Cashmere
Growing Demand
Cashmere originated in the Kashmir Province of India, from which the fabric derived its name. Today's major suppliers are in China, Mongolia, and Tibet. Because the goats from which cashmere fibers are taken live primarily in the high plateaus of Asia, they need a coat of hair that will protect them from extreme cold. Cashmere fibers are highly adaptable and can be fashioned into thin or thick garments, making them suitable for all climates. While cashmere's natural colors are gray, brown, and white, the fibers can be dyed as easily as wool and made into many different colored sweaters, hats, gloves, and scarves. According to legend, Napoleon created a demand for cashmere shawls when he gave his second wife 17 of them. Demand for this beautiful fabric has only increased since.
Production
Cashmere fibers are collected from goats during their molting season, which typically happens over several weeks each spring. Only the soft undercoat is used, while the straighter and coarser outer hairs are discarded. It takes each of these goats four years to produce enough cashmere to make one sweater. The production process is lengthy, and much of it is done by hand -- contributing to the high price of cashmere. Manufacturers may try to cut corners, so consumers should be on the lookout for fraudulent or deceptive practices. Only garments labeled with actual fiber percentages, as opposed to "cashmere feel" or "cashmere blend," should be considered real cashmere.
Fine Garments
Cashmere is most often thought of in terms of sweaters and shawls. There are other uses for it as well: warm undergarments as well as soft and luxurious accessories like hats, gloves, and scarves can be made of cashmere. Even socks and bathrobes can be made of cashmere. Cozy, comfortable and costly – all these descriptions apply to cashmere. When you want to wrap up in one of the softest and finest fabrics available, cashmere is it.
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