Pashmina wool is a very fine, soft, and luxurious type of wool derived specifically from the undercoat of the Changthangi goat, found in the high- altitude regions of the Himalayas. It is considered a variety of cashmere wool but is distinguished by the fiber diameter, which ranges from about 10 to 16 microns, making it finer and softer than typical cashmere fibers that range from 12 to 21 microns. Pashmina wool is used to create high-quality shawls, scarves, and wraps, often hand-spun and hand-woven due to its delicate nature. It has been prized for centuries for its warmth, softness, lightweight texture, and exclusivity. Key distinctions of pashmina compared to other wool or cashmere include:
- Originates from a specific breed of goat (Changthangi or Capra hircus) found in the Himalayas.
- Is softer, finer, and warmer than most other wool types.
- Traditionally hand-combed, hand-spun, and woven, making it a labor-intensive, artisanal product.
- Often blended with silk for additional strength and sheen (common blends are about 70% pashmina wool and 30% silk).
- Genuine pashmina is lightweight yet provides superior insulation.
- Considerable care is taken in processing to maintain its softness and quality.
In contrast, general wool comes from sheep and varies widely in texture and warmth. Sheep's wool can be coarser and scratchier, whereas pashmina is known for its softness even when worn directly against the skin without irritation. Cashmere wool is a broader category including fine undercoat fibers from various goats in the Himalayan region, with pashmina being a particularly fine and high-quality subset of cashmere wool. Authentic pashmina is also associated with traditional craftsmanship, mainly from Kashmir, Nepal, and surrounding Himalayan regions. It is considered a luxury fiber often referred to as "soft gold" or "diamond fiber" due to its rarity and exceptional quality.
