Hard times breed hard scams. One making the rounds: the gas-station gold ring. Here’s how it works — and how not to fall for it.
How they scam you
A stranger approaches at a gas station: he must reach another city, has no money for gas — sometimes with a “wife and kid” in the car for effect. He offers his gold ring, stamped 14K or 18K, asking $300; good negotiators get it for $50.
The trick: stamp or not, the ring isn’t gold at all — usually copper, which wears gold’s colour convincingly. Not even plated. Pure fake.
How to protect yourself
- Never buy gold at gas stations, on the street, or anywhere but specialized stores
- Buying from a small jeweller? Check reviews first — make sure it’s legitimate
- Remember the oldest rule: there’s no such thing as a $50 gold ring
Why the stamp means nothing here: scammers stamp copper freely — marks cost nothing to fake. Only testing tells metal from theatre.
Bought something you’re unsure about? Bring it in — we’ll test it honestly and free, whatever the answer.
