All about Pashmina
One of the fine cashmere wool, Pashmina is also known as ‘Pashm’ comes from Kashmir as well as some parts of Nepal. The word pashmina is been derived from the Persian word ‘Pashmineh’, that means made of pashm that is a wool in Persian. This name was given by the Iranians who came to Kashmir via Ladakh route. The wool comes from a pashmina goat, a special breed to an indigenous goat that comes from high altitude regions of Nepal and India.
How Pashmina differ with other wools?
Pashmina is been derived from the mountain sheep. The main difference between the pashmina and other wool is the diameter of the fiber. The pashmina fibers are thinner and finer as compared to others and are therefore ideal for making lightweight apparels like pashmina shawl, pashmina full hand gloves, pashmina long & short scarf, pashmina sweater, and many more products.
How to Identity the Pashmina Product? Let’s consider if you are taking a pashmina shawl. It is important to know whether it is made up of pashmina. How will you identify with the product?
Here are some of the tests you can carry out to check with the authenticity of the product before you actually invest in the product.
- Check the appearance of the shawl. The pashmina shall bear a matte appearance
- The most important to check is the diameter. The authentic manufacturer will surely mention the diameters of the fiber as the best available are 14-15.5 microns. The lower the micron, the lighter & softer will be the product.
- Pure Pashmina Shawl will be woven on a handloom. Hold the shawl against the light and you will see the irregular weave
- One of the easiest ways is rubbing the stuff and you will know how pure it is. When you rub them it creates static electricity. When you rub, if you hear the spark acrylic & polyester is used and if it attracts tiny objects plastic is been used.
- Other easiest possible thing to do – the pilling test. There is some pilling taken with the product. If the product is 100% fabric and you found a lot of pilling after you then you have chosen the right product else the product is fake
- Check if anything is glued on the pashmina product. Glue does not stand for long on the pashmina product. So if there is any sticker on the product then it is a fake product.
How to Maintain the Pashmina Product?
If taken proper care, the pashmina products last for years. With each wash, it gets softer and more luxurious and should be preferably dry cleaned. It is good to wash it with the help of woolen fabric detergent. After washing, leave it on a flat surface to dry.
Best Himalaya offers with the varied collection of pashmina products pashmina round neck top, pashmina high, low style outer etc. Along with this we also offer with other products like the singing bowl, prayer flags, bags, tingsha cymbals, jewelry, and other ritual items.
Pashmina is not just a fabric; it's a symbol of luxury and comfort. This unique wool, known for its softness and warmth, comes from the undercoat of the Capra Hircus goat, native to the Himalayan regions. Because of its exclusivity and intricate crafting process, Pashmina has been cherished for centuries. In this blog, we’ll delve into the origin, the crafting process, and why Pashmina stands out as a premium wool in the market today.
The origin of Pashmina can be traced back to the high-altitude regions of Ladakh and Tibet. Here, the Capra Hircus goats thrive in cold conditions, producing a fine undercoat that becomes Pashmina wool. Because of the harsh climate, these goats develop a soft and insulating layer - which is then hand-combed during molting season, sparing the animal from any harm. This age-old tradition ensures that Pashmina wool maintains its authenticity and quality.
Crafting Pashmina is an art form in itself. Once collected, the raw wool undergoes a meticulous process. It is cleaned, carded, and spun into fine threads manually. The weaving is mostly done on traditional looms, where skilled artisans create beautiful shawls, scarves, and wraps. Every piece of Pashmina fabric is a testament to the immense skill and patience of the craftsmen, making each item unique and cherished worldwide.
Why is Pashmina so special? It’s the combination of its natural origin and the craftsmanship involved. Pashmina wool is incredibly soft, lightweight, yet remarkably warm. It’s often compared to cashmere, but Pashmina is finer, making it more luxurious. Moreover, Pashmina is breathable and hypoallergenic, which adds to its comfort. Owning a Pashmina piece is not just about having a garment but experiencing a piece of cultural heritage and superior artistry.
In the realm of fashion, Pashmina occupies a special place. Pashmina shawls and scarves are versatile; they can be worn throughout the year, adding elegance to any outfit. Many fashion houses incorporate Pashmina in their collections because of its texture and timeless appeal. Additionally, Pashmina has eco-friendly attributes, as it involves sustainable farming and crafting practices that reflect a respect for nature and tradition.
To ensure the authenticity of Pashmina, always check for certification and buy from reputable sources. Because of its value, there are many imitations in the market. Genuine Pashmina is often labeled as 'Cashmere Pashmina' and typically comes with a higher price tag due to its craftsmanship. When cared for properly, which includes gentle washing and careful storage, Pashmina items can last for generations, becoming heirloom pieces handed down through families.
In conclusion, the story of Pashmina is one of tradition, luxury, and unparalleled craftsmanship. Understanding the effort and artistry that go into producing this unique wool makes it even more special. So, the next time you wrap yourself in a Pashmina shawl, remember the journey it has taken from the Himalayan highlands to your shoulders - a journey steeped in history, culture, and timeless elegance.