Cashmere. A word that immediately evokes softness, refinement, that weightless warmth only a handful of materials in the world can offer. But do you really know what cashmere is, where it comes from, and why some pieces last decades while others lose shape after one season?
What Exactly Is Cashmere?
Cashmere is a natural fiber harvested from the undercoat of the cashmere goat, native to the high plateaus of Mongolia and Kashmir. Each goat produces only about 150 grams of down per year. For one coat, the harvest of four to six goats is needed.
Quality depends on three factors: fiber length, fineness, and sorting purity. Long fibers (over 38mm) resist pilling better. Exceptional cashmere measures 14-15 microns, versus 18-20 for classic merino wool.
How to Care for Cashmere
Hand wash in cold water with mild detergent. Dry flat, never hung. Protect from moths with cedar or lavender sachets. And it will last twenty years.