Created 2022-09-08 ©goVerify, Inc.
Learn how to spot a fake Gibson Les Paul with this detailed 46 point step-by-step guide by goVerify.
Gibson uses a mother-of-pearl inlay on the Les Paul headstock. Note the perfectly rounded finishing and how flush the inlay is against the headstock. The texture of the mother-of-pearl is very recognisable in that it has a specific shimmer and features a combination of pink, grey and silver reflections.
Make sure both ends of every fret end against a “nib” - a small section of neck binding that sticks up and is attached to the fret - if the guitar is new. Tip: The only reason for a Gibson Les Paul to not feature these nibs is if the guitar has been re-fretted.
The case lock is made from the same metal as the hinges, and is squarely attached to the edge of the case by rivets. Note the position of the case lock. Inside the internal compartment you will find one silver metal key. Note the smooth edges of the key.
The Gibson Les Paul authenticity card, printed on a thick high-quality paper, features the Gibson logo and tagline in 5 different languages. Note the solid printing quality, the Gibson logo typeface and position, and the factory-issued colour photograph of the guitar, printed on glossy photo paper.