At Chairish, we take the integrity of our marketplace seriously. We want you to shop with absolute confidence, knowing that the vintage and antique pieces you love are exactly what they’re represented to be. Our Authenticity Guarantee is designed to protect your purchase and ensure peace of mind.
Eligibility Requirements for Buyers
To be eligible for a refund under the Authenticity Guarantee, a Buyer must meet the following:
- Contact Chairish Support within one year of the item’s delivery date.
- Within one year of the item’s delivery date, you must provide written opinions from two (2) independent and recognized experts in the field. These opinions must clearly substantiate the claim of inauthenticity.
- Note: In limited circumstances, Chairish may, at its sole discretion, waive the requirement for a second opinion based on the credentials or identity of the initial expert provided.
- You must provide any additional documentation reasonably requested by Chairish to help us facilitate a final assessment of the claim.
- The item must be returned in the exact same condition it was in at the time of purchase.
Authenticity Guarantee FAQ
What defines an "independent and recognized expert"? An independent expert is a professional with no personal or financial interest in the item or the transaction. This typically includes:
- Certified appraisers.
- Curators from established museums or galleries.
- Representatives from the original manufacturer.
Does Chairish cover the cost of obtaining expert opinions? No. The cost associated with hiring experts and obtaining written documentation is the responsibility of the Buyer.
What happens if I discover a discrepancy after the one-year mark? To remain eligible for the Authenticity Guarantee, all claims must be initiated within one year of the item’s delivery date.
How do I submit my claim? To start the process, please contact support@chairish.com. Provide your order number, a brief description of the concerns regarding the item's authenticity, and your supporting documentation.
What qualifies as "limited circumstances" for waiving the second expert opinion? Chairish reviews these on a case-by-case basis. Usually, this occurs if the first expert is the leading authority on the designer or if the evidence provided is considered irrefutable by our internal team.
How should I handle shipping for the return? Once a claim is approved, Chairish will provide specific instructions on the return process. It is vital that the item is packed securely, as it must arrive in the same condition it was in at the time of purchase to remain eligible for the guarantee.
What exactly is covered by the claim? If a claim is substantiated and approved, the Buyer will receive a refund for the purchase price of the item, including applicable taxes, shipping costs, and fees.
For Sellers
Chairish relies on our sellers to maintain the highest standards of accuracy. Here are common questions regarding how the Authenticity Guarantee affects your shop.
What is my responsibility as a seller regarding authenticity? You are responsible for the accuracy of your listing, including the brand, maker, and materials. By listing an item, you warrant that you have the right to sell it and that it is authentic as described. If you aren't 100% certain of a maker, please use the "Styled After" Maker field, and represent the item as Attributed or in the Style of the maker in question, rather than a definitive brand or designer name.
What documentation should I keep for my records? While not required for every listing, keeping the following can protect you in the event of a dispute:
- Original receipts or invoices.
- Clear photos of maker’s marks, tags, or signatures.
- Provenance details (where the item was originally acquired, and its history, if known).
- Previous appraisal documents.
Will Chairish curators catch inauthentic items during the review process? Our curation team reviews every listing to ensure it meets our aesthetic and quality standards. However, the ultimate responsibility for authenticity lies with the seller. If our curators suspect an item is not genuine, they may mark your listing as "Incomplete" and request proof of authenticity before it can go live.
What happens if a buyer submits an authenticity claim against one of my items? If a buyer initiates a claim, Chairish will notify you. We will then review the documentation provided by the buyer (including the required expert opinions). You may be asked to provide your own supporting evidence or provenance to help us make a final determination.
If a claim is substantiated, am I responsible for the refund? If an item is found to be inauthentic and the buyer has met all eligibility requirements, the sale will be rescinded. As the seller, you will be responsible for the cost of the return shipping, and the original payout for the item (if already issued) will be debited to your account and withheld from future sales.
What if the item is returned to me in a different condition? The Authenticity Guarantee requires buyers to return the item in the same condition it was in at the time of purchase. If you receive a return that has been damaged or altered, please contact Chairish Support within 48 hours and include photos so we can investigate.
Is my payout held longer because of this guarantee? No. Our standard payout schedule remains the same (typically issued after the 48-hour return window). However, because the Authenticity Guarantee extends for one year, you should maintain records of your authentications for at least 12 months after a sale.