Ladies, we know just how much your Hermès bag(s) means to you — after all, it’s a staple in your wardrobe. Whether it’s choosing from a selection of premium quality leathers to deciding between jaw-dropping colours to the never-ending styles, you’re spoilt for choice.
Thought that was all you need to decide between? We hate to break it to you, but your Hermès hardware is just as important, if not more. We’re sensing some nervous jitters, so settle down, please. We’re about to dish out all the deets.
What’s the Deal with the Hermès Hardware Anyway?
Hardware, contrary to popular belief, is a lot more than just some metal. It gives your handbag character and ties the entire look together. It’s the kind of detail that takes your Birkin from 'nice bag' to “OMG, where did you get that?!”
Imagine candy with rose gold Hermès Kelly hardware. If the thought of that alone didn’t get you blushing, we don’t know what will! The feet, D rings, zippers, clasps, lock, key — basically everything, add sparkle to your bag that would otherwise be pretty plain without them.
Can Hermès Hardware Help You Spot a Fake?
The short and sweet answer: yes, yes it can. In fact, the hardware is one of the major giveaways when spotting a phoney purse. Not only is the gold or palladium-plated hardware stamped and engraved, but the words are also crystal clear.
The Hermès font does tend to change over the years. However, one thing remains the same: the words and letters are accurately spaced apart and aren’t fuzzy or blurred like they’d be in a fake. You’ll also find that the lock and key have matching engravings, and the studs at the bottom allow your Hermès bag to stand on its own feet.
Apart from impeccable engraving, the hardware just feels luxurious. We can’t really put a finger to this, and you’d just need to feel authentic Hermès permabrass hardware to understand what we’re getting at. It’s heavy, doesn’t feel cheap, and while it does get scratches over time (brb, crying), the metal doesn’t peel or chip off.
Get to Know Your Hermès Hardware
Hermès hasn’t shied away from using a range of metals that take their bags to the next level. Fair warning: the list of hardware is long and will leave you more confused than ever.
1. Gold Hardware
The gold hardware, frequently referred to as GHW, is a classic. Think of it as the little black dress — we’re basically saying it’s a staple. It used to be played in 24k gold now you will find it crafted from 18k plated gold (this is to keep costs down)
2. Brushed Gold Hardware
If you’re all about that matte life, brushed gold Hermès hardware is the way to go. It’s a muted shade of gold, which you won’t see very often in the collection, given its rarity. Be wary of the fact that scratches are extra prominent on this.
3. Hermès Rose Gold Hardware
If there was one hardware that we had to choose, it’d be this one. Not only is it the most beautiful shade of pink, thanks to the mixed copper in between the gold, but it’s also incredibly durable. With neutral shades, this is a clear winner.
4. Hermès Palladium Hardware
‘All that glitters is not gold’, ever heard that? We have, and we agree! Whiter and brighter than plain old silver, the palladium hardware Hermès retails for higher than the GHW. Palladium-plated hardware is, in fact, such a prized possession that only limited-edition Birkin and Kelly bags feature it.
5. Hermès Permabrass Hardware
Prembrass is what you’d get if gold and palladium had a child. It’s best described as a champagne-type colour that works really well with your darks. It is, however, a custom style, so you’d find it a tad bit difficult to get your hands on it.
6. Ruthenium Hardware
Offered mostly on lizard skin, ruthenium is a grunge, almost masculine version of palladium Hermès hardware. It’s one of the most scattered elements on the Earth and is only found in the 2004 - 2007 ‘So Black’ collection.
7. Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) Hardware
This one’s more of an almost black metal that pairs well if you’re going for a monochromatic look. Previously being one of the most-wanted Kelly and Birkin collectables, PVD is now limited to the Midnight Faubourg Birkin.
8. Lacquer Hardware
You won’t find this in Birkin hardware, since it’s limited to Constance. We’re all too familiar with the iconic ‘H’ clasp, lacquer is used to protect the clasp’s colour and durability.
9. Diamond-Studded Hardware
We left the best for last: 18K white gold, detailed with bedazzled diamonds. It’s one of the most prized hardware (no surprise there) and is for women who are looking to go all out.
Keeping Your Hermès Hardware Happy
Before you go just yet, here are some nifty maintenance and cleaning tips you’ll thank us for:
- Polish your hardware using a dry, jewellery polishing cloth. No harsh chemicals, please!
- Moisture and hardware don’t pair well, stay weary of water and harsh temperatures.
- Leave the sticker on (or not, it’s your bag)
Bling On Your Hermès Hardware
Choosing your Hermès bag is a major milestone in any woman’s life, and Hermès hardware is simply the icing on top. Whether you’re team brushed gold or palladium, there’s something for every purse collector out there. You just need to know where to look. Speaking of which, Love Luxury has a wide selection of handbags to choose from. From Hermès Birkin to Lindy and Bolide, you’ll find everything. Happy shopping, ladies!
