What is cashmere?
Cashmere is a natural fiber combed from the soft undercoat of cashmere goats. It is among the finest natural fibers available — typically 14 to 19 microns in diameter, compared to 20 to 35 microns for standard sheep's wool. That fineness is what makes it exceptionally soft while still providing strong insulation.
What animal does cashmere come from?
Cashmere comes from cashmere goats — primarily the Changthangi goat native to the high-altitude plateau regions spanning Mongolia, China, Afghanistan, Iran, and the Himalayan regions of India and Pakistan. The fiber is combed or sheared from the animal's soft undercoat during the spring molting season, when the goat naturally sheds its winter coat.
Where does cashmere come from?
Mongolia and China together account for the majority of global cashmere production. Afghanistan and Iran are also significant producers. Scotland and Italy are known for processing and finishing cashmere — spinning, dyeing, and knitting — but the raw fiber does not originate there. When a product is described as "Scottish cashmere" or "Italian cashmere," this refers to where the fiber was processed, not where the goats are.
Why is cashmere so expensive?
Supply is limited by biology. Each cashmere goat produces only 150 to 200 grams of usable fiber per year. A single sweater typically requires fiber from three to five goats. The combing is done by hand during a narrow seasonal window. The raw fiber then undergoes dehairment — a process that separates the fine undercoat from coarser guard hairs — which is labor-intensive and reduces total yield further. The combination of limited production per animal, manual harvesting, and processing requirements keeps cashmere prices consistently above wool.
Is cashmere wool?
Cashmere is sometimes called cashmere wool, but it is technically distinct from sheep's wool. Wool typically refers to fiber from sheep. Cashmere comes from goats. Both are natural protein fibers that share similar properties — soft, insulating, biodegradable — and similar care requirements. Cashmere is finer, lighter, and softer than most wool grades, which is reflected in its price.
What is cashmere made from?
Cashmere fiber is a natural protein fiber — specifically, it is made of keratin, the same protein found in human hair and wool. It is not manufactured or chemically processed. The fiber is combed from the goat, cleaned, dehaired, and spun into yarn. Nothing is added to make it soft — the softness is inherent to the fineness of the fiber.
How do you know if cashmere is real?
Genuine cashmere feels distinctly soft against skin, not scratchy. It is lightweight for how warm it feels. A burn test (burning a small fiber) produces an odor similar to burning hair, not melting plastic — but this is not practical for most consumers. The most reliable method is to buy from brands that disclose the fiber source and micron count, or hold certifications such as the Good Cashmere Standard or the Responsible Wool Standard equivalent for goat fiber. Very cheap "cashmere" is often blended with wool or lower-grade fiber.
How does cashmere compare to merino wool?
Both are fine natural fibers that are soft enough to wear against skin. Merino wool is more durable and easier to care for than cashmere — most merino is machine washable, while cashmere requires hand washing or dry cleaning. Merino is better for activewear and everyday use. Cashmere is softer and lighter, making it preferable for elevated knitwear and luxury garments. Merino is generally more affordable.
Is cashmere sustainable?
This depends on farming practices. The rapid growth of global cashmere demand has led to overgrazing in some regions, particularly Mongolia and Inner Mongolia, contributing to desertification. Well-managed small herds with traditional grazing practices have a much lower environmental impact. The Good Cashmere Standard and similar certification programs address herd management and land use. Buying from brands that disclose sourcing and hold certifications is the most reliable way to support responsible cashmere production.