Warning over fake jewellery
TRADING Standards officers have warned shoppers to avoid buying cheap counterfeit jewellery from online auction sites.
The warning came as 9,000 items of fake Tiffany jewellery were melted down at a foundry in Middlesbrough. The necklaces, earrings and bracelets will be recycled.
The jewellery, together with a number of other valuable items such as Chanel handbags and Hermes scarves, were part of a haul seized from two Chinese nationals operating from a property in Thornaby.
Large volumes of counterfeit goods were being sold on a UK-based internet site.
The male and female living at the address and believed to be behind the operation did not answer bail and are believed to have fled back to China.
The investigation involved Stockton Council's Trading Standards and officers from Cleveland Police Financial Crime Unit who froze a number of bank accounts held by the couple and seized other items such as computers, cameras and mobile phones.
David Kitching, Stockton Council's Trading Standards and Licensing manager said: "This type of jewellery is often manufactured from cheap materials.
"In this case it contained high levels of aluminium and zinc which can cause skin problems for wearers who have a sensitivity.
"I would urge consumers to purchase only from reputable traders to avoid any health problems."
Coun Steve Nelson, Stockton Council's cabinet member for housing and community safety, said: "People should be aware that the profit from this type of trade goes straight into the pockets of criminals.
"In addition, the local economy suffers as a result of counterfeit sales - legitimate businesses can be affected by reduced profits, which can result in lower wages, lost jobs and opportunities for future growth."
3:29pm Thursday 27th March 2008
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CommentPosted by: Yemen, Darlington on 4:20pm Thu 27 Mar 08
unles they start counterfeiting clown pendants,hoop earings the size of a bin lid, Elizabeth Duke chains and chatty rings this wont affect anyone on teeside.
unles they start counterfeiting clown pendants,hoop earings the size of a bin lid, Elizabeth Duke chains and chatty rings this wont affect anyone on teeside.
Posted by: Claire, Darlington on 8:04pm Thu 27 Mar 08
Hilarious Yemen but please, you have described half of Darlington there!!
Hilarious Yemen but please, you have described half of Darlington there!!
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