Be it shoes, bags, or belts, no other material created to accessorize luxury can stand as superior in timelessness and durability to genuine leather. However, with the recent surge in synthetic alternatives and counterfeit products, it may be tough for one to make out a difference between real leather from a fake. Whether you are investing in a handmade leather bag or a high-quality leather belt, understanding how to tell if leather is genuine is going to ensure that you get the quality and the workmanship you pay for.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key characteristics of genuine leather and provide practical tips that will help you make an informed purchase.
What is Genuine Leather?
Genuine leather is a quality type of leather made from animal hides, usually those coming from cows, goats, or exotic animals like crocodiles and pythons. It is highly valued because of its strength, natural feel, and great aging it develops over time. Unlike synthetic leather, also commonly referred to as either pleather or faux leather, genuine leather is a natural material that breathes, develops a patina, and can last for decades with proper care.
How to Identify Genuine Leather: 7 Key Tips
1- Check the Texture
Genuine leather is also naturally uneven in texture and would have imperfections. Look for:
- Pores and Grain: The skin would show pores and natural grain marks. No two pieces are identical.
- Imperfections: Minor scars, wrinkles, or subtle differences in textures confirm the genuity of the leather. Often, synthetic leathers would appear too well and uniform.
2-Smell the Leather
Smell is one of the easiest ways to really tell if leather is genuine. Real leather has that unmistakable, earthy smell that’s hard to fake. Synthetic leather often smells like chemicals or plastic. If it smells like a new car interior or some kind of cheap handbag, it’s probably not real.
3-Check the Edges
The edges of real leather are normally coarse and unfinished since leather is a natural resource. Check for:
Irregular Edges: Real leather will typically have slightly frayed or uneven edges.
Layered Edges: Synthetic leather will often have a perfectly smooth edge or, if cut, may reveal a layer more like a cloth underneath.
4-Do the Water Test
Real leather is porous, so it absorbs water. Synthetic leather does not absorb water. To test:
Place a small drop of water on the surface, If it absorbs quickly, the leather is probably real. If the water beads up and just sits on top, then it is most likely synthetic.
Note: Be very careful with this test because too much water could damage leather. You want to use a minimal amount only.
5-Feel for the Leather’s Temperature
Leather is a natural product, and it tends to take on its ambient temperature. With real leather:
It will feel cool to the touch initially and gradually warm up as it adjusts to your body temperature.
Synthetic leather, being plastic-based, often feels warm or sticky from the start.
6-Look for a Label or Stamp
Reputable brands often label their products to indicate the type of leather used. Look for terms like:
Full-Grain Leather: The highest quality, with the natural grain intact.
Top-Grain Leather: Slightly sanded for a smoother finish but still genuine.
Genuine Leather: A lower grade of real leather, but still authentic.
Avoid products labeled as “bonded leather” or “PU leather” as these are not 100% genuine.
7-Check the Price
But it is not a foolproof method to know the authenticity of leather. Then there’s the price: it usually tells a story. Genuine leather, for that matter, is pricier to produce than synthetic ones. When the price seems too good to be true, it certainly isn’t genuine leather.
Why Purchase Genuine Leather?
Investing in genuine leather is worth the reasons herein explained:
Durability: Genuine leather lasts for years and improves with age.
Sustainability: It’s a natural, biodegradable material.
Aesthetic Appeal: The unique texture and patina of the real leather give character and elegance to any accessory.
Conclusion
Identifying real leather is not a task that needs to be overwhelming. Paying attention to texture, smell, edges, and other key characteristics will lead you to confidently choose high-quality leather products that stand the test of time. At Jalal SJS, we pride ourselves on crafting handmade leather goods from the finest natural materials, ensuring every piece is a true work of art.
Ready to invest in real leather? Browse through our handmade leather bags, belts, and shoes today for a truly luxurious experience in real craftsmanship.
