Stone Island Real vs. Fake Guide 2024: How To Tell Original From Fake?

How About Stone Island?

Stone Island is an Italian luxury fashion house specialised in men's apparel, outerwear, and accessories headquartered in Ravarino, Emilia-Romagna. Its core branding includes a nautical star and compass, both of which is printed or overlaid atop a button-on cloth badge with green, yellow, and black detailing.

Stone Island was launched in 1982, but its roots can be traced back more than a century in the Rivetti family which has been involved in clothing manufacture since the mid-19th century. Since its founding, the Italian fashion label has pushed the envelope regarding form, style, and functionality. The era's football casuals were fond of Stone Island's stunning, immaculately designed, and hyper-technical gear, keeping them warm on the terraces and dry on the walk back to the railway station.

With the blend of luxury fashion and streetwear at its peak, Stone Island as a brand is now the epitome of mens luxury casual wear. Although it was never intended to entice the younger generation, the brand is certainly now extremely prevalent among the male 18-24 demographic. This is likely due to the increase in popularity of logo-driven apparel, which the iconic Stone Island badge lends itself to hugely. 

Recent years have seen Stone Island, become an iconic global brand, and expand into the US and claim its hard-earned streetwear kudos through collaborations with Supreme and Nike, reaffirming that Stone Island's significance in terms of groundbreaking fashion design cannot be overstated.

Stone Island Official Price Range: $120 -$6,405

Where to Buy Authentic Stone Island?

The Stone Island items are available in Stone Island  boutiques worldwide and online.  And you can also get Stone Island products on some online websites! Sign up at Extrabux.com, you can get up to 10% cash back on any Stone Island item purchase at these below sites！

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Unfortunately as the Stone Island  brand has grown in popularity, the rise in counterfeit products being replicated has also increased. So if you’re on the market for a new Stone Island piece, particularly if you’re buying from a peer to peer site such as Depop, here’s how to distinguish the real deal from the fakes!

How To Spot Real Stone Island？

1.The Materials Quality 

This method consists of checking the general aspect of the piece, carefully analysing each detail.  A fake Stone Island clothing can also be recognized by its very poor quality finishes. Stone Island products have a very specific stitching. 

Add to this the quality of the textile which will give you a real indication of the conformity of the product. Last but not least, you should also check the ribbed edges.

 Authentic:

• Innovative Textiles: Stone Island is known for its pioneering use of fabrics. The materials should feel substantial and unique, often with distinctive textures or treatments.

• Quality Construction: Seams and stitching on authentic Stone Island garments are even and secure, with attention to detail evident in every part of the garment.

Fake:

• Inferior Materials: Fake Stone Island items may use cheaper, less durable fabrics that lack the distinctive feel of the genuine article.

• Poor Craftsmanship: Look for uneven stitching, loose threads, and poorly finished seams, which are common in counterfeit garments.

Tip: If you are buying a second hand garment, make sure that the fabric is not too damaged because if it has not been washed properly as stated on the garment's label, it can show. 

2.The Compass Patch

The real Stone Island compass should be tightly stitched into the centre of the badge, meaning it should gather slightly inwards. However the replica badges do not include this much attention to detail and the compass is only stitched at a surface level.

Authentic:

• Details and Craftsmanship: The stitching on the compass patch should be clean and precise. The embroidery will be neat, with no loose threads or uneven lines.

• Button Attachments: Stone Island patches are attached with buttons, not sewn directly onto the garment. Authentic patches usually have a clear, well-defined button design.

• Colour and Design: The colours on the patch should be vibrant, with the yellow and green elements standing out clearly. The compass logo should be symmetrical and accurately depicted.

Fake:

• Poor Stitching: Fake patches often have messy stitching with threads that come loose easily.

• Sewn Patches: If the patch is sewn directly onto the garment without buttons, it's a red flag.

• Incorrect Colours: Counterfeit patches might have dull or incorrect colours. The compass logo may appear distorted or asymmetrical.

3.The Stone Island Badge

The problem with Stone Island badges and using them to verify a Stone Island garment is that real badges can be affixed to fake garments and it has been known to find fake badges on real garments. 

(1)To spot a fake badge, start by looking at the colour of the logo. Authentic badges will have pale, rather than vibrant, greens and yellows which are saturated.

• Authentic:The green color on the authentic badge is a true green shade and is clearly distinguishable as green.

• Fake: On the fake Stone Island badge, the green color appears darker and may have a slight resemblance to grey.

(2)The two button holes on the badge will have an elliptical shape with the two longer sides being slightly curved. Fake Stone Island badges often have straight edged oblong button holes which will be the sign of a forgery. 

(3)Genuine Stone Island badges will have a drop stitch in the centre of the outer edge of the two button holes, with the stitch dropping down and appearing as a small yellow dot on the badge border. Fakes may have this drop stitch missing.

(4)On the reverse of the badge a real Stone Island badge will have white stitching between the yellow and green on the compass, fakes could have a different colour, real badges will always be white.

(5)The buttons that hold the Stone Island logo patch in place also give an indication of the authenticity of the item. This is because the engraving of the Stone Island logo is more pronounced than on fake products.

4. The Logo Patch Stitching

The obvious fake  Stone Island often have scruffy stitching that doesn’t look expensive or luxurious. Additionally other flaws such as asymmetry and loose threading and within the badge are commonly seen on the fakes.

4.1. Black

• Authentic: Check for loose threads or stitching errors below the compass.

• Fake: Replicas often have extra white threads below the compass, indicating poor stitching quality.

4.2. Green & Yellow

Authentic:

• Precise stitching around the text and logo.

• Neat and smooth stitching on the “S” character and other badge parts.

Fake:

• Misplaced stitching, including areas outside the text and logo.

• Chunky and heavy stitching on the “S” character and other parts, lacking neatness.

4.3. Cream

• Authentic: Ensure there are no loose threads hanging below the compass.

• Fake: Replicas may have loose cream-colored threads below the compass, indicating poor craftsmanship.

5.The Labels and Tags

Authentic:

• Material and Print Quality: The main label should feel high-quality, and the printing should be sharp and clear. Look for a smooth finish and consistency in the font.

• Security Features: Many newer Stone Island items come with a Certilogo code, a unique 12-digit code that can be verified on the Certilogo website to confirm authenticity.

Fake:

• Cheap Materials: Fake labels often use lower-quality materials that feel rough or flimsy.

• Missing Security Features: Lack of a Certilogo code or a code that fails verification is a strong indicator of a fake.

• Blurry Print: The printing on fake labels might be blurry or uneven, with discrepancies in the font or spacing.

6.The Text

All lettering on the badge should be uniform and consistent. If any letters look misshapen it is likely you are looking at a fake. Obviously grammar is another thing to look out for, make sure Stone Island is spelt correctly!

We can see the difference between real and fake  Stone Island  badge text from the pictures below：

Authentic:

• The “N” character is well-defined and not fat.

• The diagonal line in the middle of the “N” is clearly visible.

Fake:

• The “N” character is fatter and less well-defined.

• The diagonal line in the middle of the “N” is not as visible as on the authentic badge.

7.The Stone Island Zips

As you’d expect with Stone Island they use premium zips on their products, firstly look for quality.

(1)Zips on Stone Island products will either be Lampo or YKK. On older products look for a Lampo zip, these will be embossed with Lampo name or logo. On newer products look for branded YKK zips.

(2)While there has been the odd occasion where a different zipper has been used, if the piece doesn’t have a Lampo or YKK zip then it should be a cause for concern and further authentication should be explored.

8.The Stone Island Buttons

After the zips, buttons are the easiest way to determine the authenticity of a Stone Island peice.

(1)Genuine Stone Island buttons will be engraved with the words ‘Stone’ & ‘Island’ around the circumference of the face of the button with the words separated by two crosses (miniature compasses). Sleeve buttons that fasten the badge to the sleeve will normally be black in colour and consistent in diameter.

(2)Since 1986, all buttons have a cross in the middle which form the stitching holes, rather than four circular holes which are often found on fakes.

(3)Further evidence of a genuine piece can be found on the rear of the buttons. Look for a small indent, directly behind the engraved word ‘Island’ on the front of the button and positioned central of the word.  If missing, it means you’re looking at fake Stone Island buttons and unless there’s a reason that the buttons have been replaced, then a fake product .

Tip:A widely faked item is the Raso Gommato jacket which has been referred to as the 'Raso Tomato' jacket. This will tend to have rounded holes for buttons which should be considered a red flag.

9.Stone Island Certilogo Authentication

Since the Spring/Summer collection of 2014 Stone Island have been using Certilogo to verify the identity of original garments. 

(1)A unique 12-digit Certilogo code (preceded by the letters CLG) and a QR code will be found on the security label of each garment. Enter this 12-digit code into the Certilogo portal, or scan the QR code and it will confirm the authenticity of the individual product.

(2)Check the back of the Certilogo label on the product. On an authentic label the stitching will be visible on the reverse, on replicas it may not.

(3)Before even scanning the Certilogo you will see that the 'L' of 'CERTILOGO' should have a kink or curve in it for a genuine piece. If the L is completely straight with no kink, upon scanning in the Certilogo, it will return the item as being counterfeit (see example below).

‍(4)The material for the Certilogo labels is not cotton and shouldn't take to dye. Since Stone Island are famous for dying their garments, this is another way to spot a fake item before scanning the Certilogo. 

For further information, visit Certilogo.com

Tip:

• Some product families do not have CLG and QR Certilogo codes (footwear and some types of accessories).

• In these cases, and for adult products pre-dating SS14, it is possible to verify a product's authenticity by contacting Stone Island directly: to do so, please send details and photos of the items in question to anticounterfeiting@spwco.it.

10.Stone Island ART Number

Stone Island first started using ART numbers in 1986 to help verify genuine pieces.

(1) The ART number identifies the year, season, brand, product type, material, colour and treatment process and will be found on the product label.

(2) The first two numbers correspond to the year. Collections produced in 2020 should logically begin with 72/73. Pieces produced in : 

• 2017 : 66/67

• 2018 : 68/69

• 2019 : 70/71

• 2020 : 72/73

• 2021 : 74/75

(3) Even numbers represent the Spring/Summer season and odd numbers indicate the Fall/Winter season.Then this number may be accompanied by the number :

• 14, which indicates that the product in question is from the Stone Island denim range

• 15, with reference to the Stone Island range

• 16, indicating the Stone Island kids line

(4) The second two digits (B) represent the product line, while the fifth digit (C) indicates the type of item. The last digits (D) denote colors and trims, with less significance.

(5) Finally, the set can be accompanied by a number from 0 to 9 or a letter. As mentioned above, the ART code applies to all the products of the Italian group. We will only list here the numbers and letters that concern Stone Island : 

• 2 = t-shirts

• 5 = knitwear

• 6 = sweatshirt (hoodie et crewneck)

• 7 = long coast

• 9 = accessoires

• G = waistcoat

• L = Shorts

• M = Jacket

Too many two's

The infamous art number ending in 222. An example is 571540222. 99.9% of the Stone Island jackets available online with art numbers that end in 222 are fakes. Some authentic jackets (e.g. Soft Shells) end in 22, but never 222. Always be wary if you have a jacket with a number that ends in 222 as it could be fake and you should use other methods of authenticity identification.

Tip: One can also verify the authenticity using the Stone Island Art Number Checker tool.

11.The Wash Label 

（1）Over the years, Stone Island continues to update it’s wash labels for many reasons (staying ahead of fakes, advancements in authentication and material technology & changes in suppliers).

（2）The Grid below shows a selection of authentic Stone Island items and their wash labels, ranging from early 90s to 2022. Each one of these are real and you can use this table to compare with your own items. 

（3）On authentic Stone island items, often the art number label will take on some of the garment colour as it’s attached before the final dying process is carried out. We can see this colour transfer in at least 4 of the wash labels shown (e.g. no.1 is slightly pink and no.7 is slightly blue).

The Baumwol blooper

An easy way to spot a fake, in particular the infamous jumbo cord overshirts, is the incorrect spelling of Baumwol on the wash label. “Baumwol” means cotton in German but the fakes are spelt “Baunwol”, a small yet crucial mistake that would never be made by a luxury brand! See below:

12.The Original Stone Island Packaging Box

(1) A big giveaway if buying new, genuine Stone Island will come in branded and tagged packaging. Fakes will often be in nondescript packaging, a genuine Stone Island would never be in a non branded package. 

(2)Tags on fakes might be plain whereas genuine Stone Island will be barcoded and the tag itself will have a high quality cut and feel.

(3) Products are presented in a reusable Stone Island box with a black ribbon featuring the Compass logo.

13.The Country Of Origin

(1) All recent Stone Island pieces come with a label, on which will be listed the country of origin. Predominantly this will show as Italy, Romania or Tunisia. 

(2) Occasionally, other countries may be listed, but if there is no origin on the label, then it’s a fake.

Where are Stone Island items made?

In the early 80s, 90s and naughties, Stone Island produced all of its products in Nitin. and a place called Ravarino. In the more modern day, Stone Islands actually made in other countries. such as Tunisia, Turkey, Romania.

14.The Price of Stone Island

Why is Stone Island so expensive? You pay for quality. The materials and techniques used in the Stone Island products carry a premium price. If you’re being offered a Stone Island piece at a price that seems too good to be true, then it probably is. 

Authentic:

• Consistent with Market Value: Stone Island is a premium brand, so genuine pieces will reflect that in their pricing. Be cautious of prices that seem too good to be true.

Counterfeit:

• Too Cheap: If the price is significantly lower than the retail value, it’s likely a fake.

15.BuyStone Island From Reputable Seller

If you are looking to purchase a Stone Island piece, obviously everyone loves online shopping, but how can you be sure you are not being scammed? Where to buy authentic Stone Island?

Many resale sites such as Vinted or Depop are full of fake items sold at new prices, and some users may find themselves confused when they receive the products. To ensure you have an authentic Stone Island product, it is recommended that you purchase it from trusted and authorized sources, such as:

(1)Choose official channels to purchase Stone Island 

• The easiest way to check is to choose a reliable purchasing channel, such as the official Stone Island website, official authorized dealers or exclusive stores.

• This can greatly reduce the risk of purchasing fake Stone Island and enjoy official after-sales service guarantee.

(2)Avoid second-hand platforms from unknown sources

• If you choose to buy on a second-hand platform, be sure to confirm the credibility of the seller. 

• It is best to avoid buying from unauthorized sellers, second-hand resale sites or online auctions, and flea markets, where counterfeit Stone Island  items are more common.

• It’s much harder to be sure you are buying real Stone Island through sites such as Vinted and Depop as anyone can claim to be selling rare, vintage pieces with little to no real proof. 

Suspicious Sellers: Be wary of unfamiliar websites, auction sites, or sellers with poor reviews. Always purchase from authorised retailers or the official Stone Island website.

How To Spot Fake Stone Island Quickly?

To make the Stone Island real vs. fake process quicker and easier, here are 4 indicators to check for to confirm whether your Stone Island badge is real or fake:

• Inspect the text on the Stone Island badge for inconsistencies.

• Ensure the color of the badge is bold and bright.

• Look for threads that hang from the stitching on the back and in front of the badge.

• Check that the stitching of the compass is deep and heavy.

• Google the 8-9 digit Art Number found on your Stone Island item. The model should match the images online, irrespective of color.

• Most Stone Island jackets with an Art Number ending in 222 are fake. Be cautious and use other authentication methods.

• Compare your item's wash label with authentic ones from various years to spot discrepancies.

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