【San Juan, Pu】US Customs Seizes $3.5 Million in Counterfeit Luxury Jewelry from China – Jewelry and Gem

Editor’s Note

This article details a recent seizure by U.S. Customs and Border Protection of counterfeit jewelry from China, highlighting ongoing efforts to intercept intellectual property theft and protect consumers from fraudulent goods.

Seizure Details

Recently, US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) seized a shipment from China containing counterfeit luxury brand jewelry, which would have been worth $3.5 million if genuine.
The shipment, originally destined for a residence in Guaynabo, Puerto Rico, was intercepted by CBP on February 20. The package contained 660 pieces of jewelry, including rings, bracelets, and necklaces, resembling the “Alhambra” collection of the renowned luxury brand Van Cleef & Arpels.

Official Statement on Risks

Efrain Rivas, Assistant Director of Trade for the CBP San Juan Field Office, stated:

“Purchasing counterfeit luxury jewelry from China may seem like a good deal, but it often fuels illegal activities involving money laundering, forced labor, and even organized crime.”

Rivas pointed out:

“The supply networks for these counterfeit goods exploit workers, evade taxes, undermine legitimate businesses, and simultaneously fund illicit activities such as human trafficking and drug trade. Every purchase supports an underground economy built on deception and exploitation.”

Consumer Advice from CBP

CBP advises consumers to purchase discounted goods directly from trademark holders, original manufacturers, or authorized retailers; understand the market price of genuine products and avoid being lured by cheap deals; avoid shopping on websites that cannot provide customer service contact information, return policies, etc.; and consult CBP’s “E-Commerce Counterfeit Awareness Guide” for more detailed information.

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⏰ Published on: March 12, 2025

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