Hologram

A hologram is an optical element that records light interference patterns, producing images that change color and appearance with viewing angle. Used on banknotes, credit cards, passports, and brand authentication seals, holograms require specialized manufacturing equipment that prevents ordinary printer reproduction.

QR codes and holograms play complementary anti-counterfeiting roles. Holograms provide visual physical authenticity; QR codes provide scannable digital authenticity. Wine labels combining both enable dual verification - visual hologram inspection plus QR code serial number database lookup.

Advanced applications embed QR codes within holograms, visible only at specific angles or lighting conditions and impossible to photocopy. Printing QR codes on hologram surfaces that cannot be removed without destruction prevents sticker-swap attacks.

Holograms cost several cents per unit, limiting application to high-value goods, pharmaceuticals, and official documents. For general consumer goods, QR code-only authentication offers better cost-effectiveness.