Cashmere sweater folded

A folded cashmere sweater exemplifies textile luxury derived from the undercoat of Cashmere goats, traditionally sourced from Mongolia and the Himalayas.

About this subject

Cashmere is a high-value textile fiber obtained from the undercoat of Capra hircus goats, native to the mountainous regions of Central Asia, especially Mongolia, China, Iran and Afghanistan. Each goat produces only about 150 to 200 grams of cashmere per year, explaining its rarity and high cost. The collection is done manually during the spring molting season, when the soft hairs are combed or sheared. This fiber is renowned for being incredibly soft, lightweight and having excellent thermal insulation, being up to eight times warmer than common sheep wool. Its fibers measure between 14 and 19 microns in diameter, much finer than traditional wool, giving the characteristic smooth texture.

Cashmere production involves rigorous steps of sorting, washing and spinning. After collection, the coarse guard hairs are separated from the fine undercoat in a process called dehairing. The fiber is then washed to remove impurities and natural grease. The resulting yarn can be dyed and knitted or woven into fabrics. Mongolia accounts for a large share of global production, but Scotland is also famous for its high-quality cashmere, thanks to centuries of textile tradition.

To preserve a cashmere sweater, hand washing in cold water with mild soap is recommended, never wringing, and drying flat on a towel. Folding is essential to avoid deformation: never hang cashmere on hangers, as the weight of the garment can stretch the fibers. Store it folded in drawers or shelves, preferably in breathable fabric bags. These care practices extend the garment's lifespan, maintaining its softness and original shape.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes cashmere so expensive?

The high cost of cashmere is due to the scarcity of raw material, as each goat produces only 150 to 200 grams per year, and the manual collection and processing. Additionally, the fiber is extremely fine and soft, requiring specialized spinning and weaving techniques.

How can I identify genuine cashmere?

Check the label: it must indicate 100% cashmere. A simple burn test: cashmere burns slowly and smells like burnt hair, leaving ash that crumbles. The texture is also unmistakable: very soft and lightweight.

What are the basic care tips for a cashmere sweater?

Hand wash in cold water with mild soap, do not wring. Dry flat on a towel. Store folded, never hung, to avoid stretching. Avoid contact with perfumes and deodorants that can damage the fibers.