How to Authenticate a Hermès Constance Bag
When checking if a Hermès Constance bag is real, focus on these key details:
1. Leather Quality
Authentic: Usually made from Epsom leather, which is firm with a fine, even grain. It feels smooth, has rich color, and a natural sheen.
Fake: The leather may look flat, lack texture, and have dull or uneven coloring.
Tip: Check the texture, grain, and shine of the leather as a first step.
2. Logo Embossing
Authentic: The logo is cleanly embossed with sharp, even lettering and no smudging.
Fake: The font may look uneven, blurry, or poorly pressed.
Tip: Look closely at the logo’s clarity and how evenly it's stamped.
3. Hardware Quality
Authentic: Made of brass with a gold or palladium finish, hand-polished for a smooth, flawless surface.
Fake: The hardware may have uneven plating, inconsistent color, or visible imperfections.
Tip: Check for smooth, high-quality metal with no rough spots or discoloration.
4. Smell Test
Authentic: Has a light, pleasant leather scent with a hint of Hermès’ signature treatment.
Fake: May have a strong chemical or plastic-like odor.
Tip: Smell the interior—genuine bags won’t have a harsh chemical scent.
5. Stitching Quality
Authentic: Features precise diagonal stitching with evenly spaced and straight stitches.
Fake: Stitches may be uneven, crooked, or poorly done.
Tip: Look at the stitching closely to see if it’s consistent and neat.
6. Date Stamp
Authentic: A discreetly embossed date code inside the bag that indicates the production year.
Fake: May have a missing, misplaced, or incorrectly shaped stamp.
Tip: Verify the stamp’s location and how well it’s embossed.
7. Dust Bag
Authentic: Made of beige or orange herringbone fabric, with a dark brown Hermès logo and a matching drawstring.
Fake: The dust bag may be a different color, material, or have incorrect logo details.
Tip: Compare the dust bag’s fabric, color, and print with an authentic one.
Final Advice
Luxury authentication expert Koyaana Redstar highlights two additional signs of authenticity: genuine Hermès Constance bags have hardware with a noticeable weight and leather with a distinct scent. Before purchasing, carefully inspect all these details to make sure you’re getting the real thing.