I was going to say no animals were killed in the making of my shoes, but they are leather so that rules out that excuse for me. As for being up scale, I do have a very expensive taste, but I am also very picky about what I buy. Alligators just aren't on my list of must haves lol NOW diamonds are another matter all together. A girl can never have too many diamonds, and they go with everything, even the jeans, T-shirt and tennis shoes.