About Authenticity
I’m not a “pro authenticator,” but with years of hands-on Tiffany experience I trust my eye and only sell what I can stand behind. Below is a quick guide to how I think about authenticity – and what not to rely on.
Myths & Facts
Myth 1: A different stamp or font means it’s fake.
Fact: Hallmarks vary by collection and production period; layouts and fonts change over time. Stamp differences alone aren’t decisive.
Myth 2: Paperwork proves authenticity.
Fact: Cards, receipts, and packaging can be forged or swapped. The only paperwork that truly proves authenticity is a Tiffany diamond certificate for stones over 0.18 ct with a certificate number that matches the diamond’s laser inscription (generally for pieces produced after 2004). Paperwork supports – it doesn’t replace proper assessment.
Myth 3: “A boutique salesperson said it’s fake, so it must be fake.”
Fact: Sales associates are trained to sell and service, not to authenticate third party items. Many boutiques don’t offer official authentication at the counter, and individual opinions can be mistaken.
Myth 4: Breaks, loose stones, slightly off-center/ doubled hallmarks, or tarnish = counterfeit.
Fact: Those are usually wear, age, or normal manufacturing tolerance – not automatic proof of a fake. Chains, end links, and settings need periodic checks; cleaning, tightening, or repair typically resolves these issues.
Myth 5: If it isn’t on Tiffany’s website now, it’s fake.
Fact: Many designs are retired, revised, or regional. Availability today isn’t a test of authenticity; evaluate construction, details, and period-correct hallmarks.
Want extra assurance?
- Buy via a third-party platform (e.g., eBay or Poshmark) that offers free authentication on eligible items ($500+).
- Seek a reputable third-party opinion (advisory, not absolute). If you’d like, I can point you to authenticators the community uses.
A real-world note
I once brought a vintage charm to a Tiffany store to solder a loop. The sales associate declined after noticing a slightly misaligned double stamp. I later requested repair through Tiffany’s website and mailed it to New York – where their trained craftsmen inspected and serviced the piece. Sales counters aren’t set up to authenticate; craft and repair teams apply a different standard.
Bottom line
I source carefully and only list pieces I’m confident are authentic. Need close-ups or a condition video? Contact me.