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Authentication Service We know, more than most, how frustrating it can be seeing unscrupulous vendors claiming authentic goods when they are clearly fakes but there are ways we can protect ourselves (and our money!) from these charlatans when all we want to do is purchase a genuine product at a fair price. In our role of authentication specialist, we view some of worlds most sophisticated counterfeit items ever made. These items, most everyday consumers never get exposed to, but due to the counterfeit market opening up and the ease of obtaining such materials and new countries entering into this lucrative arena, we ask that you please be vigilant in the current climate. We are aware that these items are filtering through to the general domain. It is no secret that Delortae Agency is committed to brand designers copyright and trademark proctection. You will not see pictures how authentic items should look here, as we believe this information could be used by counterfeiters to produce even more sophisticated products and deceive buyers further. But, if like many of our regular clients, you like only to purchase authentic merchandize then Delortae Agency ensure from us, that is exactly what you will receive we guarantee that 100% all our original products are verified by us with genuine paperwork to substantiate this. Our pre owned items are also verified by us prior to resale. Let's explore some misconceptions and see if we can help inform, from the wealth of information available, what is truly fact and what is fiction. One of the most commonly asked questions we receive is questions on Chanel hologram authentication stickers. Firstly, no one inside the house of Chanel ever call them authentication stickers because frankly they are not! They are in fact SERIAL NUMBER STICKERS used purely for stock control purposes. Which originated some time ago, the exact year is as yet unknown. Sometime, we believe, around the late 70's to mid late 80's it's implementation to prevent stock being stolen from the factory, Chanel now had a way of tracking them. It is not for authentication. If you have an authentic Chanel, that is exactly what it is, with or without a hologram sticker, if your bag is authentic and the sticker comes off it still remains authentic! Chanel:If you were to ask CHANEL about the serial number sticker, they will probably say,"it is not SERIAL" . Chanel store boutique attendants usually say that the sticker is the control number for CHANEL. And they may also say, not all Chanel bags have control numbers. Hence, vintage Chanel bags, bags with new linings (having been repaired), unusual bags in design sometimes have no serial number stickers. On selected pieces, where they feel there may be no appropriate position to place a serial number sticker, simply won't have one. If you take the bag to Chanel and ask them for replacement lining for instance, they will remove the original lining with serial number sticker and put a new lining often with no serial number sticker. In these circumstances, there is no need to track it, it is already in your possession. Also, they may give you the old lining with serial number sticker or perhaps repostition it on the replacement lining. BUT, if you buy PRE-OWNED and vintage bags, sometimes the previous owner has lost the old lining and the bag may no longer have the serial number sticker inside the bag or maybe there never was one. CHANEL rarely judge the authenticity in boutique (this does vary from area to area and central London we found, have always been extremely helpful). This does vary with boutiques, try the concessions in large department stores, they sometimes are more obliging. They usually always judge the authenticity at the CHANEL REPAIR FACTORY. If the bag is fake, they will say, "this is not the product by CHANEL, so we can't accept repairing" They will repair the bags with no serial number stickers if the bag is authentic. In fact, many French women in France, actually remove the hologram serial number stickers once they purchase their CHANEL items at the boutique, many know that the serial number is not for authentication, it's helpful but not essential. So please do not judge the authenticity only with the serial number stickers. Watch for the font detail colour, Chanel like to colour match if the hardware is silver so will the interior font colour be likewise if the hardware is gold, gold colour font. These days counterfeiters are aware many buyers use this mistake to authenticate an item and produce bags which have fake serial number stickers and fake matching serial cards. So it is too dangerous to judge the authenticity only with the stickers. Or, come to that, the Serial Number Cards. Chanel Number Serial Cards: The numbered code gives you a general idea when the bag was made. Each code will have either 7 or 8 digits. The earlier Chanel bags have 7-digit serial numbers starting with 0, such as 0123456. As more bags were produced, the number gradually increased, so that a few years later, the number started with a 1. Once the number went beyond 9999999, the number became 8 digits long because 10 has two digits. From 2008, they started issuing bags starting with 12. Along with the number change so did some of the identifying features on both the style and design of lettering of the cards and also hologram stock control stickers. Hermes: You would do well to gem up on Hermes, if this is your chosen bag of choice, authenticate your Hermes bag well before strolling into a Hermes boutique. Not only will they refuse to authenticate your bag they will refuse you service and fake bag carriers have been known to be chased, rather unceremoniously, out the store! We see a great many counterfeit Hermes, but very few done well. There is not a six year waiting list for these visions of beauty without good reason. They are hand crafted using the finest skins available. Alligator from Florida, buffalo from Pakistan, crocodile from Australia, lizards from Malaysia, sharks from Thailand, oxen, deer, calf and goats from all over the world. We are not sure if it is the craftsmanship that takes the most time or catching the source material. Counterfeiters are as cheap and tatty as the materials they use. As experts we see some of the more sophisticated counterfeit items. Few will use quality material, but most will not, as these items are factory mass produced and maximum profit being the most important factor. Unfortunately, these suppliers are now including blank copies of original design house receipts into the sale. Fake Hermes are usually always mass factory produced, having said that we are aware of manufacturers claiming 99.9% copies, but most never have the correct finish.The blind stamp under the strap is usually the first thing you should check. %

(watch this abc 5 min news tape) {Had they all been drinking?; leave a comment } Just had to add how the professionals do it! HERMES use the alphabet in chronological order to date their bag. For example, year 2004 was H and currently we are on year I. The craftsman ID should also be next to the blind stamp. Having said that, the more sophisticated counterfeit Hermes will have these, but their font detail will always let the down. Hermes zipper on the inside pocket is never going to be replicated to fool the expert. Hermes have several subtle differences to their zipper and the zipper pull, too hard to describe but we will try to show you through pictures, when we have the time. The leather pull strip should be horizontal to the zipper, which should have Hermes 'cleanly' engraved on it. The borders and corners give the counterfeiters a major problem also. Authentic Hermes stand proud and erect due not only to the precision cut of the skin used but also the quality, fake Hermes never sit at the correct height or angle. The keys and lock should have matching numbers and Hermes engraved on them. The engraving will be fine and the padlock showing the key fit is very distinctive. The trademark three lines, engraved on the padlocks themselves, we have never seen done well. The hardware should be made of palladium or 24 carat gold plate, the counterfeit are made of low grade steel and the engraving will be rough and unfinished in appearance. The linings are also something to watch for and the colour of the stiching. Hermes use colour stiching uniformity that other design houses do not. Lastly, check the feet on the bottom of the bag, an authentic bag will have solid and sturdy stud attachments (to protect the bag base when set down), where appropriate. Watch for the font detail colour, HERMES like to colour match also if the hardware is silver so will the interior font colour be likewise if the hardware is gold, gold colour font. Like Chanel, Hermes no longer authenticates bags in it's boutiques they also will authenticate at the HERMES REPAIR FACTORY, so if you want your Hermes authenticated take it along for a repair but be prepared for a long wait! Louis Vuitton: LV authentication, better off heading for main boutique, Yes, some designers do have factory outlets and some sell at wholesale. The world's most favoured designer to replicate (and definitely one of ours, in particular LV North Carolina USA who recommended a client to us for authentication, thank you), Louis Vuitton, is not one of them. By this we mean to sell at retail, they do not sell floor models at discounted prices. They only take returns within 14 days if they are in pristine, unused condition and sell them at FULL PRICE. They destroy merchandise that is unusable or unsold once that season is over. Typically, this merchandise ends up sold to the staff, who do not receive LV discounts, at a reduced price. That holds true for most top design houses that don't use the services of Authorized Resellers or through their own outlets. Louis Vuitton, do still helpfully, authenticate in store, but never confirm in writing. Usually this will be done by the boutique manager, so do not be surprised if the assistant disappears with your item for awhile. Also, don't be surprised if authenticating in France, not to get it back! Also, for Louis Vuitton in particular, things to look out for would be if there is a round white tag hanging from the item, and should it even be there? Louis Vuitton does not add these to their products. Is there an ink-stamped number on the hang tag or a swatch of fabric hanging from the bag and/or white tissue and tape wrapped around the hardware, handles or around the zipper pull?, all sure indicators of fakes. We take this opportunity to thank the Counterfeit, Trademark Infringement and Copyright Specialist at all the major design houses for their kind co operation in working with us on their brand items submitted for further verification. A word from the Authentication Team... As many of you are aware, Delortae Agency work very endeavour to work closely with all the major brand designers Counterfeit, Copyright & Trademark Infringement Specialists. We wanted you to know what happens when major brand designers within our progressive alliance target sites that we have on our Counterfeit Alert List. Just click the link below and see what action Chanel & Louis Vuitton took recently to a website that had been on our list for several years! This is an external link See our basic Quick Guide To Spot A Fake below for more information or Contact Us for a more detailed report on all the designers and how to authenticate their products . Counterfeiters will fake the Louis Vuitton card, serial number, box, bag, padlock, key, security line, font detal and receipt! Fraud is indefensible so please always shop wisely, an opportunity to buy a bargain should not be a reason to lose your senses! | |
| Authentication Service Delortae Agency is the UK's leading authority for designer authentication and appraisal services. We have established our reputation for gaining results for our clients, through our commitment to employing professional, experienced top-level personnel dedicated to their individual renowned area of expertise. Being internationally accredited Appraisal and Authentication Specialists our services are recognizable and respected worldwide. We seek to provide an objective analysis to assist our clients on making informed authentic purchase decisions. As experts, Delortae Agency provides different levels of Authentication Services to fit your needs. Our expertise is dedicated to providing authentication, appraisal and consulting services. Our services are recognised, respected and supported by all reputable High End Boutiques, Insurance Companies, Small Claims Court, Credit Card Companies, Police, Trading Standards, Office Of Fair Trading, Custom & Excise, respected Auction Houses and all official, legal & government bodies worldwide. Delortae Agency, aim to dispel much of the intrigue surrounding this specialized professional service. Here we answer some of the more common questions on the subject we receive;
Q:WHY WOULD I NEED A NON-AUTHENTICATION STATEMENT ANYWAY? If you need help verifying your items are genuine or require authentication for any purpose we can help. Perhaps, you need a written statement of non-authentication for a PayPal dispute. Or your credit card company has asked in order to provide a reimbursement. You can be sure your claim is in safe hands. Q: WHO PREPARES THE STATEMENTS? Our distinguished, esteemed panel of professionally renowned in- house Senior Insurance Appraisal Experts , are made up of eminent former employees of top design houses and have numerous qualifications in their field. Their expertise inspecting such items is often called upon by other professional and law enforcement agencies for expert witness testimonies. Q: HOW ARE THEY PREPARED? They examine each feature and closely scrutinize each and every individual detail. It is their carefully considered professional collective opinion on close examination and based on their extensive experience and knowledge of such items that form the foundation of the statements. Our reports are prepared with the precision that the industry demands with all major design houses included. They can call on colleagues around the world for further verification. Q: CAN IT BE DONE CHEAPER? Simply, yes! by others. Our business was founded on recommendations and referral business only. We are renowned for a professional, friendly and efficient service. We do not claim to be the cheapest, as our fees include upto 72 hours free help and advice included from our Legal Department. The time and resources our professionals put into determine accuracy on each and every file they receive is in depth and time consuming. They are on staff and we believe, as do many others within the industry, to have access to the very best possible available resource. We believe our clients deserve the best and will not compromise on quality. We are also aware, that sometimes, hiring the best does not always come cheap! Happily, so do many of our satisfied clients. See their advice and genuine comments to others in their position and on our service. We cannot guarantee to lower our competitive fees in the future but we can guarantee never to lower the quality of our service! Appraisals, Certificates Of Authenticity, and Statements Of Condition are also available. (Prices on application). IS THERE ANYWHERE IN THE UK THAT OFFERS WRITTEN AUTHENTICATION ON FAKE ITEMS BOUGHT ON EBAY? If you are fortunate enough to live near a boutique, they may sometimes authenticate your item(s) for free, however, it will typically not put its findings in writing, for corporate policy. This is primarily because people were switching authentic items for fake ones and using their letter as proof of authenticity. If you do not live near a retailer or want a written opinion regarding authenticity, we can still help.
We can check eBay and other auction sites, other web sites and your personal photos. Has eBay or other auction site ended your auction and you need proof that your item is authentic? We can help.
Authentications may be done with detailed photographs or by sending the item to us via a method that will track receipt. Insurance is highly recommended as is Signed Delivery. Sometimes the same method may be used for appraisals. Some items we may recommend be delivered to us for personal inspection, as photos alone are often insufficient. Should this be the case we will inform you. We offer both a Photo Opinion Service and Photo OnLine Authentication service, simply email us detailed photographs of your item and we will give our opinion on it's authenticity. There is a nominal pre paid charge for this service as detailed below. We have the highest success rate at removing active counterfeit listings on Auction sites of any other company, around the world. With days of this month still remaining we have already succeeded in having fraudulent listings removed whilst still active. One of the recent listing claimed falsely, to a bidder, that we had authenticated the item and the second one was at a whopping £365 and still rising when we posted our findings on our Forum. The bidder informed the seller of our opinion and our Forum page address and the auction site, faced with such compellng evidence had no choice other than remove the listing! Counterfeiters beware you have no where to hide! Remember, verify our authenticated items with the seller with the unique reference number our Authentication Department will have generated. WE AUTHENTICATE ANY DESIGNER ITEM See our recent Photo Opinions below 
*WARNING: based on the increased amount of Non Authenticity Statements due to 'bait & switch'-where authentic pictures are posted on on-line auction sites and then counterfeits received - be aware! ATTENTION UK BUYERS *PayPal Protection Services Department UK, will not accept photo authentication for refunds, we will collect items anywhere within the M25 to comply with physical inspection only policy Auction Photo Opinion Service This service is available for active listings only. In order to give you the best possible service if your enquiry is for auction purposes, state 'Auction' clearly also the date and time bidding will close on item, when completing the Contact Us form or paying via PayPal insert the information in the notes/message Instructions To Merchant section of PayPal payment confirmation area. Fee for this service is £9.50, shown as £5 plus £4.50 P&P on your PayPal invoice, far less than engaging our professional services if your purchase is indeed deemed counterfeit on receipt. The fees on all services are non refundable. We believe a little spent now, can save a great deal later! PRE PURCHASE
{Instructions} In provided box BELOW type in the auction number of item; Click 'PayNow' Logo; ON PAYPAL SCREEN Type "AUCTION" in 'Description' also the auction site name and item description; in 'Unit Price' type £5.00, in message section of payment confirmation payment page, 'Instructions To Merchant' type both date and time auction ends. The £4.50 surchage is charged by PayPal and shows as P&P Although all enquiries are important to us, the Non-Authenticity Statements will take priority. They are usually subject to strict time restraints imposed by the companies requiring the information. We are duty bound to honour and meet their requirements where ever possible. Contact Us for a free What To Do: I Bought A Fake Off eBay Guide. POST PURCHASE Photo OnLine Opinion Service Perhaps, you have received an item as a result of an auction transaction, bought an item yourself or received as a gift and would like to confirm it's authenticity, without the added expense of a more formal written statement. Then our Photo OnLine Opinion Service for non official purposes, may be what you are looking for. Simply, upload your photos to us via email The pictures will be shown to our experienced panel of Senior Insurance Appraisers. They all have to be of the same opinion and reach a joint decision on authenticity before making a conclusive determination to which they are all in agreement. Discounts available if you have more than one item for authentication. There is a small additional £4.50 surcharge fee on PayPal payments only, shown as P&P on your PayPal invoice. Non Authentication statements required within a three day time span incur additional £10 emergency fee. {Other acceptable payment methods accepted cheque, postal order, direct bank transfer, direct payment to Agent} {Instructions} Click 'BuyNow' Logo; after you have selected from the 'drop down' menu option the choice of service you require}. {click on Option box activates drop down menu simply click on the service required, price adjusted on checkout} PRICE ADJUSTED AT PAYPAL CHECKOUT INVOICE Contact Us for Photo Opinion and Authentication Services assistance. 
*Please note any Authenticity Statements required within five working days will require payment via Direct Bank Transfer Service Fees Payable All Brand On Line Photo Opinion Opinion Only (excl. Chanel/Hermes) £48.75 Louis Vuitton Trunk Photo Opinion Authentication £95 Chanel Photo Opinion Authentication £53 Hermes Photo Opinion Authentication £59 (*See#2a below) In-Person Inspections (*See#2 below)
In-Person Inspection (except Hermes) £75 In-Person Hermes Inspection £105 Certificate of Authenticity Certificate of Authenticity (except Hermes) £175 Certificate of Authenticity- Hermes £218
Item 2: Written Statements of Non-Authenticity are listed below.
FEES FOR WRITTEN STATEMENT 1. Items delivered to Delortae and in-person authentications that do not require a written statement are £42, plus the cost of return delivery. 2. If you need a Written Certificate of Non-Authenticity, an additional £46 fee is required. You may also upgrade to a Certificate of Authenticity. On all written statements the relevant Photo Authentication fee is payable on Photo Authentication Confirmation. *2a. When accompanied with a Statement of Non-Authenticity, prices for Photo Authentication are as follows; All Brand Photo Authentication - Official Statement £61 (excl. Chanel/Hermes) Louis Vuitton Trunk Photo Authentication £99.50 Chanel Photo Authentication £67.50 Hermes Photo Authentication £79.50 3. Official authentications will be in writing, which may be submitted to eBay, PayPal, insurance claims adjusters, insurance companies, credit card companies, Small Claims Courts, police departments, and other official agencies. If your letter is for Small Claims Court, add £32 to have it notarized. If more than one Online authentication is required, please Contact Us for reduced fees and further details. Where personal inspection is required as a precondition in order to secure reimbursement, this is quickly and easily arranged for your convenience. If you require personal inspection email Authentication@delortaeagency.co.uk to arrange our Collection & Return Service. Or arrange a visit from one of our insured fully qualified Appraisers. All payment of fees are payable prior to the service commencing. On the issuing of a statement, opinion or advice, fees are non refundable. Working, alongside us, we also liaise with other reputable renowned specialist in their field and recognized in their particular area of expertise, as well as the Brand Design Houses. If it's worth investing your money then it is advisable to invest in the authenticity of your purchase and if you are in any doubt we strongly recommend that you do. DISCLAIMER {Whilst every effort is undertaken to determine authenticity and issue a true an accurate opinion, where picture quality is poor or unauthorized alterations or repairs have been undertaken on authentic items thereby the manufacturers would subsequently invalidate authenticity and so render 'non authentic' we would uphold these findings. Although, everything possible is done to ensure the opinions rendered are deemed accurate, there is always a small margin for error. Delortae Agency or any group company there-upon, cannot be held responsible for any loss or otherwise resulting from an opinion rendered, any opinion that is inconclusive is not refundable, fee is for appraisers time not based on outcome}. | | Appraisal Service Delortae Agency, as the UK's leading authority for designer authentication and appraisal services, offer clients a full and comprehensive appraisal service to match your needs. If you would like your items appraised for insurance or simply re sale we can help. PROTECT YOUR IMAGES If you would like to resell your authentic item privately or via an auction site we offer our FREE Photo Watermark Service for your submitted photographs. This will show potential buyers that your item has not only been viewed by us by the fact we watermark your photos, it will ensure you get the best possible price for your authentic item as it has been verified. Your image will be double protected. Delortae Agency details run unobtrusively along the bottom with our logo embedded discreetly throughout, in the background. The photo image is then placed on our website for double verification. We are the only designer authentication company to offer this exclusive free service to its clients. Please note all authentic items are available for this service. Chanel bag pictured for demonstration purposes. On all items authenticated by us, we also create a unique individual reference number where interested parties can verify the identity with us FREE OF CHARGE. Along with this service we can also combine or offer singularly, our additional service of Covert and Overt Tagging, the only designer authentication company to this also. We are the only designer appraisal company to offer clients both Covert and Overt Tagging and free Photo Image Protection for authentic item resale. Delortae Agency, aim to dispel the mystery that surround the appraisal reports, and below we answer some of the more commonplace questions we receive; Q: WHAT IS AN APPRAISAL? An appraisal is a professional appraiser's opinion of value. Q: WHY ARE THEY IMPORTANT? An appraisal is a vital valuation tool used by buyers, sellers, insurance companies, credit card companies all official and un official bodies or individuals who need to verify an items worth for prospective financing. Q: HOW DO YOU BENEFIT? A professional appraiser has no vested interest in the outcome of the appraisal and should render services with independence, objectivity and unbiased impartiality. Depending upon their qualifications and designations, appraisers can and do provide a variety of services, as we do, including advice in assisting private collectors, tax assessment review and expert witness testimony. Value appreciation of a specific authentic item must be determined on an individualized basis, factoring in data on comparable items and other relevant considerations. The role of the appraiser is to provide objective, impartial and unbiased opinions about the value of authentic property - providing assistance to those who own, manage, sell, invest in and/or lend money on the security of authentic property. Q: HOW DO YOU DETERMINE AN ITEMS VALUE? Appraisers make a detailed analysis of all factors pertaining to the value of an authentic item. An items value is determined by a number of factors, including its condition, size, rarity, age, retail value of item, current trend, popularity, whether the item has original receipts, dust bags, if relevant authenticity cards & markings, original accessories and original boxes all affect it's market value. Along with what current recent sale prices of comparable items in the subject market. Q: WHAT IS MARKET VALUE? Market value is based on what a willing buyer would likely pay a willing seller for a particular item. Insurance appraisal look at replacement value for the item in the current market climate. Q: WHY WOULD I NEED ONE? If you have such an item and wanted to secure your propety against theft, indemnity insurance, or want to prove for resale your items have been appraised by a professional body increasing it's resale value, in addition to authentic Photo Watermarking we offer both both Covert and Overt Tagging. Covert Level: D.N.A Tagging
Covert TaggingOnce an item passes our Panel Examination and is deemed genuine, the item can be marked with invisible ink which contains a synthetic DNA sequence combination specific to our Authentication Code. Our DNA code is certified and registered with the manufacturer and is never produced again for any other entity, ensuring positive identification and authentication capabilities. The chances of replicating this exact sequence is 1 in 33 trillion. The DNA tag can be detected in a lab and also with a proprietary infrared laser. In fact, by using the laser, the invisible DNA ink will glow RED. This service is popular with eBay and other auction site sellers who want to reduce the risk of fraudulent returns. Additional £10 charge for DNA tagging. Overt Level: Hologram Tagging 
Overt Tagging Our Hologram Stickers with matching serial numbers for the item authenticated and your letter of authentication are offered in oval shape (.75 inch wide x .375 inch high). All of our Hologram Stickers with matching serial numbers are tamper evident. If removed, the hologram image will self destruct. In addition, the label is non-destructive and does not harm your valuable item. Additional £20 charge for Hologram Tagging. Authenticity: Statement of Authenticity Certified Letter of Authenticity: All items that passes our examination with the paid service will receive a Letter of opinion "Letter of Authentication" at NO additional charge. The bottom of the Letter of opinion "Authentication" features a light red "PROTECTED" logo printed in heat reactive ink technology - just rub the logo with your finger or apply other heat source and watch it temporarily disappear. This feature adds a second level of defence over the AuthentiGuard - Hidden Image Background - as the disappearing act of the logo {click above on close up logo} CANNOT be reproduced by anyone.
When an original document printed on AuthentiGuard® DeterXTM paper is copied or scanned, the resulting page shows a robust warning message, clearly indicating that it is a copy. DeterXTM contains the latest generation AuthentiGuard® void pantograph technology, making it the most effective copy warning paper on the market today. DeterXTM works on colour copiers, black & white copiers and desktop scanners. |  Original Document |  Copy |  Scan |
- Location of authentication and dimensions are given.
- Authentication and DNA date.
- Current owner.
- Full name and signature by the authenticator's.
- Six digit alphanumeric DNA serial number that matches the tamper evident label.
- the tamper evident label is discreetly placed.
- A high resolution photo of your exact submission.
Q: HOW ARE THEY PREPARED? The preparation of an appraisal involves research into appropriate market areas; the assembly and analysis information pertinent to an item; and the the knowledge, experience and professional judgement of the Appraisal Panel. All constitutes the elements of a correctly prepared appraisal. Q: HOW DO I RECEIVE ONE? Most appraisals are reported in writing, although in certain circumstances, an appraiser may provide an oral appraisal. A written appraisal report generally consists of a description of the item, it's current owner, an analysis of sales of comparable items and information regarding new or pre owned current activity and/or market trends. The value indicated by recent sales of comparable items and the current cost of replacement. Q: HOW COMPLICATED IS IT? All appraisal services can be quickly, easily and conveniently arranged please Contact Us for FREE Photo Watermark Service or any additional associated charges and further details. Where personal inspection is required an qualified insured appraiser can visit you in your own home. PLEASE NOTE: This format is typically not used for Statements of Non-Authenticity. If you were to request this format it would be at an additional charge to that previously quoted in the Authentication Section. You Can Expect From The Delortae Agency Our Complete Professional Care And Attention Both Your Satisfaction And Our Reputation Are Extremely Important To Us **DUE TO THE HIGH VOLUME OF EMAILS RECEIVED OUR SERVER OPERATES A FILTER SYSTEM, IF YOU HAVE NOT RECEIVED A RESPONSE WITHIN 48 HOURS PLEASE EMAIL THANK YOU **  | | Quick Guide To Spot A Fake Determining the authenticity on any product can be a little tricky, but if you know the basics, you will be able to spot a fake in just a few minutes if you follow these few basic tips outlined below.
One of the best ways to ensure your new handbag is authentic is to look at the bag itself. Designer handbags are popular and cost as much as they due because first and foremost they are made from quality materials. Take a good look at the stitching. There should be no loose or missing stitches, the colour of the thread should match the main colour of the bag and the stitches should be evenly spaced. If the handbag is leather, the logo should be engraved or heat-stamped, not just printed on the leather. Sometime ago, the house of Chanel, became the victims of some of the most detailed replica's the industry had ever seen. The Chanel classic flap bag. These bags were even made out of genuine lambskin and flooded the market. So please be cautious. Chanel took steps immediately but of course could not remove all of these bags and even today are still in circulation. Take a good look at the hardware. All of the hardware should match in colour and sheen. The hardware should also be free of scratches. Many manufacturers, including Gucci, Fendi and Prada, protect their hardware with a removable plastic cover that is to be removed only after it has been purchased. The brand name or logo should be engraved, not embossed or simply printed on the hardware. You can also find the brand name or logo engraved on the strap hardware on Gucci, Fendi, Prada, Chanel and others.
Inspect the material of the bag; lining, hardware and accents are made of. Many handbags are made of different types of leather, from Lambskin, Calfskin, Goatskin and Patent Leather, but it is easy to distinguish if the leather is of a good quality or not. The lining is usually made of a satin material, when not suede, that has a nice shine to it and most luxury designer handbags have the name brand name or logo on the lining. Designers almost always use leather accents, not plastic. Some handbags have straps that are specially coated and seem to be artificial. However, a quick look at the edge of the strap, usually near a stitched joint, should reveal a leather core.
Is there an authentication card? An authentication card is a little card that usually has the manufacturers logo embossed on the front and has some information about the product you purchased and sometimes includes a magnetic strip, bar code. Many manufacturers, including Gucci, Prada, Fendi, Chanel and Coach, use these type of cards for authentication. NOTE: Gucci do NOT use a black, plastic, credit card style authentication card. When you see one of those with a Gucci, it is almost certainly a fake. Also Louis Vuitton do not use those ugly yellow 'authenticity' cards, popular with counterfeiters!
See also our FAQ ARE YOUR GOODS AUTHENTIC?
Check for a serial numbers where possible. It must be said that not all manufacturers use serial numbers, but many do. The serial number for a Fendi purse for example, can be found quite easily on the inside pocket. Simply turn the pocket inside out and there will be a printed number on the fabric or sometimes possibly on the leather tag. Another good example would be Gucci which includes a small leather tag on the zipper seam of the handbag which includes a serial number. In most cases Louis Vuitton will use a date code stamp, for them to identify place and date of manufacture (except for vintage) this knowledge will help you determine if the date the seller claims to have bought the bag matches this information!
Remember shop wisely, always think with your head and not your heart (when shopping for authentic luxury merchandize is something you cannot afford to do) and inspect the bag carefully, you will be able to spot a fake even from a distance 




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