How to Avoid Common Frauds When Buying Silver-Plated Candelabra on Chairish
Learn to navigate the Chairish marketplace safely and avoid common scams when purchasing silver-plated candelabra. This guide details specific fraud tactics and how to protect yourself from them.
Navigating Chairish: Safeguarding Your Purchase of Silver-Plated Candelabra
Chairish is a popular platform for unique and high-end home decor, including items like silver-plated candelabra. While the platform aims to provide a secure environment, it's crucial for buyers to be aware of potential fraudulent activities. This guide will help you identify and avoid common scams specific to this market.
Recognizing and Evading Common Scams
White-Glove Shipping Surcharge Scams: Be wary of inflated 'white-glove' shipping fees. Scammers may add excessive charges for specialized delivery that isn't actually provided, or the service may be substandard. Always clarify the exact services included in the shipping cost and research the shipping provider if possible.
Fake Designer Attribution and Vintage vs. Reproduction Bait: Scammers may misrepresent the origin or age of a silver-plated candelabra, attributing it to a famous designer or claiming it's a rare antique when it's a reproduction. Always research the item's markings, style, and history. Look for hallmarks and maker's marks, as genuine antique silver pieces will have them. Silver-plated items may be marked with 'EPNS' or 'A1'. Be skeptical of descriptions that lack clear provenance or verifiable details.
Stolen High-End Gallery Photos: Some fraudulent listings use high-quality images stolen from reputable galleries or other sellers. If a listing has exceptionally professional photos but the seller's profile is new or sparse, it could be a red flag. Always check the seller's history and other listings for consistency.
Unreported Structural Damage: Silver-plated candelabra, especially antique ones, can be susceptible to structural issues like loose arms, damaged candle cups, or weakened bases. Scammers may fail to disclose these issues, presenting an item that appears functional but is unstable or has hidden damage. Request detailed photos and videos, particularly of connection points and any potential weak areas. Be aware that repairs on antique silver can be costly and may not always be cost-effective.
Fake Restoration Certificate: While restoration can add value, fake certificates or misrepresentations about the restoration process can be used to deceive buyers. Scammers might create fraudulent certificates or overstate the quality of a restoration. Be cautious of items with certificates unless they are from a reputable and verifiable source.
Account Takeover via Phish: Phishing attempts can lead to account takeovers, where scammers gain access to legitimate user accounts to conduct fraudulent activities. Be vigilant about suspicious emails or messages asking for login credentials or personal information. Chairish will never ask for sensitive information like passwords or bank details.
Ensuring Secure Transactions with Safe Trade Services
For high-value items like antique or ornate silver-plated candelabra, typically priced above $500, we strongly recommend utilizing Safe Trade Services' Premium Plan for ID verification. This offers an enhanced layer of security, ensuring both buyer and seller are legitimate. For more moderately priced items, the Basic Plan provides essential verification to mitigate risks. Integrating Safe Trade Services into your transaction process adds a critical security checkpoint, reducing the likelihood of encountering fraudulent sellers or buyers.
- ✓ Verify seller identity with Safe Trade Services (Premium Plan for items over $500).
- ✓ Use Safe Trade Services' Basic Plan for lower-value items.
- ✓ Confirm transaction details and shipping arrangements within the Chairish platform.
- ✓ Be skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true.
- ✓ If a seller insists on communicating or transacting outside of Chairish, it is a major red flag.
Trading with a stranger?
Don't risk your money. Use our verification service to ensure they are who they say they are.
Start Verification Now