Cashmere wool is shorn from the goats, and the best quality fibers are collected by combing the fleece. Typically, a goat will produce approximately six ounces of cashmere wool per year, which is then washed, dyed, and spun into yarn. It is a delicate process to treat the cashmere with the necessary reverence to retain its sought-after quality. A cashmere garment can be upwards of twenty times the price of a comparable wool option based on the luxurious fiber.
Cashmere wool’s insulation properties are unbeatable in the texture softness category. It is incredibly lightweight while being warmer than traditional wool, which makes it the top preferred natural insulator for colder weather. It’s an excellent material for items like sweaters, blankets, and even hats and gloves. The texture of cashmere is like no other fiber, a delightful sensation on bare skin. The sumptuousness of cashmere makes it ideal for loungewear and leisurewear. The smoothness of cashmere wool also means that it is less irritating when worn close to the skin.
Cashmere wool’s quality is based on micron count, and the smaller the micron count, the finer and more valuable the wool. The micron count measures the diameter of individual fibers in microns, and the smaller the number, the softer the wool. Cashmere wool’s micron count ranges from about 14 to 19 microns, which makes it some of the softest fiber available. Cashmere’s luxurious feel is because of these fine-diameter fibers. When spun together, they make a delicate, light-weight, and incomparably soft material.
It is no secret that cashmere wool is an exclusive material, and some of the best cashmere wool comes from goats in Mongolia. Mongolian goats are known for having the finest cashmere fibers, where winters can reach as low as – 40 degrees Celsius. These low temperatures prompt the cashmere goats to grow longer, finer, and warmer fibers to survive the brutal cold. This is why Mongolian cashmere is considered to be the best quality in the world. The harsh weather conditions required for the production of cashmere wool also make its production environmentally friendly, making it an increasingly popular choice for buyers.
To keep your cashmere garments in excellent condition requires some attention to care. It is recommended to wash cashmere by hand with cool or lukewarm water and a mild detergent. Avoid the use of fabric softener, which can harm the fibers. Lay the garment flat to dry and never fold when damp by putting on hangers or wringing water from the garment. Doing so can cause the fiber to become distorted or stretched, reducing its overall quality.
Cashmere wool is one of the world’s most luxurious materials. Its quality fibers are incredibly soft and the best at retaining body heat. This material is ideal, particularly for winter clothing, but also for goods for relaxing and staying comfortable. Cashmere wool is a true marvel of nature, and we must appreciate the care and attention that goes into crafting and maintaining its quality.