Security & Authentication
How we protect your cards and prevent counterfeiting
Our multi-layered security system makes it virtually impossible to create fake GSM slabs. Every card is authenticated before grading, and every slab includes multiple tamper-evident features.
Multi-Layered Security
Eight advanced security features make our slabs virtually impossible to counterfeit
Holographic Security Label
CRITICALMulti-layer hologram that changes appearance when viewed from different angles
Unique Certificate Number
CRITICALEvery slab has a unique identifier that can be verified online
QR Code Verification
CRITICALScan the QR code with any smartphone to instantly verify authenticity
Ultrasonic Welding
CRITICALSlabs are sealed using ultrasonic welding, not glue or screws
UV-Reactive Materials
HIGHSlab materials react to UV light in specific ways to prevent counterfeiting
Micro-Printing
HIGHExtremely small text that requires magnification to read clearly
Tamper-Evident Design
CRITICALMultiple features make it obvious if someone tried to open the slab
Serialized Label Stock
MEDIUMLabel material itself has embedded security features
Slab Specifications
Consistent quality and precise engineering in every slab we produce
Dimensions
4" x 5.75" x 5mm thick
Standard size fits most card storage and display cases
Material
High-clarity UV-resistant acrylic
Prevents yellowing and protects card from UV damage
Card Window
2.5" x 3.5" viewing area
Standard card size with full visibility front and back
Seal Type
Ultrasonic welding at 300+ PSI
Creates permanent tamper-evident bond
Label Placement
Top center with holographic overlay
Easily visible and difficult to counterfeit
Weight
Approximately 28-32 grams
Consistent weight helps identify counterfeits
Corner Design
Rounded edges with 2mm radius
Prevents damage and improves handling
UV Protection
99%+ UV-blocking coating
Prevents card fading over decades
How We Authenticate Cards
Every card undergoes an 8-step authentication process before grading begins
Visual Inspection
Examine the card for obvious signs of counterfeiting or alteration
Paper Quality Analysis
Check paper texture, thickness, and fiber composition
Print Quality Examination
Inspect printing techniques, registration, and color accuracy
Edge & Cut Analysis
Check for trimming, alterations, or uneven edges
UV Light Testing
Use UV light to detect alterations, restoration, or counterfeits
Magnification Review
Examine fine details under 10x-30x magnification
Database Comparison
Compare against known authentic examples in our reference library
Final Verification
Senior authenticator reviews all findings and makes final determination
Verify Any Certificate
Scan the QR code or enter the certificate number to instantly verify authenticity
Scan QR Code
Use your phone camera to scan the QR code on the slab label
Most modern phones can scan QR codes directly from the camera app
Or Enter Certificate Number
Go to gemstatemint.com/verify and enter the certificate number
Certificate number format: GSM-XXXX-XXXXXXXX
Review Certificate Details
Check that card details, photos, and grade match what's in the slab
Pay special attention to player name, year, set, and grade
Verify Certification Date
Make sure the certification date makes sense for when you acquired the card
Suspicious if cert date is after you purchased the card
How to Spot Fake Slabs
Know the warning signs and red flags of counterfeit grading slabs
Mismatched Certificate
Certificate number on slab doesn't match online database
Red Flags:
- ✗QR code doesn't scan or goes to wrong page
- ✗Certificate number format is incorrect
- ✗Online certificate shows different card
- ✗No results when searching certificate number
Poor Label Quality
Label looks printed on regular paper or has low quality
Red Flags:
- ✗Hologram is flat or doesn't change angles
- ✗Colors are dull or off-brand
- ✗Text is blurry or pixelated
- ✗Label edges are uneven or poorly cut
- ✗No UV-reactive features
Slab Construction Issues
Slab appears glued, screwed, or poorly sealed
Red Flags:
- ✗Visible glue residue around edges
- ✗Seams are uneven or gaps present
- ✗Slab feels too light or too heavy
- ✗Corners are sharp instead of rounded
- ✗Can see separation between layers
Wrong Card Inside
Card doesn't match the certificate details
Red Flags:
- ✗Player/character name is different
- ✗Year or set doesn't match
- ✗Grade seems too high for visible condition
- ✗Card has obvious defects not mentioned in notes
- ✗Photos on certificate don't match actual card
Altered or Opened Slab
Evidence that slab was opened and resealed
Red Flags:
- ✗Ultrasonic seal has cracks or gaps
- ✗Label has been removed and reapplied
- ✗Card is loose or moves inside slab
- ✗Dust or debris inside sealed slab
- ✗UV patterns are disrupted or missing
Serial Number Anomalies
Certificate number doesn't follow proper format
Red Flags:
- ✗Wrong prefix (should start with "GSM-")
- ✗Year code doesn't match expected range
- ✗Number is too short or too long
- ✗Uses letters where numbers should be
- ✗Sequential numbers for unrelated cards
Our Commitment to Security
Comprehensive measures to protect collectors and maintain trust
Suspect a Fake Slab?
If you believe you have encountered a counterfeit GSM slab, take these steps immediately:
- 1Do not attempt to open or damage the slab
- 2Take clear photos of the entire slab, label, and QR code
- 3Note where and when you acquired it
- 4Try to verify the certificate number online
- 5Contact our fraud prevention team at security@gemstatemint.com
- 6Provide photos and any documentation you have
- 7We will investigate and work with law enforcement if needed