Mink is the king of furs. It is unsurpassed in durability and beauty. American Legend mink will not mat, break or shed if properly cared for.
Mink is a combination of two types of fur. The guard hair is the top covering of lustrous fur. The underfur is the shorter, softer fur supporting the guard hair. American Legend’s strict grading standards are concerned with many different characteristics of both types of fur and also the leather underneath.
One of the most appealing aspects of fine mink is its depth and light reflecting qualities. To maximize these qualities, the underfur should have sufficient thickness to support the guard hair and allow it to stand out. If the underfur is too sparse, it is hidden by the guard hair, creating a flat appearance. The guard hair must have the density needed to protect the underfur and give the mink a lustrous appearance.
The guard hair must present the perfect appearance and texture. American Legend requires straight, uniform-length guard hair, neither too coarse nor too fine. Bent guard hairs or those of uneven length can cause an undesired shaggy appearance.
Resilience is an elusive quality only possessed by the best mink. Both the underfur and guard hair should spring back when stroked. Resilience is the result of good fur density, uniform length and proper texture of the fur.
The leather underneath the fur is also important to the quality of the mink. Through years of experience, American mink producers have found that any defect in the leather usually corresponds to a defect in the fur. American Legend accepts only those pelts with perfect leather. The leather must also be light and supple to the touch in order to become the ‘fabric’ of a beautiful garment. Fortunately, the American climate is ideal for producing these required qualities in leather.
One common concern of mink consumers is whether to buy a garment made of male or female pelts. In general, female pelts are smaller and lighter than male pelts. However, small male pelts may be very similar. The primary objective should be to acquire the finest quality mink in a professionally fitted garment. Both male and female mink form American Legend are equally beautiful and durable.