Differences Between Cashmere and Wool
Origin
Wool: Sourced from sheep, wool is collected primarily through shearing. Sheep wool fibers are generally coarser and are suitable for a wide range of clothing and home goods.
Cashmere: Specifically comes from cashmere goats (such as the Kashmir goat), harvested from the fine undercoat. The collection process is more intricate, typically involving combing the goats in spring to gather the soft fibers, yielding only about 75 grams of cashmere per goat each year.
Characteristics
Cashmere
Fineness: Cashmere fibers typically measure between 14-16 microns in diameter, making them finer than wool.
Warmth: Cashmere is eight times warmer than sheep wool, lightweight, and breathable, making it ideal for winter wear.
Softness: Cashmere has a soft, silky feel with a natural sheen and good elasticity.
Moisture Absorption: It has excellent moisture-wicking properties, with a moisture regain of over 15%, enhancing comfort when worn.
Wool
Coarseness: Wool fibers are relatively coarse and are often used to make durable outerwear and home textiles.
Warmth: While wool provides good insulation, it does not match the warmth of cashmere.
Durability: Wool is more durable and resistant to wear, making it suitable for everyday use.
Production
Wool: The global annual production of wool is approximately 1.1 million tons. Each sheep can produce several kilograms of wool per year, leading to a relatively abundant supply.
Cashmere: In contrast, the annual production of cashmere is only about 12,000 to 20,000 tons. Each cashmere goat yields only 50 to 80 grams of cashmere annually, meaning that it takes an average of five goats to produce enough cashmere for a single sweater.
Conclusion
In summary, while wool has a much higher production volume and lower price point compared to cashmere, the latter's scarcity and luxurious qualities make it highly sought after in the market. Cashmere is often referred to as "soft gold" due to its exceptional qualities and the intricate process required for its production. Both materials hold significant places in modern textiles, catering to different consumer needs.
There are cashmere sweaters on the market from fast-consuming brands that cost less than RMB800($110), such as Uniqlo's, which are actually made of a lower grade (C-grade raw material) and are rougher.
