How to tell if a Hermès bag is authentic? [THE DEFINITIVE GUIDE]

Why it is important to know if a Hermès bag is authentic

At Bags and Tea, we know that investing in a Hermès bag is much more than treating yourself: it means adding a true fashion icon to your collection—one that can significantly increase in value over time. Models like the Birkin, Kelly, or Constance represent not only the pinnacle of luxury, but also an exquisite legacy of craftsmanship.

However, precisely because they’re so coveted and exclusive, these bags have become a magnet for counterfeiters who improve their replicas day by day. That’s why identifying whether a Hermès is authentic is vital for protecting your investment and avoiding disappointments or, worse, financial losses.

The market of counterfeits and how to avoid being scammed

The luxury counterfeit industry is constantly growing, generating billions of euros annually. Fake Hermès bags are sold at markets, on dubious websites, on social networks, and even on second-hand platforms that lack authenticity controls.

At Bags and Tea, we’ve seen all kinds of scam attempts—from basic knockoffs made of synthetic materials to highly advanced imitations that can fool even experienced buyers if they don’t know the key details. Our goal is to help you recognize a genuine bag so you can make a secure purchase and enjoy your new luxury treasure worry-free.

Consequences of buying a fake Hermès bag

Beyond the disappointment of discovering a fake, purchasing a non-authentic Hermès bag can have several negative consequences:

• The material quality will be much lower, with leathers that wear out or tear easily.
• The hardware and stitching may rust or come undone quickly, ruining the bag’s appearance.
• In many places, buying and selling counterfeits has legal consequences.
• A fake bag has no resale value, and trying to sell it unknowingly can harm your reputation.

How to know if a Hermès bag is original: key features

1. Logo and brand: first step to identify an authentic Hermès bag

Location and characteristics of the embossed stamp on an original bag

One of the first indicators of a Hermès bag’s authenticity is its embossed stamp (also called “stamping”), usually found under the flap (in Birkin or Kelly bags) or inside, depending on the model. This inscription reads “Hermès Paris Made in France.”

🔎 In an authentic bag:

• The embossing is precise and uniform, with no smudges or uneven pressure marks.
• The inscription is located in the correct spot, depending on the specific model.

⚠️ Warning signs in a counterfeit:

• A stamp that’s too deep, with excessive pressure marks or, conversely, too faint.
• Blurry lettering, poor alignment, or unclear typography.

Typography and correct spacing in the “Hermès Paris Made in France” inscription

Hermès typography is unmistakable and well-spaced.

🔎 In an authentic bag:

• The letters are perfectly aligned, and you can clearly see the grave accent on “Hermès.”
• The text is centered, not shifted to one side.

⚠️ Warning signs in a counterfeit:

• Distorted or disproportionate letters.
• Errors such as a misplaced accent or an apostrophe instead of the accent.

Differences between logos of original and counterfeit bags

The logo can vary slightly depending on the era and model, but it’s never sloppy or of poor quality.

🔎 In an authentic bag:

• The “Hermès” name is sharply and clearly engraved.
• The stamping is clean; no runny paint or cracked letters.

⚠️ Warning signs in a counterfeit:

• Faded dyes or prints.
• Letter misalignment or lack of uniformity.

2. Materials and leather quality: keys to know if a Hermès bag is fake

Types of leather used in authentic Hermès bags

Hermès works with various top-quality leathers, each with its own texture and characteristics:

• Togo: Soft grain, slightly rounded, scratch-resistant.
• Clemence: Larger grain, very soft feel, somewhat flexible drape.
• Epsom: Embossed leather with a very uniform grain, more rigid and easy to clean.
• Box: Smooth, shiny, and elegant leather, though more prone to scratches.
• Swift: Extremely fine grain, very soft to the touch.

⚠️ In counterfeits:

• They often use lower-quality leather or even synthetic materials.
• The texture may be overly shiny or too matte, lacking the natural look of genuine leather.

Natural variations in Hermès authentic materials

Each authentic hide has subtle variations in its grain; this irregularity is a good indicator of authenticity.

🔎 In an authentic bag:

• The grain isn’t completely uniform; you’ll see slight differences, revealing real leather.
• The leather maintains its consistency with use, without cracking prematurely.

⚠️ Warning signs in a counterfeit:

• Perfectly repetitive, printed-looking patterns.
• Leather that’s too soft or, conversely, rigid like plastic.

Differences in exotic leathers and how to identify them

Hermès also produces bags in exotic leathers (crocodile, lizard, ostrich, etc.). These hides have their own distinctive markings and patterns.

🔎 In an authentic bag:

• Scales or pores are well-defined and don’t show an odd repetitive pattern.
• The surface feels smooth, with no traces of glue or rough stitching.

⚠️ In copies:

• Scales are often inconsistent in size or shape.
• The finish can look excessively shiny or even flake off.

How to evaluate the smell, texture, and flexibility of authentic leather

An authentic Hermès bag has a natural leather aroma, whereas copies may smell of chemicals or plastic.

🔎 In an authentic bag:

• The feel is pleasant and firm but adapts organically with use.
• It doesn’t emit strong or artificial odors.

⚠️ In counterfeits:

• Synthetic or cheap glue smells.
• A rough texture or an overly glossy surface that looks like plastic.

3. Stitching and manufacturing details: differences between an original Hermès bag and a fake

How stitching looks in an authentic Hermès bag

Hermès is famous for its saddle stitch, done entirely by hand using two needles.

🔎 In an authentic bag:

• The stitches have a slight oblique slant and look remarkably even.
• The thread tension is perfect, with no loose threads or puckered sections.

Handmade vs. machine-made stitching in counterfeits

Many fakes use machine stitching to reduce costs and time.

⚠️ Warning signs in a counterfeit:

• Perfectly straight “industrial” looking stitches or, conversely, highly uneven ones.
• Traces of glue or marks on the backside of the seam.

Irregularities in stitching: sign of authenticity or fake

Ironically, small variations in stitching can be a good sign if they indicate a top-quality hand job.

🔎 In an authentic bag:

• A slight uniform slant to the stitches, with no obvious defects.
• Clean finishing, with no loose threads or visible knots.

4. Hardware and metallic finishes: how to know if a Hermès bag is original

Types of metals used in authentic Hermès bags

Hermès typically uses top-notch metals: solid brass, gold (in different alloys), or palladium, ensuring durability and constant shine.

🔎 In an authentic bag:

• The hardware has enough weight and feels solid to the touch.
• The finish is uniform, with no bubbles, scratches, or burrs.

Engravings and quality of hardware in an authentic Hermès

The metal pieces may have engravings such as “Hermès” or a serial code on the lock.

🔎 In an authentic bag:

• The letters are carefully engraved, aligned, and without spelling mistakes.
• The metal’s shine doesn’t wear off after moderate use.

How to spot fakes by examining clasps and hinges

The clasp on a Kelly or Birkin should open and close smoothly, without squeaking or rough rubbing.

⚠️ In counterfeits:

• Clasps often fit poorly or get stuck.
• Screws may be poorly adjusted or covered with metallic paint.

Common errors in hardware on fake bags

• The gold plating rubs off with a light touch.
• Engravings have uneven or poorly defined letters.
• Hardware is too light or sounds hollow.

5. Blind stamp or authenticity code: identifying a genuine Hermès bag

History and evolution of the Hermès blind stamp

Hermès uses a blind stamp to record the year of manufacture and the artisan who made the bag. This system has been in use for decades, evolving from single letters to alphanumeric combinations.

Location of the stamp according to the model and year of manufacture

The stamp’s position varies by model and season. On the Birkin, it usually appears on the interior of the strap; on a Kelly, under the flap or behind the strap.

🔎 In an authentic bag:

• The stamp is discreetly engraved, without disturbing the bag’s overall aesthetic.
• The letters and numbers are clearly and consistently visible.

Meaning of the symbols in exotic leathers

For exotic leathers (Niloticus crocodile, Porosus, lizard, etc.), Hermès adds small symbols indicating the hide’s origin.

⚠️ In copies:

• These symbols are often invented or placed in the wrong spots.
• They may look blurred or inconsistent with the claimed leather type.

Interpreting the artisan codes

In addition to the letter denoting the year of manufacture, the blind stamp includes the initials of the artisan who created the bag.

🔎 In an authentic bag: The code matches the production period and aligns with Hermès’s internal records.

6. Interior and lining: key differences between an original Hermès bag and a fake

Materials used in the lining of an authentic Hermès

The interior of the bag also reflects Hermès quality. They may use leathers like Chevre (goat), Swift, or even silk linings in specific models.

🔎 In an authentic bag: The lining is firm and feels as high-quality as the exterior, with no noticeable creases or sloppy stitching.

Differences with counterfeits (use of “eco-leather” or synthetics)

Fake bags commonly feature synthetic or low-quality “eco-leather” linings.

⚠️ In counterfeits:

• The interior may appear overly shiny or extremely rough.
• Internal stitching is often sloppier, with loose threads or poor finishing.

Stitching and internal details that can expose a fake

Always carefully inspect the base and interior pockets.

🔎 In an authentic bag: The internal stitching is as neat as the external stitching; there are no loose threads or glue residue.

7. Lock and keys: an essential detail to know if a Hermès bag is original

Characteristics of authentic lock and keys

Hermès’s iconic locks bear a serial number that should match the one on the keys.

🔎 In an authentic bag: The lock and keys are made of solid metal; they have a notable weight and impeccable engraving.

How to check that the number on the lock matches the keys

The number on the lock’s base must be identical to that on the keys.

⚠️ Warning signs in a counterfeit:

• Numbers that are erased, illegible, or simply don’t match.
• The lock or keys are too light or seem hollow.

Differences in weight and quality on fake bags

An authentic lock always has a recognizable density, whereas copies tend to be flimsier.

8. Dust bag and presentation: identifying a fake Hermès bag

Characteristics of the dust bag for an authentic Hermès

Hermès uses dust bags made of high-quality materials such as cotton or linen blends. The famous “Le Duc” logo (the carriage and horse) is usually printed very clearly.

🔎 In an authentic bag:

• The fabric is substantial, soft to the touch, and durable.
• The drawstring closure is well-finished, with no loose threads.

Differences between vintage and modern dust bags

Older dust bags may have been made from different fabric or had the logo embroidered instead of printed, but they still maintained high-quality standards.

⚠️ In counterfeits:

• The logo may look blurry or pixelated.
• The fabric is too thin or rough, with seams coming apart.

How to spot a fake by the quality of the “Le Duc” logo

Look at the precision of the lines and outlines in the design. A poorly defined logo is a major red flag.

9. Authenticity cards: how to know if a Hermès bag is fake

Why Hermès does not issue authenticity cards

Unlike other luxury brands, Hermès does not provide authenticity cards. Instead, the brand relies on its embossed stamp and internal codes (blind stamps) to verify authenticity.

⚠️ In counterfeits: They often include fake cards with holograms or fabricated seals to appear “authentic.”

How to spot counterfeits that include fake cards

If someone offers a Hermès accompanied by an alleged “official authenticity card,” be skeptical. It’s likely fake or a ploy to raise the copy’s price.

10. Delivery times and exclusivity in the purchase: a foolproof method to detect fakes

Why Hermès does not sell bags directly online

The iconic models (Birkin, Kelly, Constance) are not openly sold on the Hermès online store. The house prefers to maintain exclusivity in its physical boutiques and provide personalized service to loyal customers.

Waiting lists and exclusivity when buying a Hermès

It’s common to have a waiting list for certain models. The difficulty in obtaining a brand-new Birkin or Kelly in-store is part of its legend and value.

How counterfeiters try to imitate the purchasing process

Some counterfeiters invent backstories to add “credibility” to their sale, such as claiming to be VIP customers who obtained multiple bags and want to sell one quickly. If the price is too good to be true, it’s probably a scam.

Advanced methods to know if a Hermès bag is authentic

Expert evaluation and authentication services

Importance of professional verification

Though you can inspect all the points above, some fakes are highly sophisticated. At Bags and Tea, we have experts who scrutinize everything from stitching to hardware under a magnifying glass, helping you make the right decision.

Specialized companies in Hermès authentication

Besides our team, there are companies like Real Authentication or Entrupy that use specialized technology. However, not all have access to the same reference database or the same Hermès experience.

Use of artificial intelligence in authentication

AI can meticulously analyze skin patterns, stitching, and stamps in high-resolution photos. Still, the combination of technology plus expert human eyes is usually the best guarantee.

Verification services at official Hermès stores

In theory, Hermès staff in boutiques can spot a fake quickly. However, they may not always offer a formal authentication service to non-clients or they may reserve the right to examine the item.

Tips for buying a second-hand Hermès bag without being scammed

Precautions when buying from unofficial stores

When purchasing a Hermès bag second-hand, it’s crucial to use trustworthy platforms with rigorous authenticity checks.

• ✅ Recommended platforms and stores:
• Bags and Tea (our service) – Specialists in luxury bags in Spain, with verified authentication protocols.
• Vestiaire Collective – Features a verification system and validated sellers.
• The RealReal – Expert team in selling luxury items, based in the US.
• Rebag – Known for strict verification of Hermès and other top brands.
• Fashionphile – Experienced in high-end item resale.

• ⚠️ Where NOT to buy:
• - Sites with no reputation or offering “too-good-to-be-true” deals.
• - Markets, forums, or social networks where nobody verifies the bag’s origin.

Secure payment methods and authenticity certificates

Always choose traceable payment methods that offer buyer protection. Avoid cash transactions or irreversible transfers that leave you unprotected against fraud.

How to avoid fraud on resale platforms

• - Check the seller’s reputation and read other buyers’ feedback.
• - Request high-resolution photos of the bag, hardware, and blind stamp.
• - Be wary of sellers who refuse to show details or “are in a hurry” to sell.

Warning signs indicating a possible counterfeit

• - Prices far below the market value.
• - Lack of actual photos or generic catalog images.
• - Dubious documentation or receipts with spelling mistakes.

At Bags and Tea, we want you to enjoy your Hermès bag with the confidence of having made a safe investment. Therefore, we encourage you to apply all these tips and, if you still have doubts, seek professional help to authenticate the bag before completing your purchase. Remember: an authentic Hermès bag is synonymous with impeccable craftsmanship, dream materials, and unparalleled exclusivity. Don’t let an imitation ruin the experience of owning one of the most iconic objects of desire in the fashion world!