
Color & Finishing
We currently offer 21 Desert Finish Colors, 21 Glazed Finish Colors, and 4 Millennium Finish Colors for our Contract Tanning clients. We do not offer “natural tanned” or “Himalayan” skins for contract tanning. We can offer special colors or finishing for an additional fee of $400 per skin. Please contact our office for details.
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Classic/ Glazed Finish
Our Classic Glazed finish is the glossiest and most traditional luxury finish for alligator and crocodile leather. With its mirror-like shine and glassy smooth feel, it has long been a hallmark of timeless elegance.
Each skin is meticulously polished by hand using a traditional glazing jack operated by a skilled artisan. Unlike synthetic coatings, no lacquers or plastic finishes are used—this is a pure, protein-based glaze achieved through friction polishing with a smooth stone.
This finish exhibits a tight break when bent and can be easily re-glazed over time to restore its original luster. However, because the glaze is not sealed, it is sensitive to moisture and should not be exposed to rain or humidity, as spotting may occur. Additionally, Classic Glazed is somewhat delicate and not intended for heavy-duty or sport-related use.
Recommended for: structured evening bags, dress belts, and small leather goods.
Not recommended for: soft bags, cowboy boots, upholstery, or any use in wet conditions or requiring rugged durability. -
Desert/ Matte Finish
Desert finish is our most durable and weather-resistant leather, designed to withstand the rigors of daily use while maintaining its luxurious appearance. It is both oil and water resistant, making it an excellent choice for products that require long-lasting performance and resilience. The silky-smooth surface and soft glow enhance the natural elegance of the leather, while the full-bodied character adds dimension and depth to each skin. Desert/Matte finish most closely resembles the look and feel of traditional cowhide leathers, offering a familiar yet elevated touch. Supple yet strong, this finish is ideal for a wide variety of end uses and is a favorite among artisans and designers for its versatility.
Recommended for: cowboy boots, upholstery, soft bags, small leather goods, and belts.
When in doubt, choose Desert—it’s our most adaptable and trusted finish. -
Millennium Finish
Millennium finish offers the elegant, high-gloss appeal of classic glazed leather with the strength and resilience of our Desert finish. It features a durable urethane topcoat that provides exceptional protection, making it both highly flexible and water resistant—ideal for shiny handbags intended for everyday use, even in rainy or humid climates. This finish is especially well-suited for handbags constructed inside out, as it resists cracking during the turning process and maintains a consistent, polished surface. Please note: Millennium finish tends to highlight scars and is not recommended for heavily scarred skins. Recommended for: handbags (including turned-construction styles), small leather goods, and belts.
Not recommended for boots.