Share Info About Fakes

It will happen that someone comes in with fake items – a fake watch, fake coins/bullion, a fake chain, ring, or other piece of jewelry – and it is marked as karat gold, platinum, or silver or it is presented to you as being real, but you determine that it’s not real. When that happens, document as much information as possible about that item and the person selling it and email the other buyers immediately. Include a description of the item and any markings or identifying features (gemstones, damage, etc.) and a detailed physical description of the person attempting to sell it (ethnicity, hair color, eye color, weight/ height, clothing type, tattoos, etc.—be as specific as possible). If possible, try to get a picture of the item.

Email the other buyers right away and when time permits, log the items/pictures into Smart Sheet under the “Suspicious Items” tab. It’s important to do this as soon as possible so that if the person attempts to shop another buy location, there’s already a warning out. If you suspect the person will target another office close to yours, call that buyer right away and make sure they know the details. If there isn’t time to write out a detailed report, send out a brief email to the buyers and alert them as to what to look for and from whom and provide more details/ pictures when time permits.

It would also be helpful to the others to send a warning if you see a lab grown or treated diamond.