FITCH

This European pole-cat is a cousin to the American skunk, with the same unpleasant scent characteristic. Germany and Poland produce the most desirable Fitch pelts, which have long silky, evenly colored top hair and dense under the Fur. The largest skins however, come from the Baltic States; but they are not as of good quality as the pelts from Germany.

Siberia produces an unusually beautiful specimen known as white Fitch. The under Fur is white and the top hairs are sprinkled with black. The German Fitch is more yellow with brownish black guard hair.

The tiger Fitch or perwitsky is found in Poland, Russia and Rumania and derives its name from its tiger-like stripes.

The Fur on the rump of the Fitch is noticeably thicker than on the rest of the body. Furriers obtain luxurious effects by cutting the pelts in half and jointing the rumps of two skins, thus accentuating the black markings in the lower part of the belly. This is the usual procedure when working with the Russian type Fitch.

All Fitch Fur is soft in texture and gives remarkable service. Fitches are also dyed gray, Kolinsky or marten shades.