How to tell real karakul from a fake: 8 signs
Real karakul has a leather base (the pelt side), a living curl and a natural silky sheen, while faux fur has a fabric backing and an identical, “printed” pattern. Below are the signs you can use to check a fur coat before you buy.
Check the underside
On real fur you can see skin on the underside (the pelt side), smooth or slightly rough. Faux fur has a fabric or knitted backing with interlaced threads. This is the most reliable sign.
Signs of real karakul
- The hair grows out of the skin: if you part the fur, you will see skin, not fabric
- The curls are unique: in real karakul the pattern differs slightly from pelt to pelt rather than repeating perfectly
- The sheen is natural and silky, with shimmering highlights
- The fur feels warm to the touch and quickly springs back after being pressed
- The tips of the hairs are tapered, not cut off evenly as on synthetic fur
- The piece is made of separate pelts with neat seams between them
What to look for when buying
- Price: a price that is too low for a “karakul” fur coat is a warning sign
- Seams and lining: neat handwork shows in even seams and evenly set pelts
- Origin: ask where the fur comes from and where the piece is made
- Fit: the coat should sit comfortably on the shoulders and in the sleeves
- The seller: it is easier to buy from an atelier with a permanent address, where you can see and touch the fur
What not to do
Do not test fur with a flame, and do not damage the piece in the shop. It is enough to inspect the underside and seams, judge the curl and sheen, and ask questions about where the fur comes from.
How we work at Luxury Furs
The fur comes directly from Bukhara, and cutting and sewing are done by hand in our atelier in Tashkent. You are welcome to visit the atelier at Shohjahon Street 1B (Mon–Sat 10:00–18:00), look at the fur and the underside, and ask any questions about its origin and how it is made — we have worked with karakul since 1998.
Frequently asked questions
How can I tell real karakul from faux karakul?
Look at the underside: on real fur it is skin, on faux fur it is fabric. Part the hair: on real fur it grows out of the skin. Also look for a natural sheen and a slightly varying curl pattern.
Can real karakul be cheap?
A very low price is a reason to be cautious: the fur may be faux, or the pelts may be of poor quality. Ask where the fur comes from and inspect the piece.
What should I ask the seller when buying a karakul fur coat?
Where the fur comes from, where and how the piece is made, whether you can see the underside and seams, and what care and storage services are offered.
Can I test karakul with fire?
We do not recommend damaging the piece. It is enough to inspect the underside, seams, curl and sheen, and to ask questions about origin.
Where does your karakul come from?
All our karakul comes directly from Bukhara, and we sew it by hand in Tashkent.
Book a consultation
Tell us what kind of fur coat you are looking for — our consultant will help you choose the model, shade and size. Atelier: Shohjahon Street 1B, Yakkasaroy District, Tashkent. Mon–Sat 10:00–18:00.