We all strive for originality. We want to be unique individuals and express this through our behavior, style of clothing and even jewelry. Stunning jewelry from the Pandora brand will help us in this matter. It allows you to create unique bracelets that will reflect your character and mood.
There is only one “but” - the popularity of bracelets and charms has increased to such an extent that fakes began to appear on the market. This is not surprising, because the cost of Pandora products is not small - bracelets from 3 thousand rubles, charms from 1.5 thousand, but there are models for 3-4 thousand rubles. Not everyone can spend that amount on decoration.
But if you are determined to buy an original, or give a gift to a loved one, you need to understand the signs of the authenticity of a Pandora bracelet.
10 signs of a fake
On some forums you can find reviews about buying fake jewelry in the company’s official store - a dubious statement, because the company values its reputation. But fakes still exist.
First, let's look at the main signs of authenticity:
- a crown above the letter “O” on the clasps of most bracelets; there are models on which it does not physically fit;
- factory stamp on the lock: for silver and bicolor charms - “s925 ale; for gold – “g585”; for rose gold – “ale met”;
IMPORTANT! Rose gold items made before 2018 will be marked “ale r”.
- fastening inside the “claw” or “clover” lock consisting of 4 heads, previously there were 2 heads;
IMPORTANT! Inside the original clasp there is a metal insert with a corresponding engraving - due to the softness of silver, the lock can break, which does not happen with durable metal. The fake clasp is made from one type of metal.
- There is an assay office mark.
Next we will look at the distinctive features of a fake.
Weight. Solid metal is used for the bracelets - they are not blown. The exception is the rigid hollow Bangle bracelet.
Material. Pandora only works with precious metals - silver, gold and rose gold. There can be no talk of any stainless steel or simple metal. It’s easy to check - attach a magnet to the product; precious metals are not magnetic.
Package. The original packaging is covered in white leather. On the inside of the lid there is a branded inscription “PANDORA”. On the fake, the letters are several millimeters larger. The crown above the letter "O" appears small.
REFERENCE! They have learned to fake the branded crown, but you can tell it apart. In the original it is graceful and thin, while the fake looks knocked down and dense, with thick lines.
Gold plated items. Pandora makes gold bracelets and charms. If you are offered to buy an inexpensive gold-plated product, it is a fake.
Pure silver. During the manufacturing process, silver undergoes a blackening procedure.This is a kind of Pandora's calling card and confirmation of authenticity. There are also charms with unblackened silver, but you can count them on your fingers. The fakes look shiny, without a hint of blackening.
IMPORTANT! Sometimes people complain about yellowed or blackened silver, and they bought the bracelet in an official store. This is nothing more than a natural reaction of the metal. This can be triggered by contact with chemicals or sweat. Sometimes a reaction occurs due to contact with the skin - after all, we are all different and for some the silver turns yellow, for others it turns black, and for others it remains in its original form.
Glass with flaws. We are talking about Murano glass beads. The company monitors quality and therefore its beads are perfect. If you see chips or scratches inside and outside the bead, this is a clear reason for doubt. A counterfeit is indicated by the turbidity of the stone and inclusions of small debris inside.
On the side of the original bead there is a signature inscription without a crown above the letter “O” - it simply does not fit there.
ADVICE! Identical beads can have different shades and sizes - this happens in different batches. If you want to buy 2 absolutely identical Murano glass beads, buy them in a regular store.
Swarovski stones. Pandora bracelet with Swarovski stones is a fake. As of 2019, these companies do not cooperate.
Form. Fake bracelets do not hold their shape well and resemble an ordinary chain. The original product has a pronounced rounded shape and holds it, but does not lose elasticity, except for the Bangle model.
Pillow in a box. In the packaging of a copy or a fake, the bracelet lies on black foam rubber covered with fabric. In the original version there is a small black pad there.
Bracelet appearance:
- the fake is lighter and shinier than the original. Again because of Pandora's signature blackened silver;
- The distance between the wraps where the charms are screwed is the same for the original. The copy has different things;
- The weave of the fake is not as dense as that of the genuine bracelet.
Sometimes an original bracelet or charm may be defective, but this is not a sign of a fake:
- Damaged charms - chip or scratch, fallen stones.
- The thread on the charms is narrow or wide, making it impossible to screw it onto the bracelet.
The company is responsible for defective products - if you buy a product in an official store, and when you come home you discover a defect, bring it back. In the case of carving, they will change your charm. When damage is discovered, the company will conduct an examination. If she confirms a manufacturing defect and not your fault, the store will refund your money or offer a replacement.