ERMINE

The ermine, a slim little creature shaped like a boa, is, like the sable, the aristocrat of the weasel family. He got his name from Armenia, a Fur center in the time of Homer. But inevitably he is associated with Russia.

The most celebrated Fur in history, the exquisite ermine has long graced the robes of state with its rare whiteness. It has been the symbol of royalty and the delight of lovely ladies. Today the wearing is not restricted to royalty but it still adds its elegance to coronation robes and the great affairs of court and church.

The ermine takes its color from its surroundings – in cold weather it is snow white. As warm weather advances it changes from a slight yellow cast to a grayish brown and finally achieves a deep shade of brown. Some skins found in warmer climates never turn white, while the skins from the colder regions of Russia and Siberia remain white throughout the entire year. “Summer ermine is really not ermine but weasels from Northern United States. Those who wear ermine in its white state should keep it away from sunlight as much as possible. It is well to wrap it in blue paper or cloth when not being worn.

Naturally anything so valuable deserves the best of care so be sure to have your ermine cleaned by reputable Furrier when it becomes soiled. Rabbit is sometimes used to imitate ermine, and while it has fashion value, the imitation is feeble.