Stingray Leather (Shagreen): The Toughest Exotic Surface
Stingray leather looks like it's covered in tiny glass beads. That surface makes it one of the toughest leathers there is.
Stingray at a glance
| Comes from | Stingrays |
|---|---|
| Feel | Hard, beaded, pebble-like surface |
| Weight | Light |
| Durability | ●●●●● |
| Break-in | None |
| Best for | Wallets, watch straps, cases, handles |
| At White Buraq | Not currently offered |
What is stingray leather?
Stingray leather is made from the skin of stingrays, usually a by-product of fishing in Southeast Asia. Its surface is covered with tiny, hard calcified nodules. Many skins have a pale, star-shaped patch in the centre, sometimes called the "eye" or "crown". Historically it was called shagreen or galuchat, and in Japan it was wrapped around sword handles for grip.
How stingray leather looks and feels
The beads can be left round and glossy, or sanded flat and polished for a smoother, marbled look. It feels hard and pebbly and is very resistant to scratches, cuts and water.
Pros and cons
- Pros: extremely hard-wearing, scratch and water resistant, unique look, needs little care.
- Cons: hard and inflexible, so unsuitable for garments; difficult to sew and cut; expensive.
What stingray leather is best for
Wallets, card holders, watch straps, jewellery boxes, phone cases and handles.
How to care for stingray leather
Wipe it with a damp cloth. It needs very little conditioning, but keep the stitched edges clean and dry.
Stingray at White Buraq
We don't make stingray products. For exotic jackets, see our python and crocodile and alligator collections.
Frequently asked questions
What is shagreen?
A traditional name for stingray (and sometimes shark) skin with a beaded surface.
Is stingray leather durable?
Very. Its calcified beads make it highly resistant to scratches, cuts and water.
Can you make a jacket from stingray?
Not practically. The surface is too hard and inflexible for garments.
Related leather types
- Ostrich: Ostrich leather is instantly recognisable by its raised quill bumps.
- Crocodile: Crocodile leather is one of the most prized leathers in the world.
- Kangaroo: Kangaroo leather is thin, light and very strong for its weight.
- Python: Python leather has a striking scale pattern and a soft, flexible feel.
Explore all 30 leathers in our leather types guide, see our leather care guide, or contact us for help choosing a jacket.