Evidence desk FAQ
The questions people ask before they lose leverage.
Short answers first, with the uncertainty kept visible. No code, chip, receipt, box or single visual feature receives more authority than it deserves.
Can a serial number prove a luxury item is authentic?
No. A number can be copied, altered, misread or moved. It should agree with the item, period and provenance, but it cannot carry the conclusion alone.
Does a receipt prove authenticity?
No. Receipts can be copied, edited or paired with another item. Verify the transaction trail and the object independently.
Does an NFC chip or QR code prove authenticity?
Not by itself. A chip may identify a digital record or product service, but links and identifiers can be cloned. Confirm what the issuer actually promises.
Can PieceID authenticate my item?
No. PieceID organizes evidence and questions. It does not issue a manufacturer certificate or definitive verdict.
Is “unknown” the same as fake?
No. Unknown means the available evidence is insufficient, unclear or outside the guide’s scope.
Which photos should I request?
Request front, back, sides, base, interior, closures, markings, hardware, wear points and a fresh photo that the seller can recreate.
What should I do before paying?
Preserve the listing, verify seller identity and return terms, use protected payment, request missing evidence and escalate high-value uncertainty.
Are boxes, dust bags and cards useful?
They can support a provenance record, but they are portable and copyable. Inspect the product independently.
Can smell prove a bag or fragrance is fake?
No. Materials and liquids change with age and storage. Do not deliberately apply a suspicious fragrance.
Why do details vary on genuine products?
Period, factory, size, material, regional configuration, repair and replacement parts can create legitimate differences.
Should I post a seller’s name in comments?
No. Community notes are public and unverified; do not identify private sellers or post personal/contact information.
When is physical inspection necessary?
When value is high, online evidence conflicts, material or movement testing matters, or you need a decision another party will rely on.