'Vintage vs. Reproduction' Bait: Be wary of listings that heavily promote a 'vintage' or 'distressed' look without clear evidence of age. New rugs can be chemically treated to appear old, compromising their integrity and value. Genuine wear on antique kilims is uneven, unlike the uniform 'distressing' on reproductions.

Stolen High-End Gallery Photos: Scammers may use professional photographs stolen from reputable galleries or other listings to misrepresent the condition or authenticity of a rug. Always examine multiple photos from different angles and scrutinize the details for consistency and authenticity.

Fake Restoration Certificate: Some sellers might provide fraudulent certificates of authenticity or restoration. Genuine antique kilims may show signs of wear and repair, but look for inconsistencies or overly perfect 'restorations' that seem suspicious. It's best to have an expert appraise the item for high-value purchases.

Unreported Structural Damage: Hidden damage such as rot, moth damage, or chemical degradation can significantly devalue a kilim. Sellers might omit this information in descriptions or provide vague condition reports. Always ask specific questions about odors, repairs, and any known damage.

The 'Payment via Check' Trap: While less common on platforms like Chairish which facilitate secure payments, be extremely cautious if a seller requests payment outside the platform or via check, especially for high-value items. This is often a tactic to avoid platform protections and verification.

White-Glove Shipping Surcharge: While legitimate shipping costs are expected, be wary of excessive or unexplained 'white-glove' shipping charges that seem inflated. Always clarify shipping costs and methods upfront.

Insurance Claim Extortion (related to condition): While not a direct scam on the buyer, a seller might exaggerate minor flaws to claim insurance for damage that didn't occur or was pre-existing, potentially inflating the item's value or justifying unusually high prices. Be sure the condition described matches the item's actual state.