History

The name cashmere comes from the Kashmir province of India, where the cashmere products of this area first attracted the attention of Europeans in the early 1800s.

Cashmere was originally from the down undercoat of the Asiatic goat (Capra hircus laniger). It is now from 68 breeds of  goats in 12 countries, which are classified as cashmere because of a fiber diameter of under 19 microns.

During molting season in the spring,  the goats have their fine underdown hairs combed or sheared and separated from the coarse outer hairs.

 Facts

- It takes one cashmere goat four years to produce one sweater.

- Cashmere comes in gray, brown, and white.

- Cashmere absorbs water faster than wool.

- The diameter of the yarn must be under 19 microns to be classfied as cashmere.

- Cashmere is eight times warmer than sheep's wool.

- Cashmere goats do not need to be killed for cashmere production. They are combed in China and Mongolia and sheared for their hair in Iran, Afghanistan, New Zealand, and Australia.

- Cashmere is produced through five processes: Collecting, Sorting/Scouring, Dehairing, Spinning, and Weaving/Knitting.

 Cashmere Care

- Cashmere must be handwashed with cold water using a fine washable soap. Rinse until water runs clear. Lay flat to dry, do not hang on hangers.

- When dry, press with a damp cloth and cool iron.

- Treat stains as quickly as possible. Rinse immediately with cold water.

- If garments get wet, allow them to dry away from direct heat, then brush.

- Cashmere should only be washed after 6-7 wearings.

- Store cashmere in a cedar chest and/or plastic bags in a cool, dry place to avoid moths.

- Gently pull or cut off pilling.