Hermès Exotics: An Expert's Guide

The only thing more coveted than a Hermès bag is a Hermès bag in exotic leather. Handmade in the Hermès ateliers, all exotic leathers are carefully inspected to ensure that only the finest pieces are used in each bag. We teach you what you need to know before purchasing a Hermès Exotic Skin Bag.

Porosus Crocodile

Porosus Crocodile is at the echelon of Hermès precious leathers. Fetching the highest prices due to its beauty and quality, Hermès uses it for its finest pieces. 

Originating mainly from Australia, it's characterized by the tiny pores on each plate and comes in two finishings: Matte or Lisse. The shiny effect is achieved from a very careful and arduous agate stone polishing; Matte by treating the skin with wool felt. For more recent bags, a Hermès porosus leather can be easily recognized by a “^” caret mark, which can be found next to the brand stamp or on the panel of the bag. For vintage pieces that don’t have a carat mark, you can identify a Porosus by the pores on the center of each scale.

Niloticus Crocodile

Niloticus crocodile is the second most coveted Hermès exotic. The skin originates from a freshwater species native to the Nile River in Africa. The Niloticus crocodile's scales are subtly larger than those of Porosus, and like Porosus comes in both Matte and Lisse. A fast way to identify Niloticus crocodile is by the “..” diaeresis mark.

Alligator Mississippiensis

Although similar to crocodile, the Mississippiensis alligator can be recognized by its poreless scales, which are larger than those found on crocodile. Also available in both Matte and Lisse, it was actually the first of exotic leathers to be offered in matte finish.

Lizard

This is the Rarest of Hermès leathers, and the two main varieties are Varanus Niloticus and Salvator. Coveted for its highly glamorous appeal, Varanus can be recognized by its refined, even scales and its exceptional reaction to dye, resulting in captivatingly profound colors. Although one of the largest reptiles, the Niloticus lizard is smaller than crocodiles or alligators, and so its skin is most commonly seen on small bags and exclusively in Sellier Stitching.

One of the oldest Hermès exotics, lizards scales protect the skin from wear, though it remains sensitive to the elements, especially sunlight. Hermès differentiates the use of this skin with a dash mark for Niloticus and an equal mark for Salvator, which can be found next to the brand stamp.

Ostrich

Originating from South Africa, ostrich is the only avian species used in leather goods, and one of the oldest exotic leathers used by Hermès. Ostrich skin bags are distinguished by their characteristic 'perles', aka pearls.

When purchasing an ostrich leather bag, carefully examine the handle, as it often shows the first signs of wear due to natural oils from handling. However Ostrich is an extremely resistant leather and will last as an investment for many years.

Caring for Hermès Exotics

As the term "precious skins" suggests, Exotics require special handling. More sensitive to the elements than regular leather bags, Crocodile, Alligator, Varanus, and Ostrich should be kept away from rain, body creams, excessive sunlight, and extreme temperatures. Avoid rubbing light-colored Exotics against darker clothing to prevent color transfer. Ideally, store them with a bag pillow in their box and dust bag, in a dry, dark environment at room temperature.

After each use, wipe your bag gently with a soft cloth, and send it to a professional bag spa at least once every two years. With proper care, your Exotic bag will last well beyond a lifetime, becoming even more beautiful with age.