How to Tell the Difference between Rabbit Fur & Mink

Rabbit and mink are two popular furs used in the production of outwear, from

full-length coats to fur-trimmed hats and gloves. For a novice fur wearer,

telling the difference between these two furs can be a daunting task. Mink

is the most popular type of fur on the market and generally carries a much

higher price tag than rabbit, which is less expensive to rear and, therefore,

carries a lower premium. There are several ways that even the most

inexperienced fur wearer can tell the difference between a luxurious mink

piece and a more common and less expensive rabbit garment.

Instructions

1. Feel the texture and softness of the piece against the fur's grain. Mink will be soft and luxurious when felt in this manner. A lesser quality fur, such as rabbit, will feel more coarse and rough.

2. Look at the appearance of the fur. Mink will have a shinier coloring, while rabbit will take on a duller appearance.

3. Examine the length of the individual hairs. Coats and pieces that sport medium-length hair are more likely to be rabbit. A piece that is covered with shorter, denser fur is both warmer and mink.

Tips & Warnings

• Look at the fur piece's price tag. A piece that is constructed entirely of rabbit or has rabbit trim will be much less expensive than a piece made from mink

References

• Fur Information Council of America: About Fur
• Fur Council of Canada: Buying Fur