Balam Snap Card Holder (Alligator Black)

Width: 10.3 cm

Height: 6.8 cm

Cut from wild-caught American alligator harvested under state population management, this leather carries the marks of an animal that lived outside captivity. Unlike farmed skins, which are raised for uniformity, wild gator retains natural variation in grain, scarring, and tone — the evidence of a real life lived. The belly scales offer a smoother, more graphic pattern, while the surrounding plates hold more texture and irregularity. No two cuts read the same, and the surface will age with handling rather than polish into perfection.

Horse leather is a revered material celebrated for its distinctive qualities, unmatched character, and ethical origins. As a byproduct of the food industry in Italy, this leather not only embodies the artistry of Italian craftsmanship but also reflects a commitment to sustainability by repurposing materials that would otherwise go to waste. This mindful approach ensures that every part of the hide is honored and utilized, adding depth to the story behind each piece.

Derived from the hind section of the hide, culatta (butt) is a specialized cut that includes the area just above the prized shell cordovan, along with parts of the belly and hind shanks. This unique combination creates a leather with a dense structure, tight grain, and a medium-to-firm temper, offering exceptional durability and versatility.

What sets culatta apart is its naturally irregular texture, which varies across the hide. On the reverse (flesh) side, subtle traces of shell cordovan bleed into the fibers, creating a chaotic yet captivating appearance. These grain irregularities give each piece made from culatta its own story, ensuring that no two items are ever the same. The natural beauty of this leather shines through its imperfections, showcasing a raw elegance that resonates deeply with aficionados of avant-garde fashion and timeless craftsmanship.

Thanks to its high oil content, culatta leather develops a rich patina over time, enhancing its natural luster and evolving with use. This transformation often results in a finish that appears almost metallic, making it a truly dynamic material.

We work hand-in-hand with tanneries in Italy to procure our leathers, sourcing only the finest quality materials the country has to offer.

This item features solid brass hardware, known for its strength and resistance to corrosion. The black finish will naturally wear over time, gradually revealing the rich brass beneath—creating a unique patina that reflects its journey with you. This transformation is an intentional characteristic of the material, adding depth and individuality to each piece.

Unless otherwise stated in the description, each piece is meticulously handmade to order, ensuring the highest quality and attention to detail. Please allow 7-14 business days for production before your order is shipped.

Each piece is a testament to the beauty of natural materials and artisanal craftsmanship, so no two are ever exactly alike. The hand-dyed treatment, vegetable tanned process and natural grain of the leather mean variations in texture and tone are to be expected—and celebrated. These characteristics are part of what makes your item truly one of a kind.