Fur Types

This is an introduction to the origin and characteristics of some of the most common furs used today. The common name of the fur is given together with its scientific Latin name

North American Beaver (Castor canadensis) Large, semi-aquatic, wild animal from North America. Long guard hairs are very dark brown to reddish or “blonde”. Often plucked or sheared by designers to show soft underfur and to reduce weight. Used for trimmings and full fur garments.

Coyote (Canis latrans) Abundant North American wild furbearer. Produces long, dense fur ranging in colour from cream to dark grey. Fur used for full coats and trim.

Finnraccoon (Nyctereutes procyonoides) Today, predominantly farmed in Finland, but also known as Asiatic Raccoon. Thick and lustrous fur with a natural colour range from beige through to brown to reddish brown. Often used in trimmings and sports coats.

Silver Fox (Vulpes vulpes) Finland is famous for its farmed foxes. The most precious of the fox furs is Silver Fox.  It is a long glossy lightweight fur with natural colours in black and white.  It is a handsome velvet-black colour with dense long guard hairs that mostly shade into silvery white towards the tips, thus giving the fur a beautiful silvery shimmer.  Silver fox is traditionally used for collars and cuffs, wraps and stoles.

Blue Fox (Alopex lagopus) Farmed blue foxes are dark to pale grey in colour. Can also produce almost white fur, known as white or shadow fox. Often dyed in many shades. Soft and thick hair is often used for collars , trimmings, jackets and full-length coats.

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