More Than Chic, Stingray Leather is a Statement

A Look at Exotic Stingray Shoes, Stingray Boots and Stingray Wallets

Jan 12, 2009

Stingray leather has a look synonymous with elegance. Here are facts on the stingray shoes, stigray boots, stingray wallets, and stingray bags flooding the fashion world.

Stingray leather is gorgeous. The scales create a pattern resembling hundreds of dark, glittering pearls. The intricate beadwork is almost as irresistible to the touch as to the eye. When light hits stingray shoes, boots, wallets, or bags, its texture sparkles like a piece of jewelry.

Also, the dark scales of each skin are offset by a distinctive white eye. The pearly eye lends stingray leather an unmistakable loveliness different from any other animal hide.

Eye-catching stingray boots, handbags, or shoes have a look that can compliment the classiest outfits and occasions. The pieces are certain to turn heads and bring on the compliments.

Stingray Shoes, Boots, and Handbags Last a Lifetime

In addition to its stunning beauty, stingray leather is incredibly durable. Because each tiny pearl is rooted in the underside of the skin, the leather is virtually impossible to cut or tear. Due to the indestructible nature of the hide, stingray leather was actually used by ancient samurais for body armor and sword handles.

Another feature enhancing the strength of stingray leather is its unique structure. Most leathers are composed of fibers running parallel to each other. Stingray leather though is made up of fibers criss-crossing in every direction. This, combined with the scales’ amazing resistance to water and even fire ensures this leather a longer life than possibly any other type of animal hide.

When cared for properly, stingray leather shoes, boots, wallets, and handbags should last a lifetime. Maintaining stingray leather only requires occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and air drying. Cleaning agents, should never be used on stingray boots, shoes, or handbags and pieces should never be put into the dryer. When buffed with a damp cotton cloth, the radiance of stingray leather will instantly return to its original shine.

Where Does Stingray Leather Come From?

Only two species of stingrays have skin that is covered with scales: Himantura imbricata and Himantura walga. Himantura imbricata are native to the tropical waters off the coasts of Indonesia, India, Cambodia, Oman, Malaysia, the Philippines, Somalia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. Himantura walga also prefer tropical waters, and are found near China, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, and Thailand. Both species are caught by commercial fisherman for their hides and their meat which is considered a delicacy.

Stingray leather has a unique radiance that is different from any other type of animal skin. This fascinating look, combined with the fact that stingrays cannot be commercially farmed makes stingray boots, shoes, wallets, and handbags an expensive commodity.

Since stingray shoes, boots, and handbags are almost certain to last a lifetime, the expense can be justified. With the longevity of stingray leather in mine, buyers often opt for stingray boots, shoes, or handbags in a classic style that will always be in fashion.

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The copyright of the article More Than Chic, Stingray Leather is a Statement in Shoes & Accessories is owned by Marcy Paulson. Permission to republish More Than Chic, Stingray Leather is a Statement in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.