This content was first published on IGR – Italian Gemological Review no. 17 in 2023. The information provided here is therefore current as of the original publication date.
Fraudulent activities involving the sale of gemstones or jewelry accompanied by counterfeit gemological certificates continue to pose a significant challenge for the jewelry industry. Regrettably, many instances go unreported as victims often remain unaware of the fraud, making it challenging to track down the perpetrators. While leading laboratories employ security measures such as micro-print lines, holograms, and online verification databases to authenticate their printed reports, consumers are often unfamiliar with the concept of verifying such documents.
The most recent case came to light on August 18, 2023, when the Gemmological Association of Great Britain (Gem-A) issued a warning about an ongoing scam involving bogus jewelry parcels adorned with fabricated Gem-A credentials and logos. Notably, Gem-A is renowned as an educational institute and does not offer jewelry, grading, or stone identification services. Multiple individuals who contacted Gem-A via e-mail and social media reported the receipt of unexpected packages containing purported “diamond solitaire ring in platinum”. These parcels, housed in pink gift bags bearing the inscription “Princess” in gold, lack essential identifying labels and documentation, prompting recipients to seek assistance from Gem-A. Enclosed within are counterfeit “Identification Certificates” featuring inaccurately spelled labels such as “Fellowship of Gemological Association of Great Britain” (the correct British spelling is “Gemmological”).
These fake certificates also display fake logos from respected organizations including the International Gemological Institute (IGI), International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC), Platinum Guild International, and the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). While initial reports emerged in March 2023, this issue has resurfaced recently.
Gem News published on IGR – Italian Gemological Review #17, Autumn 2023
