The world's finest cashmere originates from the remote highlands of Mongolia and the Kashmir region, where extreme temperature variations create perfect conditions for cashmere goats to develop their precious undercoat. These hardy animals naturally grow an incredibly soft protective layer beneath their coarse outer hair, adapting to winters that can reach -40°F.
As a French luxury authority, Yves Salomon sources only premium cashmere from these legendary regions, where generations of skilled herders have perfected their craft. Our meticulous selection process ensures each piece in our collection delivers exceptional insulation properties with the unparalleled natural softness that makes this precious material so coveted worldwide.
Cashmere, the luxurious fabric prized for its exceptional softness and warmth, originates exclusively from a specific animal with unique biological characteristics. Understanding the true source of this premium material helps appreciate its rarity and value in the world of fine textiles.
The cashmere goat, scientifically known as Capra hircus, is the sole producer of genuine cashmere fibers. These remarkable animals possess a distinctive dual coat system—a coarse protective outer layer and an extraordinarily soft undercoat. This precious undercoat develops as a natural adaptation to extreme climates, where temperatures can plummet to -40°F in regions like Mongolia, Tibet, and the Himalayan highlands.
What makes cashmere goats truly special is the fineness of their undercoat fibers, measuring just 14-19 microns in diameter (human hair, by comparison, measures about 75 microns). During harsh winter months, these goats grow this insulating layer, which is naturally shed when spring arrives.
Skilled herders carefully harvest these cashmere fibers through meticulous combing, yielding only 150-200 grams of usable soft undercoat per animal annually—explaining why genuine cashmere commands premium prices.
Several other animals produce fine wool that is sometimes mistaken for cashmere or marketed with similar terminology, leading to confusion among consumers.
Pashmina goats (Changthangi breed) are closely related to cashmere goats but represent a specific regional variety found primarily in the high-altitude Changthangi plateau. While pashmina is technically a type of cashmere, it's distinguished by its ultra-fine fibers (12-14 microns) and is harvested exclusively from goats living at elevations above 4,000 meters in Kashmir and Tibet.
Sheep produce regular wool that is fundamentally different from cashmere—their fibers are thicker, less dense, and often lack the exceptional softness characteristic of cashmere. Alpacas, native to South America, produce a fine fiber that rivals cashmere in softness but has different properties, including hollow fiber cores that provide excellent insulation with a distinct silky feel.
For authentic luxury, only the specialized undercoat of the cashmere goat delivers the legendary softness and warmth that defines this exceptional material.
The transformation of cashmere from the soft undercoat of mountain goats to luxurious garments is a meticulous process that combines centuries-old traditions with modern techniques. This journey through the grasslands of Mongolia and Inner Mongolia to the refined workshops of Europe showcases the exceptional care taken in producing one of the world's most coveted natural fibers.
The process begins in remote highlands where cashmere goats thrive in harsh conditions, developing their precious protective undercoat during winter months. The collection of this valuable fiber follows a carefully orchestrated seasonal rhythm:
The grasslands of Mongolia and the Himalayas provide the perfect environment for these hardy animals, whose fibers have adapted to extreme temperature variations, creating a material with exceptional insulation properties.
Once collected, raw cashmere undergoes critical refinement processes to ensure its legendary softness.
The de-hairing stage is perhaps the most technical part of cashmere production. Specialized machines separate fine undercoat fibers (measuring just 14-16 microns in diameter) from coarser guard hairs. This meticulous separation is essential for achieving cashmere's signature softness, as even small amounts of guard hair can compromise the final product's quality.
After de-hairing, expert sorters classify the fibers based on color, length, and fineness. Only the longest, finest fibers are selected for premium cashmere yarn production. These superior fibers are then washed to remove natural oils, dirt, and other impurities, preparing them for the next stage of transformation.
The final transformation from fiber to fabric showcases the artistry behind luxury cashmere.
Clean, sorted fibers are carded to align them in the same direction before being spun into yarn. Traditional ring spinning creates the finest, softest yarns, with the degree of twist determining the yarn's strength and texture. Master spinners carefully control this process to achieve the perfect balance of durability and softness.
The resulting cashmere yarn can then be woven on traditional handlooms or modern power looms, with each technique offering distinct advantages. Handlooms allow for intricate patterns and greater control, while power looms provide efficiency for larger production runs. After weaving, the fabric undergoes finishing processes including washing, brushing, and steaming to enhance its characteristic softness.
At Yves Salomon, we partner with the finest European workshops that have perfected these techniques over generations. Our commitment to French craftsmanship ensures that each cashmere piece in our collection represents the pinnacle of luxury, combining traditional expertise with contemporary design for unparalleled quality and comfort.
The fundamental driver behind cashmere's high price is its extreme scarcity. Unlike conventional wool, cashmere comes exclusively from the delicate undercoat of cashmere goats living in harsh mountainous regions:
Grade A cashmere—the exceptional quality Yves Salomon selects—commands prices 50-70% higher than lower grades due to its superior fineness (as thin as 14 micrometers) and longer fiber length.
Beyond the scarcity of raw materials, the transformation of cashmere fiber into luxurious garments requires extraordinary craftsmanship:
This labor-intensive production chain explains why authentic Grade A cashmere garments typically start at several hundred dollars, with the finest pieces reaching into the thousands. The investment, however, delivers unparalleled natural softness, superior insulation, and remarkable durability when properly cared for.
The term "cashmere" that we associate with luxurious softness and exceptional warmth has a fascinating linguistic journey that spans continents and centuries. This exquisite fabric's name carries with it a rich cultural heritage that adds depth to its already prestigious reputation.
The word "cashmere" is an anglicization of "Kashmir," the Himalayan region renowned for its fine textile traditions. This linguistic transformation began in the 18th century when British traders encountered the remarkable shawls and fabrics produced in this mountainous territory. By the early 19th century, when Kashmir shawls reached Europe in significant numbers, the anglicized spelling "cashmere" became firmly established in Western vocabulary.
The etymology can be traced further back to Sanskrit "Kashypamara," meaning "land of Kashyap"—named after a renowned sage believed to have settled people in this region. This ancient connection highlights cashmere's deep historical roots, dating back thousands of years before its European adoption.
Perhaps no figure did more to popularize cashmere in Western fashion than Empress Joséphine, Napoleon Bonaparte's first wife. When Napoleon's forces were stationed in Egypt (1798-1801), he sent his wife shipments of these exotic shawls. Despite initially describing them as "ugly and very expensive, but light and warm" in a letter to her son, Joséphine soon became passionate about these luxurious pieces. Her collection eventually grew to over 150 shawls of incomparable beauty, establishing cashmere as the height of European elegance.
Originally, cashmere was not the luxury material we recognize today but rather a practical solution for nomadic communities in Central Asia facing harsh climates. These early garments were rudimentary—thick wraps that protected tent interiors or served as essential clothing against extreme cold.
The transformation of cashmere into a symbol of refinement began when trading routes connected East and West. By the 19th century, European manufacturers were attempting to replicate the magnificent Kashmir shawls. In France, Napoleon commissioned twelve shawls from local artisans for his second wife, Empress Marie Louise, with decorative patterns created by court painter Eugene Isabey.
As production techniques evolved, cashmere garments diversified beyond shawls to include sweaters, scarves, and coats. The material's exceptional qualities—being significantly warmer than wool while remaining lightweight—made it increasingly desirable for luxury fashion. British manufacturers in Norwich and Scotland's Paisley became important centers for cashmere production, with some even maintaining agents in Kashmir to send new designs weekly.
Today, cashmere has evolved from its practical origins into the epitome of luxury textile craftsmanship, representing both timeless elegance and the remarkable journey of cultural exchange between East and West.
The world of cashmere production spans multiple continents, with centuries-old traditions blending with modern production techniques. Today's global cashmere industry produces between 15,000-20,000 tons of raw cashmere annually, representing just 0.5% of the world's total wool production—a testament to its rarity and exclusivity.
China and Mongolia dominate global cashmere production, accounting for approximately 90% of the world's supply according to PETA and industry reports. Mongolia, with its harsh climate ideal for developing fine cashmere fibers, contributes around 25% of global production with approximately 8,900 tons annually.
The Gobi Desert region, spanning northern China and southern Mongolia, is particularly renowned for producing some of the world's highest quality cashmere. Chinese production represents the majority share at around 70%, with manufacturing centers concentrated in Inner Mongolia.
The relationship between these two powerhouses is complex—many Mongolian raw fibers are transported to China for processing, where they may be blended with other materials before entering the global market.
The Kashmir region, from which cashmere derives its name, continues its centuries-old tradition of producing ultra-fine cashmere, known locally as Pashmina. Despite its historical significance as the birthplace of cashmere production, political instability and limited access have reduced Kashmir's market presence.
Today, Central Asian nations including Iran, Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan, and other former Soviet republics contribute smaller but significant quantities to the global supply. These regions maintain traditional harvesting methods, with many communities hand-combing the precious fibers—a practice that yields superior quality compared to machine shearing used in some large-scale operations.
The cashmere from these areas is particularly prized for its exceptional fineness and natural softness.
New cashmere frontiers are developing as producers in Australia, New Zealand, and the United States establish growing operations. Australian cashmere production has evolved significantly over the past four decades, with goats now farmed across diverse climates from cold Tasmania and Victoria to arid South Australia and Western Australia, and even the warmer regions of Queensland.
Through selective breeding programs initiated in the 1970s, Australian producers have increased yield from 40-60 grams per goat to over one kilogram in the highest-producing animals.
While Italy doesn't produce raw cashmere, it remains a global leader in cashmere processing and manufacturing, with renowned textile districts in Valsesia and Umbria transforming raw fibers into luxury garments that define the upper echelons of the fashion market.
At Yves Salomon, our commitment to ethical and sustainable cashmere reflects the reality of today's luxury industry—where exceptional quality must be balanced with responsible sourcing. Our approach encompasses comprehensive standards that ensure the integrity of every cashmere piece while preserving the delicate ecosystems where these precious fibers originate.
The welfare of cashmere goats remains our foremost priority. Yves Salomon adheres to rigorous protocols based on the Five Domains of Animal Welfare model, ensuring our cashmere goats experience positive care throughout their lives.
Our partnerships with herders prioritize traditional hand-combing techniques rather than stressful shearing methods, minimizing distress while maintaining fiber quality. Regular third-party audits verify compliance with our exacting standards, guaranteeing that every cashmere piece meets both ethical requirements and our premium quality expectations.
The cashmere industry faces significant environmental challenges, particularly regarding grassland preservation in Mongolia and the Himalayan regions. Yves Salomon actively addresses these concerns through:
By implementing these measures, we help protect the delicate ecosystems that produce the world's finest cashmere while ensuring sustainable production for future generations.
Transparency forms the cornerstone of our ethical approach. As proud members of the Sustainable Fibre Alliance (SFA), we demonstrate our commitment to responsible sourcing through comprehensive traceability systems.
Each Yves Salomon cashmere piece can be traced from herder to finished garment, with documentation at every stage of production. We maintain long-term relationships with herding communities, providing fair compensation and supporting traditional craftsmanship.
Our premium service extends beyond the finished product to include responsible sourcing practices, ensuring that when you choose Yves Salomon cashmere, you receive both exceptional quality and ethical assurance.
Yves Salomon offers an exquisite range of cashmere garments that embody the pinnacle of luxury and craftsmanship. From elegant sweaters to sophisticated coats, our collection represents our commitment to exceptional quality and timeless design. Each piece is created with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every pure cashmere item delivers the natural warmth and softness that discerning clients expect.
The perfect cashmere sweater combines superior material quality with impeccable craftsmanship.
The finest cashmere sweaters feature Grade A fibers from the remote highlands where Yves Salomon sources its materials. These garments provide exceptional insulation while remaining breathable, making them perfect for year-round elegance.
For additional warmth during winter, explore our cashmere coat collection that offers enhanced structure and resilience through expertly crafted wool-cashmere blends.
Understanding cashmere clothing labels ensures you make informed investments. When examining tags, look for:
At Yves Salomon, our transparent labeling reflects our commitment to authenticity. Each garment's composition is clearly stated, allowing you to identify genuine cashmere garments with confidence.
Cashmere garments represent a sophisticated investment in your wardrobe that, with proper care, will provide years of elegant wear. To maximize your cashmere's versatility:
For daytime elegance, layer a fine-gauge cashmere sweater under a tailored blazer or pair with premium denim for refined casual style. Evening occasions call for luxurious cashmere in deeper tones—consider a fitted sweater with statement jewelry or a draped cashmere wrap over evening attire.
For travel, lightweight cashmere items offer packable luxury and temperature regulation in varying climates. Select neutral tones for maximum versatility, or invest in one statement piece in a rich, seasonal hue that elevates your entire collection.
When selecting luxurious natural fibers for your wardrobe, understanding the distinctions between premium materials is essential. Yves Salomon's commitment to exceptional quality extends across our entire collection, including our exquisite cashmere-wool pieces with fur accents that exemplify the pinnacle of natural fiber luxury.
While both cashmere and sheep wool offer natural warmth, they differ significantly in several key aspects:
Many consumers are confused about the distinction between cashmere and pashmina, which is understandable given their similarities:
Preserving the exceptional quality of your cashmere pieces requires proper attention and care. The best ways to maintain these luxurious garments ensure they retain their natural softness and elegant appearance for years to come. Follow our expert guidance to protect your investment in fine cashmere.
Proper cleaning is essential for maintaining cashmere's exquisite texture. Follow these five steps for optimal results:
Yves Salomon offers a specialized after-care service for all cashmere garments, ensuring professional maintenance when needed.
Proper storage is crucial for preserving cashmere's luxurious feel. Fold your pieces rather than hanging them to prevent stretching and distortion of the delicate fibers. Store in breathable cotton bags with natural moth deterrents like cedar or lavender.
Pilling—those small fuzzy balls that form on cashmere—occurs naturally as shorter fibers work their way to the surface. To minimize this effect, reduce friction by avoiding rough surfaces and layering with smooth fabrics. For existing pills, gently remove them using a specialized cashmere comb with light, directional strokes.
For exceptional pieces requiring professional attention, Yves Salomon's expert care services ensure your finest cashmere remains impeccable throughout the seasons.
Cashmere is a luxurious natural fiber known for its exceptional softness and superior insulating properties. Characterized by ultra-fine fibers measuring 14-19 microns in diameter, this premium textile offers unparalleled warmth while remaining remarkably lightweight and silky to the touch.
Cashmere is made from the soft undercoat of cashmere goats that inhabit high-altitude regions like Mongolia and the Himalayas. This precious downy layer develops naturally beneath the animal's coarse outer hair as protection against extreme cold temperatures, creating an incredibly fine natural fiber.
While both are natural fibers, cashmere is not technically wool. Cashmere comes specifically from cashmere goats' undercoat, whereas wool typically refers to sheep's fleece. Cashmere fibers are significantly finer, softer, and provide superior warmth-to-weight ratio compared to traditional wool.
Cashmere is not vegan as it's derived from an animal source—the undercoat of cashmere goats. However, many producers like Yves Salomon maintain ethical collection practices, gathering the fiber by hand-combing during the natural spring molting season without harming the animals.
Cashmere commands premium prices due to its rarity and labor-intensive production process. Each goat produces only 150-200 grams annually, requiring 4-6 goats for a single sweater. The meticulous hand-collection, careful sorting, and expert processing of these exceptionally fine fibers further contribute to its luxury status.
Cashmere production begins with hand-combing goats during their spring molting season. The collected fibers undergo careful sorting to select only the finest undercoat. These premium fibers are then cleaned, de-haired, spun into yarn, and finally crafted into luxurious garments through specialized weaving or knitting techniques..