 |
 Silver Natural Turquoise Leather Necklace Eagle Biker Earrings by Harley Cool  US $6.90
|
 NEW NATURAL/TAUPE PATENT LEATHER HIGH HEEL PLATFORM GOOD PUMPS SANDAL GOOD US7.5 US $32.95
|
Leather, you get what you pay for!
We've all heard the axiom; you get what you pay for. This is never truer when one is considering the purchase of a quality leather product. Whether it be briefcases, luggage, handbags or even furniture, it would do a consumer well to get past the "sticker shock" when comparing prices of similar described products. One of the first indicators of quality in leather is the price.
In most instances, a higher price equals a better quality of leather. However, just because one product is priced higher, in some cases much higher, than another like product, does not mean that it is better. Evaluate and consider other ways to determine the difference of leather quality, which in turn will justify a higher price. A good place to start would be the origin of the leather. In other words, where did the hide come from? Analysts within the industry agree that;
- European Leather is by far the finest leather in the market place today. Old world craftsmanship, tanning processes and the longevity of producing high quality leather all say one thing; European Leather justifies a higher price.
- Leather from North America is generally of good quality and usually priced more affordably.
- South American, and more recently Central American Leather, are typically considered a lessor quality of leather but priced to reflect this.
- Far East, or Asian Leather have the poorest quality hides, however, it is known that their standards are catching up with other areas of the world and some say that the quality will soon be close to that as European Leather.
Another example in determining the quality of leather is to smell it. Odor is an excellent dead give-away to see if the leather is good or bad. If leather smells rotten, or has the smell of chemicals, it is not of good quality. Don't get confused with "new leather smell", however. New leather can be sensitive to some noses. Leather hides that are tanned using all natural vegetable dyes are the best, and require less time to "gas off" than inferior leather products.
Leather of the finest quality should be clear, clean, and supple, with little need for treatment. This might be understated, but leather should look and feel natural. Leather should show grain variations, and where the hide covered fatty areas of the animal, should be seen and felt. These are common and natural. Inferior quality leather will feel stiff, almost like cardboard, while high quality leather will feel soft, without being mushy.
In summary, even though these helpful hints are just a few of the many ways one can determine the quality of a leather briefcase, a piece of luggage, or perhaps a leather sofa, they can help the consumer to determine, and justify, the higher costs of a quality leather product. Regardless how you look at it, you will get what you pay for.
About the Author
Visit http://www.briefcasesandbeyond.com today and see how leather briefcases, luggage, and more, made from top grade Italian calf skins and natural, vibrant fabrics come together to create clean, simple, and stylish designs. Built to last by Italian artisans. Ask Luke about old world quality for today's fast lifestyle at http://www.briefcasesandbeyond.com
Leather Types
Tags: design, leather, natural, natural leather, natural leather belt, natural leather cleaner, natural leather conditioner, natural leather dyes, natural leather shoes, shoes, shopping