Privé Porter The Ultimate Guide to Hermès Hardware: Every Finish Explained
When it comes to Hermès, luxury lives in the fine print—and nothing proves that more than the hardware. While the leather and craftsmanship of a Birkin or Kelly bag are iconic, the hardware is what defines its final character, rarity, and investment potential.
At Privé Porter, the world’s largest curated source of store-fresh Hermès bags, we understand the nuances that make certain hardware finishes more sought-after than others. This comprehensive guide breaks down every major Hermès hardware option—and includes links to shop authenticated inventory with each.
1. Gold Hardware (GHW)
The gold standard. Hermès uses 18k gold-plated hardware for this timeless finish. It’s a mainstay for classic collectors and adds warmth to leathers like Noir, Etoupe, Rouge H, and Gold.
🔗 Shop Gold Hardware Birkins & Kellys
2. Palladium Hardware (PHW)
Cool-toned, sleek, and resistant to tarnish. Palladium is a platinum-family metal that gives any Birkin or Kelly a clean, modern vibe. It pairs well with tones like Etain, Blue Nuit, and Gris Mouette.
🔗 Explore Palladium Hardware Styles
3. Brushed Hardware (Gold or Palladium)
Seen mostly on HSS (Horseshoe Stamp) custom orders, brushed finishes offer a softer, matte sheen for an understated look. They’re especially prized by clients seeking minimalism with elegance.
Brushed Gold
Brushed Palladium
4. Permabrass Hardware
A unique champagne-gold finish that walks the line between gold and silver. Permabrass adds versatility to leathers like Raisin, Vert Olive, or Craie.
5. Rose Gold Hardware
Feminine and romantic, rose gold hardware is frequently chosen for special orders. It complements neutral and pastel tones, such as Gris Tourterelle, Mushroom, or Rose Sakura.
6. So Black Hardware (PVD Coated)
An icon. The So Black collection, launched under Jean Paul Gaultier, features all-black PVD-coated hardware. These are among the most collectible Hermès bags ever made—and Privé Porter has sold more So Black Birkins than anyone in the world.
🔗 Browse So Black Birkins & Kellys
7. Ruthenium Hardware
A darker, more masculine gray tone often seen on HACs or seasonal men’s styles. Ruthenium is subtle yet powerful—perfect for collectors who prefer edge over shine.
8. Electrum Hardware
One of the newest Hermès finishes, Electrum is inspired by the ancient gold-silver alloy. It walks the fine line between warmth and cool tones, and adds a contemporary touch to modern designs.
🔗 Shop New Arrivals with Electrum
9. Guilloché Hardware
True haute joaillerie. Featuring engraved geometric detailing, Guilloché hardware is a rarefied finish found only on limited-edition Kellys and HSS custom orders. It’s the type of detail Privé Porter clients routinely seek for ultra-rare builds.
10. Diamond Hardware
The pinnacle of Hermès. Set with genuine diamonds in 18k gold, this finish appears almost exclusively on exotic Himalaya Birkins and Kellys. These “grail bags” command six to seven figures—and Privé Porter is one of the only resellers trusted to carry them.
Hardware isn’t just a detail—it’s the DNA of an Hermès bag’s personality. Whether you’re looking to invest in a classic Gold GHW Birkin or hunting for an ultra-rare Diamond Himalaya Kelly, Privé Porter is your direct line to the finest examples in the world.
Why Buy from Privé Porter?
Privé Porter offers the largest selection of store-fresh, never-carried Hermès bags in the world. Every piece is verified for authenticity, curated for condition, and available immediately—no waitlists, no games.
🔗 Browse All Hermès Birkins & Kellys
📞 Have questions? Chat with a Hermès expert or request sourcing for your dream hardware + leather combination.