hermes logo inside bag | Hermes identification

The world of Hermès is one of unparalleled luxury, craftsmanship, and meticulous attention to detail. Owning an Hermès piece, be it a handbag, wallet, or scarf, is often seen as a symbol of status and discerning taste. However, navigating the intricate world of Hermès authentication and understanding the subtle nuances of their branding can be a daunting task. This article delves deep into the significance of the Hermès logo found inside their bags, exploring the various markings, stamps, and symbols that can reveal valuable information about the item’s origin, authenticity, and even its purchase history. We’ll particularly focus on the intriguing "S" stamp and its implications, along with other crucial elements for authenticating Hermès products.

The Iconic Hermès Logo: A Foundation of Authenticity

The primary Hermès logo, typically found heat-stamped inside the bag, is the cornerstone of authentication. This logo usually consists of the following elements:

* "Hermès Paris Made in France": This inscription, usually arranged in three lines, signifies the brand's origin and manufacturing location. The font used is carefully controlled and consistent across genuine Hermès products. Variations in font style, spacing, or alignment can be immediate red flags.

* The Hermès Carriage Logo: This iconic logo depicts a Duc carriage, drawn by a horse. It is a powerful symbol of the brand's history, which began as a harness and saddle maker in 1837. The details of the carriage logo, including the harness, wheels, and horse's musculature, are meticulously rendered.

* Leather Type Stamp (Optional): Some bags, particularly those made from exotic leathers like crocodile, alligator, or ostrich, will have a small stamp indicating the specific type of leather used. This stamp is often placed discreetly near the main logo or elsewhere within the bag.

Beyond the Main Logo: A Symphony of Stamps and Symbols

While the main Hermès logo is crucial, the presence and characteristics of other stamps and symbols within the bag offer further insights into its authenticity and history. These include:

* Date Stamps (Blind Stamps): Every Hermès bag has a blind stamp indicating the year it was manufactured. This stamp is typically a letter within a circle or square, depending on the period. The letter progresses alphabetically each year, with the shape around the letter changing periodically. For example, "A in a circle" indicates 1997, while "B in a square" indicates 1998. Knowing the correct sequence and shape for each year is essential for authentication.

* Craftsman's Stamp: A unique craftsman's stamp, usually consisting of one or two letters, identifies the artisan who created the bag. This stamp is a testament to the individual craftsmanship involved in producing each Hermès piece.

* "S" Stamp: The Sale Secret

Perhaps one of the most intriguing and often misunderstood stamps found inside an Hermès bag is the “S” stamp. This stamp is subtly placed, often near the main logo or in a less conspicuous area. The "S" stamp signifies that the item was purchased at a discounted rate, most likely during a private sale or staff sale.

It's important to note that the "S" stamp *does not* necessarily indicate that the bag is defective or of inferior quality. Hermès is renowned for its strict quality control, and even items sold at a discount meet high standards. The "S" designation simply reflects that the item was sold at a reduced price, possibly due to minor imperfections or being from a previous season's collection.

The Implications of an "S" Stamp:

* Authenticity: While an "S" stamp doesn't automatically guarantee authenticity, it's *more likely* to be found on a genuine Hermès item sold at a discounted price. Counterfeiters rarely bother with such subtle markings. However, it’s crucial to examine all other aspects of the bag to confirm its authenticity.

* Value: An "S" stamp can affect the resale value of an Hermès bag. While the bag is still a genuine Hermès product, its discounted purchase history may make it less desirable to some collectors and buyers.hermes logo inside bag

* Disclosure: When reselling an Hermès bag with an "S" stamp, it's crucial to be transparent with potential buyers about its history. Failure to disclose this information could damage your reputation as a seller.

Decoding Other Hermès Stamp Symbols:

Beyond the "S" stamp, other symbols may appear on an Hermès bag, each with its own specific meaning:

* Double Dots (..): These dots indicate that the item was a sample or prototype.

* Shooting Star: A very rare mark, the shooting star signifies that the item was a special order or a unique piece.

* Horseshoe Stamp (HSS): This stamp indicates that the item was a special order placed directly through Hermès. These bags are highly sought after by collectors.

The Hermès Wallet Logo and its Significance:

The principles of authentication that apply to Hermès handbags also apply to their wallets. The Hermès wallet logo, typically found inside the wallet, will also feature the "Hermès Paris Made in France" inscription and the carriage logo. The presence and quality of these elements are crucial for determining the wallet's authenticity. Additionally, look for the date stamp and craftsman's stamp, which can provide further information about the wallet's origin and production.