From which sheep does cashmere wool come? The most common mistakes

Cashmere is a precious material loved by many for its softness and winter warmth. However, many people are confused about its origin. In this article, we will explore in detail the most common questions: which animals produce cashmere? And is cashmere really wool?

Sheep or Goat: which animal does Cashmere come from?

One of the most common beliefs about cashmere is that it comes from sheep, but that is not the case.

Cashmere does not come from the sheep's coat, but from the undercoat of the hircus goats.

The hircus goats are native to Central Asia and some regions of the Himalayas. The name cashmere comes from the Kashmir region of India, from where the fiber was exported to Europe since the early 1800s.  

Is Cashmere a type of Wool?

Many mistakenly believe that cashmere is simply a type of wool, but in reality, there are significant differences between the two yarns.

The wool, which comes from shearing sheep, is made up of keratin fibers found both in the outer and inner parts of the sheep's fleece. Wool is well known for being durable and suitable for a wide range of uses, from clothing to furnishings. However, wool fibers tend to be thicker and can feel coarse or itchy to some people.

Cashmere is a natural yarn, known for its extreme softness and lightness. This soft fiber comes from the undercoat of hircus goats and is significantly finer than wool. Cashmere fibers are thin, smooth, and incredibly warm. This combination of qualities makes it an ideal material for luxury clothing such as sweaters, scarves, and blankets.

Common Beliefs about Cashmere

Besides misconceptions about its origin and composition, there are some common ideas about cashmere.

1. Cashmere is inaccessible: sometimes cashmere is synonymous with luxury clothing, but there are affordable options. For example, you can buy sweaters made from regenerated cashmere or blends of natural yarns that do not contain 100% cashmere but still offer its distinctive characteristics, allowing you to enjoy all its benefits.

2. Cashmere is too delicate: cashmere is certainly delicate, but with proper care, it can last a long time. Follow the advice in our blog to best preserve and wash your sweater.

3. Cashmere is only suitable for winter: cashmere is known for its warmth, but there are lightweight garments ideal for the mid-seasons. Discover our garments in merino wool, cashmere, and silk blends to enjoy the comfort of cashmere all year round.