A distinct color combination, a touch so soft it’s impossible to resist, and a unique quality that lasts a lifetime: this is chinchilla fur, a type of fur so sought-after that every fur enthusiast is dreaming to add to their collection.
But what exactly is a chinchilla fur? Is it really as dense and soft as people say it is and, most importantly, how much does a chinchilla fur coat actually cost?
Let’s explore the world of real chinchilla fur coats!
What is chinchilla fur?
Chinchilla fur comes from an animal called chinchilla, which is a small rodent native to the Andes mountains in South America, originating from countries like Bolivia, Peru, and Chile.
There are two main species of chinchillas: the short-tailed (Chinchilla chinchilla) and the long-tailed (Chinchilla lanigera). The long-tailed one is the species most commonly bred for fur.
It’s relatively easy to identify a real chinchilla fur coat or accessory because they typically come in a gradient color, lighter on top and with a darker underfur, with the blue/gray combination being the most prominent.
Further reading: How to tell if a fur coat is real or not: 5+1 tips that will help you identify authentic fur
How dense is chinchilla fur?
Chinchillas are actually among the few animals with such a high hair density.
Want to know how thick a chinchilla fur is? If humans have a maximum of 2 or 3 hairs growing from every follicle, chinchillas have around 50!
This translates to more than 20.000 hairs per square inch which, besides making the fur extremely soft, serves another purpose: chinchilla fur is so dense that it is inhabitable to parasites, adding to its high quality and, subsequently, value!
This characteristic is partly responsible for the softness of chinchilla fur, too.
Why is chinchilla fur so soft?
Wondering how soft is chinchilla fur? According to many fur enthusiasts, women ’s real chinchilla fur jackets are among the softest ones available!
Here are some of the factors that make chinchilla fur so soft:
- Hair Density: Chinchilla fur is incredibly dense, with a high number of hairs per follicle. This high hair density contributes to the plush feel of the fur.
- Hair Thickness: The individual hairs of chinchilla fur are very fine, which adds to the softness. The thin diameter of each hair creates a velvety texture, making the fur feel luxurious to the touch.
- No Guard Hairs: Unlike some other fur-bearing animals, chinchillas lack guard hairs, the long, coarse, and often stiff outer hairs that we see in fox furs, for example. The absence of guard hairs in chinchilla fur contributes to its softness, as the fur consists primarily of the soft, downy undercoat.
- Natural Oils: Chinchillas produce natural oils that help keep their fur soft and clean. These oils contribute to the fur’s luster and maintain its soft texture. Additionally, chinchillas engage in dust baths to remove excess oils and maintain the health of their fur.
Learn more: Types of fur coats: How to identify types of real fur coats?
Is chinchilla fur expensive?
Considering that ethically sourced chinchilla fur coats are handmade and tailor-made to each person’s specific measurements, you can understand that they come at a significantly high price point.
But why is chinchilla fur so expensive and how much does a chinchilla fur sell for, exactly?
Why is chinchilla fur so expensive?
There are several factors that contribute to the high cost of chinchilla fur, including but not limited to:
Scarce and labor-intensive production
Chinchillas have a slow reproductive rate, and it takes a long time for them to reach maturity.
Additionally, breeding and raising chinchillas for fur require careful attention to their well-being and living conditions. The labor-intensive nature of chinchilla farming contributes to the overall cost.
You may want to know: How fur coats are made: Everything you need to know!
Quality of fur
Chinchilla fur is prized for its exceptional softness and density.
The fur is very fine and features a high number of hairs per follicle, which contributes to its luxurious texture. The quality of the fur, combined with the limited supply, drives up the price.
Demand for exclusivity
Chinchilla fur is considered a luxury item, and the demand for exclusive and high-end fur products further increases its value.
The rarity of chinchilla fur makes it a status symbol for those who can afford it.
Strict regulations
In some countries, there are strict regulations and ethical considerations surrounding fur production.
These regulations may include standards for the treatment of animals and the environmental impact of fur farming. Meeting these standards can add to the cost of producing chinchilla fur.
Longevity and durability
Chinchilla fur is known for its longevity and durability.
High-quality chinchilla fur products can last for many years with proper care, adding to the perceived value and justifying the higher price.
You may find interesting: How much is a real mink coat? Learn the factors that determine its price
How much is a chinchilla fur coat?
As you may already know, the final price of a women’s fur coat depends on several factors, such as its length, size and specific details – the more material you’ll need, the higher the price.
The price of a chinchilla vest or shawl can start from 2,000€, while a full-length coat, with long sleeves, exterior pockets and collar can come to more than 7,000€.
Of course, you have to make sure you buy your precious new coat from a distinguished furrier, who ethically sources raw materials and is known for their high-quality creations.
If you want to add a chinchilla coat to your collection, check out eFurs.
With dozens of designs available and the ability to manufacture a chinchilla fur coat specifically for your personal preferences and measurements, this is the absolute destination for fur shopping!
Explore eFurs’ chinchilla fur collection
