Engraved 'lalique': how scammers are targeting antiques buyers

The allure of a vintage Lalique vase, a symbol of French luxury glassmaking, proved too tempting for one seller – and a costly lesson for a discerning buyer. Kayleigh Davies, an antiques valuer at Auctionet, recently uncovered a brazen forgery: a perfectly respectable vase bearing an amateurishly etched “Lalique” on its base, a desperate attempt to inflate its value. The incident underscores a growing problem in the online antiques market – the increasing sophistication of fraudsters exploiting a wider audience through internet sales.

The rise of online forgery

While scams involving antiques and collectibles are as old as the items themselves, the internet has provided a fertile ground for deception. Davies recounts a common tactic: sellers deceptively presenting items as being in “perfect condition,” only to reveal minor, yet impactful, flaws upon closer inspection. A hairline crack meticulously restored, or a Dinky Toys car repainted in a rare color after having been tampered with, are just a few examples of the cunning ways collectors attempt to mislead buyers. The potential for profit fuels these schemes, particularly with high-value items like Star Wars action figures in their original packaging, which can command thousands of pounds.

But it's not just about blatant fakes. Davies highlights the subtler manipulations. “If something doesn’t look right, ask a question,” she advises. “If it’s a fake, the seller will probably double down and won’t want to give you any more information.” A genuine antique, like an aged drinking glass, will typically bear the marks of time – scuffs on the bottom from years of use. A reluctance to address such details raises immediate red flags.

Proceed with caution: electricals and autographs

The risks extend beyond obvious forgeries. Davies strongly cautions potential buyers to exercise extreme caution when purchasing electrical antiques, such as lamps, noting the potential for faulty or aged wiring to pose a fire hazard. The consequences of overlooking such details can be far more serious than a financial loss.

Furthermore, the world of autographs is fraught with peril. “If somebody just has a single autograph, and they don’t know where it came from, don’t touch it,” Davies warns. Provenance—the documented history of ownership—is paramount. For modern autographs, a video of the person signing the item offers a crucial layer of authentication.

Protecting yourself and reporting fraud

Fortunately, buyers are not entirely defenseless. Platforms like eBay have policies prohibiting the sale of counterfeit goods and offer money-back guarantees for items that don’t match their descriptions. Citizens Advice outlines the legal right to a refund for fake purchases. Should a seller refuse to cooperate, consumers can initiate a chargeback through their bank, particularly if paying by debit or credit card.

The Langstaff Ledger’s investigations reveal that reporting these incidents is critical. Individuals suspecting fraud should report it to Report Fraud, the national reporting center. Additionally, notifying Trading Standards, through Citizens Advice, can help prevent further instances of deception. The fight against online antiques fraud requires diligent buyers and proactive reporting to safeguard the integrity of the market and protect collectors from exploitation.