I'm sure we all have come across those interesting and stylish pieces of Final Fantasy jewelry and accessories that we just can't seem to pass up. Squall's Ring? Of course! Tidus' Necklace? It's right here! Even "materia" can be been within our grasp; sometimes at some extremely affordable prices. However, there's truth in the old saying, "some deals are just too good to be true," and there's no exception here. Knockoff replica jewelry and accessories are often easily made and sold in masses.

How can I help myself find the real deal? Well there are a few simple things to look out for when considering purchases if you're worried about item authenticity.

1. Packaging
One easy thing to look out for is for the item to have corresponding packaging. Real sets can usually be found on various online store sites that have authentic packaging for reference images; if they don't match up, be wary. Another dead giveaway is if the packaging is for the wrong Final Fantasy in relation to the item. Example: A FF8 necklace in FF10 packaging...doesn't make sense does it?

2. The Seller's Other Items
If you see a deal for a "rare FF7 chrome lighter," first look at the seller's other items. Do they sell many other "rare" lighters or various metal goods with logos stamped into them? Chances are, it's not an authentic item and may be just one of many other products the seller produces massively to sell in many auctions.

3. Quality
Look again for an image of the authentic item on an outside website. Compare the details of the item to the one you're considering bidding on. Are there beads of metal/uneven shaping on the piece? Is the design clearly and accurately cut with care? If you have any misgivings about the way the item looks, go with your gut.

4. Ask Questions
There are a lot of sellers that will not pony up the truth that their merchandise is a knockoff product until after you ask them. That's not to say that they are lying about their product, but they're also not telling you it's real before you bid; omitting the smaller details to avoid turning people away. Sometimes asking the seller if it's official merchandise can nip things in the bud. If they don't respond or respond with an unclear answer, look elsewhere.

5. Materia (could also apply to other odd items)
Materia was never licensed as an official piece of merchandise and can easily be made with a large "cat's eye" marble; available at various bead and rock shops (though there are ones that don't use this formula). They may stick them on bases with plaques or just glue them into a tripod-esque stand. These sellers usually never try to claim their merchandise is official, but offer materia displays in varying levels of quality and detail. Some may come with extra figures and cards. Some may also be part of numbered sets. However, numbered sets don't automatically guarantee quality. Don't let this scare you though, if you don't mind something not being licensed; you can still buy something pretty cool to display! Keep in mind to compare auctions for quality to get your money's worth.

Even with these tips in mind, remember: just because a product isn't licensed, doesn't mean it isn't of decent quality. Knockoff jewelry can serve just as well if you're looking for a cosplay piece or something just for fun for not a lot of cash. Just be a cautious and observant buyer and you should be able to find exactly what you need; licensed or not.