How to identify fake gem certificates in Kandy.
A shop showed us a shiny certificate for a sapphire. How do we know it is real.
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1 Answer from travellers
Fake certificates printed by the shop themselves are incredibly common and completely worthless. A genuine authenticity document must be issued by the independent National Gem and Jewellery Authority of Sri Lanka or an internationally recognized laboratory like GIA. It will feature strict security holograms, detailed microscopic analysis of the stone, and an official verification number that you can often check online. If the shop refuses to let you take the stone to an independent assayer, walk away immediately.
Scam Watch: kandy
TukTuk or tour drivers take you to "gem museums" or "government-certified" gem shops. They receive huge commissions (up to 40%) on anything you buy. Prices are inflated 3-10x the actual value.
Men approach tourists near Temple of the Tooth offering to be guides. After the tour, they demand large "donations" or guide fees (5000-10000 LKR).
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