Sea Wyvern Leather
A material with a complex reputation, sea wyvern leather is leather harvested from sea wyverns, a diverse clade of marine animals. Typically harvested from large, surface-living species, the skin can be prepared into an excellent water-proof leather. If done correctly, the leather holds up against even the harshest of storms, a great benefit to both sailors and those who explore terrestrial areas with heavy rainfall.
Aside from their functional use, sea wyvern leather is also popular for its striking coloration. While most leathers (depending on the method and materials used to prepare them) become a brownish color, and require dyeing to take on a different color, sea wyvern leather retains its natural coloration. Unlike typical sources of leather, sea wyverns have no fur and thus don't need to be de-haired to turn their skin to leather. In fact, stripping the outer layer(s) of their skin results in a loss of water-proofing, making their striking colors a sign that the leather was prepared correctly.
Since sea wyvern leather is harvested from various species of sea wyvern, colors and patterning differs greatly. Still, few can dye their leathers to match the natural patterns that occur on these animals, making them a spectacular vision. Despite this, however, they retain a low popularity, and are only used for those who need their waterproof qualities... and for good reason.
Properties
Material Characteristics
A leathery material. Good quality sea wyvern leather is supply and soft, like buckskin. Its outside, the side where the skin is left (mostly) untouched, should hold the coloring of the animal in life, and still resembles their smooth skin.
Physical & Chemical Properties
Sea wyvern leather has all the traits of typical leather, but adds one more to the mix: it's completely waterproof.
Origin & Source
Made from the skin of sea wyverns. Especially the wings are a good source of leather, as they consist of large stretches of skin used to being worked hard, whereas skin in other places might be thinner and softer.
History & Usage
Everyday use
Sea wyvern leather is used as a waterproof leather, by those who benefit most from a resistant waterproof material: sailors and those who spent much time on the water, but also terrestrial explorers who need to dive into rainforests or other areas with heavy storms or severe rainfall. It's unique (and off-putting) smell tends to dissuade many, however, limiting its use to those who have no other options.
Type
Biomaterial
Odor
Uniquely pungent; like a dead fish stranded on the beach while dry, and some awful combination of wet dog and submerged rot when wet
Taste
Leathery
Color
Variable
Common State
Solid
Related Species
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