Pashmina Riveir Kochar

Riveir Kochar Pashmina

Pashmina is a luxurious and fine type of wool that comes from the undercoat of the Changthangi (or Pashmina) goat, native to the high-altitude regions of Ladakh in India, Nepal, and Tibet. The word “pashmina” is derived from the Persian word “Pashm,” meaning “soft gold” or “soft wool.”

Key Features of Pashmina:

1. Material:

Pashmina wool is known for its exceptional softness, warmth, and lightweight texture. It is much finer than regular wool, with fibers typically measuring 12–16 microns in diameter.

2. Production Process:

The wool is collected during the spring molting season when the goats naturally shed their undercoat.

It is then cleaned, spun, dyed, and woven by skilled artisans, often entirely by hand.

The weaving process is intricate and time-consuming, often taking weeks to months for a single shawl.

3. Products:

Pashmina is used to make a variety of items, including shawls, scarves, stoles, and blankets. It is often blended with silk to add strength and sheen to the fabric.

4. Quality Grading:

Authentic pashmina is identified by its softness, warmth, and ability to pass through a wedding ring due to its fine texture.

5. Cultural Significance:

Pashmina shawls are a symbol of luxury and elegance and have been a part of traditional Indian and Kashmiri attire for centuries. They are often gifted on special occasions and are considered a status symbol.

6. Care:

Pashmina requires delicate care, such as dry cleaning or gentle hand washing in cold water, to maintain its softness and durability.

Key Differences Between Pashmina and Cashmere:

Pashmina is a type of cashmere but is finer and exclusively sourced from Changthangi goats.

Cashmere is produced from various goat breeds and is generally less fine than pashmina.