Money & ATM Scams in Chiang Mai

Night Bazaar Gemstone and Jade Overcharging

Vendors in and around the Night Bazaar on Chang Khlan Road sell jade, rubies, and sapphires at prices framed as bargain wholesale rates, but the stones are routinely low-grade, synthetic, or outright fakes. Some stalls employ well-dressed "gem experts" who approach tourists offering to guide them to a reputable dealer — the expert receives a commission on everything sold. Certificates of authenticity provided at the point of sale are not issued by recognised gemological bodies.