Types of Fur

Furs come from the skins of different animals. These have been used in clothing since the Stone Age. They are seen as a classic and luxurious choice. Fur is valued for its softness, warmth, and elegance. In fact, it can enhance any outfit.

Different types of furs are available in the market. These vary in texture, look, warmth, and price. However, one thing is true. Natural furs can last for decades as long as you take care of them properly.

Different Types of Furs

Different Types of Furs Explained

Let’s explore different types of furs out there to understand things better.

Beaver Fur

Beavers used to live in Europe. However, now they are mainly found in North America. They are also starting to return to Russia. These aquatic animals have shiny and coarse top fur along with soft and thick underfur.

Their fur comes in a variety of colors. These colors usually include dark brown on the back which fades to light golden brown on the sides. It can be light or even silvery all over. Beaver fur should never have a red tint no matter the color.
The finest beaver fur comes from Canada, the northern United States, and Alaska. This is because here the fur is the longest.
Southern beaver fur is thicker and usually cheaper than northern beaver fur. The interesting thing is that the texture is similar but it just may not be as fluffy underneath.

Beaver fur can be used in its natural state or after being plucked or sheared. However, the southern beaver is best when left natural.

Chinchilla Fur

Chinchilla fur is incredibly soft. It has recently become more popular than other types of fur coats. This is true for a good reason.

Chinchillas have amazing hair density. They have over 20,000 hairs per square centimeter. This means their fur is not only luxurious but also resistant to parasites. This quality makes it even more valuable.

Chinchilla fur coats are thick, silky, and warm, but still surprisingly lightweight.

There are now different colors of chinchilla fur due to mutations. However, the most common color is slate-blue or silvery gray. This fur usually has a gradient. It is lighter on top and darker underneath.

Overall, chinchilla fur is one of the most expensive types because it is delicate and tricky to work with.

Mink Fur Coats

Mink Fur

Mink fur is known for its incredibly soft feel and lightweight nature. This makes it the most popular fur sold around the world.

Long Hair Mink Fur has shiny guard hairs with a soft and thick underfur.
On the other hand, Sheared Mink Fur has a plush velvety texture that feels very soft. It keeps you feel warm while being lighter than long hair mink fur.

Mink fur clothing not only looks elegant right away. It can also last for many years if cared for properly. This is because mink fur is popular for combining durability with luxury.

Female mink pelts are smaller with a softer and silkier touch than male pelts. This is making them more sought after and pricier.

Sectioned or Pieced Mink Fur is made by stitching together pieces of mink fur instead of using whole pelts. These pieced garments can be very stylish. These are also usually much cheaper than full mink fur coats.

Sable Fur

Sable fur comes from a small animal found mainly in the northern parts of China and Russia. Historically, ancient civilizations like the Mongolians and Romans farmed these animals for their fur. Russians and other European countries use sable fur to make luxurious fabrics at present. Sable is highly valued for its exceptional softness and smooth feel.

Sable fur was a symbol of wealth and nobility in the past. It was often referred to as “soft gold”. This is due to its elegance and durability. It is considered a “fashion gem” that many women aspire to own.

The most popular sable species are the North American, Barguzinsky, and Yenisei.

Barguzinsky sable has a dark color with gray hairs. It is the most expensive sable fur type.
Yenisei sable ranks second on being the expensive sable fur. It has skin-colored fur.
The North American sable ranks third.

There has been a high demand for sable fur over the last century. This is because it represents timeless chic and luxury. One of its best features is that it pairs well with other materials. Also, it is so soft that it is often used in its natural state.

Fox Fur Coats

Fox Fur

If you want a stylish and comfortable fur that works for almost any occasion, hold on. Fox fur is a great choice. Many women find it easy to wear all day.

Fox fur comes in a wide variety of natural colors. These include silver, blue, red, crystal, gray, and white. These can also be dyed to match your personal style.
Fox fur is suitable for year-round wear. While it is not the warmest option but it can be worn on cool spring nights and even during summer.
It is warm enough for winter but not as much as furs like chinchilla or sable.

Fox fur is trendy and versatile, easily paired with many outfits.

Rabbit Fur

Rabbit fur is very popular because it is incredibly soft. It is also beautiful, versatile, and affordable. It features medium-length guard hair which makes it lightweight and warm.

You can wear it in its natural longhaired form or have it sheared for a sportier look. Rabbit fur can also be easily dyed, knitted, or shaped to create unique styles. It can also be used to mimic more expensive furs like chinchilla.

Rex rabbit fur was developed in France almost 100 years ago. This is special because it doesn’t have prominent guard hairs. This gives it a silkier and denser texture similar to sheared mink.

Final Thoughts

That is all for different types of furs you need to know. It is always better to learn about different furs. This practice will help you to recognize the original fur and make the right choice.