What is cashmere and where does it come from?
Table of contents
- Where does cashmere come from?
- Where does the best cashmere come from?
- What is cashmere?
- Is cashmere ethical?
About cashmere
- What is cashmere and where does it come from?
- Our sustainable supply chain
- What is real cashmere?
- Why is cashmere so expensive?
- Cashmere qualities guide
- Cashmere vs Cotton, Wool, and Other Fabrics
- Laundry symbols guide
You may know cashmere as one of the softest and most delicate materials on earth. But how much do you actually know about it? Where does cashmere come from? How to define cashmere?
If you’re looking for an answer to those and many more questions about this luxurious fabric, you’ve come to the right place!
As always, let’s start from the beginning.
Where Does Cashmere Come From
Cashmere is a material produced by a specific family of goats. These goats originate from the Kashmir region of the Himalayan. As such, they’re commonly referred to as the Cashmere, or Kashmir, goats.
But what is so special about them? The cashmere goats have a very soft undercoat. It’s these animals’ way of thermal regulation, protecting them from large temperature jumps between night and day.
During winter, when more heating is required, the goat’s outer hair grows stiff and straight. The hair density is especially high on their necks. And as is the case with many animals, cashmere goats also have a shedding season. Each spring and summer, these adorable animals begin to shed their winter hair. And that is the perfect time to harvest cashmere.
Where Does the Best Cashmere Come From
Right now, there are many different types of cashmere goats all around the world. But not all goats are created equal. There are also many variables like diet and environment that impact fibre quality. Some regions, like Inner Mongolia, are regarded as ideal, and cashmere produced there is held in the highest regard.
What is Cashmere
Although we briefly answered that question already, there are still some things that we should mention. Just mentioning that cashmere is a material harvested from cashmere goats is not enough. So let’s dive a bit deeper into this wonderful material and answer the question: what is cashmere wool?
Cashmere is a very fine material. And many of its qualities come from the thickness of cashmere fibres. A human hair is on average 50 microns in diameter. Meanwhile, cashmere ranges from about 14 to 30 microns in diameter. And the thinner it is, the higher its quality.
Similarly, the length of the fibres also matters greatly. The longer they are, the better, as you will experience less pilling and fluffing. Just remember that cashmere pilling is a natural process.
Raw cashmere harvested from goats undergoes a thorough preparation process before it can be woven into exquisite garments. It is first separated into high and low-quality fibers, but it also needs to be spun into yarns, washed, and potentially dyed before being used as a material to weave clothes out of.
Cashmere in clothing is a perfect material as it boasts some stunning features. But to help it live longer you should care for it deeply. Fortunately, we have created a full guide on how to care for cashmere. From us to all other cashmere lovers.
Is Cashmere Ethical
There are many questions that are often raised when discussing cashmere. And as with everything, there are many nuances. We cannot vouch for every single manufacturer, but we have partnered with those, that are responsible, sustainable, and ethical.
This means that our products come from goat farmers that care for animal welfare. Where no goat dies for cashmere, and no harm is inflicted upon these cute animals.
Learn More About Cashmere
Even though we explained a lot, there is still much more to talk about when it comes to cashmere. We recommend you check out our other articles about cashmere. Do so and soon you’ll also be a cashmere expert.