Kashmir – Benefits and uses

Cashmere is a desired yarn for many fashion-conscious women due to its fine, strong, feather-light and silky texture. The word “Kashmir” is derived from the spelling of Kashmir. It is known simply as cashmere, but is sometimes referred to as pashmina, a fiber from the fur of a Kashmir goat. Kashmir goats are raised primarily in the high plateaus of Asia, which include China, Mongolia and Tibet, India, and China. Today, the Indian Province of Kashmir, from which its name is derived, supplies little. American herders have also joined the international market for cashmere production in recent years.

Cashmere wool grows very densely on goats and acts as a protective layer against harsh winter weather in the desert climates they inhabit. During the shedding season, cashmere is harvested when the Kashmir goats lose their down or are sheared. The finest cashmere is produced from the lower belly and throat. The longest fibers come from the belly and throat areas where the wool is especially soft. These fibers can be woven into men’s and women’s sweaters, shawls, scarves, jackets, gloves, scarves, capes, dresses, and coats. It takes a goat four years to produce enough wool to make a single cashmere sweater. Cashmere’s natural color is white, gray and brown, but the wool can easily be dyed in other colors.

Cashmere produces a natural lightweight insulation without bulk. The fibers are highly conformable and can be easily woven into fine or coarse yarns and light to heavy fabrics. A high moisture content allows the properties of the insulation to change with the relative humidity of the air. This makes cashmere wool ideal for use in all types of weather.

Wearing a garment made of cashmere will not only make you look good but it will also be comfortable and economical. The quality and feel of cashmere makes you want more.