Fur Types

Karakul lamb (Ovis aries) One of the oldest breeds of domesticated sheep in the world. Also known as Persian lamb and Astrakhan. Pelt is distinctive for softness and lustrous wavy curls. Typically used for full fur garments such as coats and skirts, as well as trimming.

Canadian Marten (Martes americana) Wild furbearer found in Canada and parts of USA, cousin to the Russian sable. The marten exhibits particularly soft and lustrous guard hairs with dense silky underfur. Typically used for coats, jackets and trimming.

Mink (Mustela vision) Denmark is a major producer of farmed mink. This is the most common farmed species, producing dense, lightweight fur. Wide range of natural colours from white to black, taking in pearl, violet and sapphire, demi-buff (medium brown) and “ranch” (very dark brown). The fur can be worked in many ways, including shorn, knitted and also dyed in many different colours. Used for coats, jackets and trimmings.

Musquash (Ondatra zibethica) Semi-aquatic mammal which is very prolific. Found wild throughout North American and Europe, the former Soviet Union and China. Thick, waterproof underfur with long, glossy overlayer of guard hairs. Colour varies from lightweight brown to black. Often used for coats, jackets and trimmings.

Sable (Martes zibellina) Wild fur-bearer found only in Russia, sable is the most expensive fur, highly valued for its rarity, lush dark colour and deep, silky pelt. Ranges in colour from dark brown (almost black) through brown to pale yellow/golden. Also farmed to a small extent. Used for garments, trimming and small pieces such as stoles.

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