Cashmere is a wool that is desired by many fashion-conscious women because of its fine, strong,feather-light and silky texture. The word “cashmere” is derived from the spelling of Kashmir. It is simply known as cashmere but sometimes known as Pashmina, a fiber from the fur of a Kashmir goat. Kashmir goats are primarily raised in the high plateaus of Asia which include China, Mongolia and Tibet, India and China. Today, little is supplied by the Kashmir Province India, from which its name is derived. American herders have also joined the international cashmere production market in recent years.
Cashmere wool grows very densely on the goats and acts as a protective coat against the harsh winter weather in the high desert climates they inhabit. During the molting season the cashmere is harvested as the Kashmir goats shed their down or get sheared. The finest cashmere is produced from the underbelly and throat. The longer fibers come from the belly and throat areas where the the wool is especially soft. These fibers can be woven into sweaters, shawls, scarves, blazers, gloves, mufflers capes, dresses, and coats for men and women. It takes one goat four years to produce enough wool to make just one cashmere sweater. The natural color of Cashmere is white, gray and brown, but the wool can easily be dyed into other colors.
Cashmere produces natural light-weight insulation without bulk. The fibers are highly adaptable and can easily be woven into fine or thick yarns, and light to heavy-weight fabrics. A high moisture content allows insulation properties to change with the relative humidity in the air. This makes cashmere wool ideal for wearing in all types of climates.
Wearing a garment made of cashmere will not only make you look good but also be comfortable and affordable. The quality and feel of cashmere makes you long for more.