Condition Grading Explained

Every item Fancy Fairy sells is preloved, so condition is the single most important thing to understand before you buy. We grade every piece on a 10-point scale and show that grade at the top of every product page, along with a written description of the specific wear on that specific item.

This page explains exactly what each grade means, so you can shop with confidence and know what to expect before your order arrives.

Our grading scale

10/10 — Unused

The item is in unused and pristine condition. It has never been worn or carried. Where the piece is store-fresh, it may still carry its original protective wrapping.

9.9/10 — Like New

Excellent condition. Typically kept unused, or carried so lightly that any signs of use are minimal — for example hairline scratches on hardware, or a slight sign of use inside. Visually this is very close to new.

9.8/10 — Gently Used

Excellent condition with light, honest wear. Expect minor scratches on hardware and leather, minor rubbing on corners, or a slight sign of use to the interior. Worn, but well cared for.

9.5/10 — Well Used

Very good condition with visible wear. Expect minor rubbing on corners and slight scratches to corners, hardware or leather. Still a strong everyday piece, and usually where the best value sits.

9.0/10 — Used

Fair condition with clear signs of use, such as scratches on the surface. These pieces are priced accordingly and are best suited to buyers who prioritise value over cosmetic perfection.

Under 9

Our scale extends below 9.0, but we hold a high bar for what we list. In practice we do not currently offer items graded under 9.0.

How to read a product page

The numeric grade tells you the band. The sentence underneath it tells you what the wear actually is on that individual item — corners, hardware, interior, sole, or leather surface. Because every piece is one of a kind, that sentence is written for that item, not copied from a template.

The photographs form part of the description. We photograph front, back, hardware, interior, base and corners so you can assess condition yourself. If something is visible in the photos, treat it as part of the item's condition.

Measurements are listed on each product page and are estimates, intended as an indication of size only.

Condition and authenticity are separate things

A grade of 9.0 is not a comment on authenticity. Every item on this site — regardless of grade — is checked by at least two trained authenticators, one external and one internal, before it is listed. Anything found to be non-authentic is never listed. Every piece is covered by our guarantee: 100% authentic or your money back.

You can read the full process on our Authentication page.

Before you buy

We do not offer exchange or refund for change of mind, and we cannot exchange sized items such as rings, shoes and belts if the size does not fit. Please check the measurements and sizing carefully, and contact us before purchase if you would like more photographs or a closer look at any detail. We would much rather answer a question first than have a piece come back.

Frequently asked questions

What does 9.8/10 condition mean?

A 9.8/10 item is graded Gently Used. It is in excellent condition with light wear such as minor scratches on hardware and leather, minor rubbing on corners, or a slight sign of use inside.

Is a 9.5/10 bag still worth buying?

Yes. A 9.5/10 item is in very good condition with visible but modest wear, usually minor rubbing to corners and slight scratches. It is a genuinely usable everyday piece, and it is typically where the strongest value against retail sits.

Does a lower condition grade mean the item might not be authentic?

No. Condition and authenticity are assessed separately. Every item, at every grade, is authenticated by at least two trained authenticators before listing and is backed by a 100% authenticity guarantee.

Can I see more photos before I buy?

Yes. Every listing includes detailed photographs of the exterior, hardware, interior and corners, and the photos form part of the description. If you would like additional images or a closer look at a particular detail, contact us before purchasing and we will send them.

Can I return an item if I do not like the condition?

We do not offer refunds or exchanges for change of mind, so please read the condition grade, the written wear description and the photographs carefully before ordering. If an item is ever found not to be authentic, it is fully refunded under our authenticity guarantee.

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