For centuries Stringray leather has been used by many civilizations to make items including furniture, sword handles, armor, shoe and purses. However, as ubiquitous as this durable leather been throughout history, we would wager that many people are unfamiliar with some basic information about Stringray leather and the products that can be made from it. Here is some information about the stingray that will help you truly appreciate this one-of-a-kind, exotic leather.
· Stringray leather is coarse in texture: Unlike some kinds of exotic leather, stingray leather is slightly coarse to the touch. That is because it is comprised of small beads of calcium. These beads give it strength. In fact, so strong is Stringray leather that ancient warriors once used it to help fortify their armor against swords.
· The scientific name for Stringray leather is shagreen: This word derived from the word chagrin which is French in origin. It means something that is rough in texture as is Stringray leather.
· Many items can be and are made from Stringray leather: One of the many benefits of Stringray leather is that it can be and is used in a great many products from wallets to handbags to car upholstery to eyeglass cases, etc.
· Stingrays are hunted for more than just their leather: Critics of people who harvest stingrays for their leather insist that the animal is largely wasted by hunters. This is not true. In some countries like Singapore, Vietnam and Cambodia stingrays are harvested on farms so that their meat can be eaten by people. Thus, the locals in these communities respect the stingray for being able to sustain them.
· There are two grads of stingray leather: Quality Stringray leather is pristine, flawless and free of flaws and defects. This is Grade 2. Grade 1 Stringray leather contains flaws and is of relatively low quality.
Hopefully, some of this information will help you to become a better informed consumer when it comes to purchasing exotic leathers in general and Stringray leather specifically. It may also help you to detect some of the low quality and counterfeit products that are on the market. In the meantime, make a gift of a Stringray handbag or a Stringray wallet for men to someone you love this season. We also have several other items on our site fashioned from this exotic and durable leather.