FAQ

Pashmina is a luxurious wool sourced from the soft undercoat of the Changthangi goat, an indigenous breed from Ladakh, India. Celebrated for its unmatched softness and warmth, Pashmina is transformed into exquisite shawls, scarves, and wraps through centuries-old artisanal techniques. Its lightweight texture and natural elegance make it a timeless symbol of sophistication.

The Changthangi goat, also known as the Changra/Pashmina goat, is a remarkable breed found in the harsh, high-altitude terrain of Ladakh's Changthang plateau. These goats have adapted to extreme cold by growing an ultra-soft undercoat that serves as the source of Pashmina wool. Their resilience in such a challenging environment contributes to the unique qualities of this luxurious fabric.

Pashmina wool is ethically and sustainably harvested by the Changpa nomadic tribe of Ladakh. The wool comes from the soft undercoat of the Changthangi goat, specifically from the neck and underbelly areas, where the fibers are the finest and warmest. During spring, the goats naturally shed this undercoat, and the Changpa carefully comb the wool by hand. This gentle, cruelty-free process ensures the animals’ comfort while preserving the quality and integrity of the fibers, reflecting the tribe’s deep respect for their environment and animals.

• Unique Origins of Changthangi Pashmina: Changthangi Pashmina, also known as Ladakhi Cashmere, originates from the Changthangi region of Ladakh, India, situated at over 14,000 feet above sea level. This harsh, high-altitude terrain experiences extreme winters with temperatures dropping to -40°C. To survive in such a climate, Changthangi goats grow an exceptionally fine and warm undercoat during winter, which they naturally shed in spring.
• Unmatched Fineness of Wool: The undercoat wool of the Changthangi goats is incredibly fine, measuring between 10-16 microns in diameter—much finer than standard cashmere. This ultra-fine quality gives Changthangi Pashmina its signature softness, lightweight texture, and luxurious feel, making it highly coveted worldwide.
• Limited Availability and Ethical Harvesting: Changthangi goats are a rare breed found only in this region, and their remote habitat limits the production of this wool. The wool is ethically harvested by local herders during spring when the goats naturally shed their undercoat. This process involves careful combing, ensuring no harm to the animals.
• Traditional Craftsmanship: The creation of Changthangi Pashmina is a meticulous, artisan-led process that reflects the region's rich cultural legacy. From the delicate spinning of wool on traditional wooden wheels to weaving on handlooms, every step is carried out with precision and care. These skills, honed over centuries, are an integral part of the local community's identity. Each Pashmina piece represents a seamless blend of heritage techniques and artistic mastery, making it as much a cultural treasure as a luxurious textile.
• Heritage and Exclusivity: Changthangi Pashmina is deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of the region. Unlike cashmere sourced from Mongolia or China, Ladakhi Pashmina is celebrated for its artisanal techniques and historical significance. The intricate designs and embroidery, such as Sozni or Jamawar, make each piece not just a textile but a work of art.
• Global Prestige: The combination of its rarity, heritage, and unparalleled quality has made Changthangi Pashmina one of the most luxurious textiles in the world. Its exceptional warmth, softness, and lightweight nature, coupled with the labor-intensive production process, justify its exclusivity and high value in the global market.

The word 'cashmere' traces its origins to the region of Kashmir in India, renowned for its centuries-old tradition of crafting luxurious shawls. European traders, captivated by the unmatched softness and warmth of these textiles, adopted the name from Kashmir, linking the exquisite fiber to its place of origin. Locally known as pashm or pashmina, this fiber gained global fame during the 18th and 19th centuries when it became a significant export from Kashmir. As these goods entered European markets, the name "Kashmir" was anglicized to 'cashmere', referring not only to the region but also to the fabric itself.

Genuine cashmere is sourced from the undercoat of Changthangi goats, tended by traditional herders in the Changthang area of Ladakh. While cashmere production has spread globally, the finest and most authentic cashmere, known as pashmina, continues to be sourced exclusively from the Ladakh and Kashmir regions. The term 'pashmina' itself is derived from the Persian word pashm, meaning 'soft gold', a fitting tribute to its exceptional quality and value.

A key distinction between cashmere and pashmina lies in the fiber itself: cashmere fibers have a wider diameter, making them thicker, whereas pashmina is much finer, thinner, and far more delicate. This delicate nature of pashmina demands extraordinary care and craftsmanship. Local Kashmiri artisans meticulously comb, refine, spin, weave, and embroider pashmina entirely by hand, preserving its unique qualities and cultural heritage.

Despite modern innovations, Kashmir and Ladakh remain the heart of this storied tradition, where artisans transform this prized fiber into timeless masterpieces—a true legacy of 'soft gold'.

Yes, Pashmina is a sustainable fabric. It is biodegradable and involves ethical, cruelty-free practices. Moreover, supporting Pashmina artisans helps sustain traditional craftsmanship and local economies.

Authentic Pashmina is always handcrafted; machine-made alternatives are not true Pashmina.

When properly cared for, authentic Pashmina retains its softness and beauty for decades. Avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals or extreme heat, which can weaken the fibers.

To ensure your pashmina shawl retains its beauty and quality for years to come, please follow these care guidelines:

1. Cleaning:
   • Professional dry cleaning is strongly recommended to safeguard the delicate fibers and maintain the shawl's pristine finish.
   • Avoid home washing, as water and detergents can weaken the fabric and alter its texture.
2. Storage:
   • Store your shawl flat in the dust bag provided to shield it from dust and wear.
   • For added protection, tuck dried lavender or cedar blocks into the convenient pocket inside the dust bag, naturally repelling moths while preserving the quality of your pashmina.
   • Keep the shawl away from direct sunlight to prevent fading, and avoid damp areas to protect it from mildew or odours.
3.  Usage Precautions:
   • Allow perfumes, creams, or lotions to fully absorb before wearing your shawl to prevent stains or fibre damage.
   • Avoid contact with sharp edges or pointy objects, including jewelry with intricate settings, to prevent snags or tears in the delicate weave.
   • Do not hang the shawl for extended periods, as this can stretch the fabric.
4.  Handling:
   • Never wring, twist, or rub the shawl, especially when damp, as this can distort the weave. If necessary, blot gently with a clean, dry towel.
5.  Ironing:
   • Use a Low Heat Setting - Always set your iron to the lowest heat option, typically labeled as "silk" or "wool." Excessive heat can burn or weaken the fibers, so gentle warmth is essential to maintain the integrity of your Pashmina.
   • Use a Protective Cloth - To shield your Pashmina from direct heat, place a lightweight cotton or muslin cloth between the iron and the shawl. This layer acts as a buffer, evenly distributing heat and preventing any risk of burning or glossing the fabric.
   • Gentle Strokes Only - Avoid pressing hard or using erratic back-and-forth movements. Instead, use smooth, light strokes to prevent stretching or misshaping the delicate fibers.
   • Iron on the Reverse Side - For added protection, always iron Pashmina on the reverse side. This is especially crucial for embroidered pieces or intricate patterns, as direct heat can dull their vibrancy or distort their details.
6.  Steaming:
   • A handheld steamer is a foolproof way to remove wrinkles. Hang your Pashmina and lightly steam it from a distance, allowing the creases to relax naturally. Always keep the steamer moving and avoid prolonged focus on a single area.

By following these care instructions, you can safeguard your pashmina shawl’s exceptional quality and timeless allure for years to come.

Genuine Pashmina stands apart from imitations due to its unique qualities and craftsmanship. Here are the key tests to ensure your Pashmina is authentic:

1. Touch and Feel Test
   Authentic Pashmina is exceptionally soft and smooth to the touch, with a gentle, non-itchy texture. If the fabric feels rough, overly silky, or synthetic, it may not be genuine.
2. Ring Test
   Fold the Pashmina and try to pass it through a standard-sized ring. Genuine Pashmina, known for its ultra-fine fibers, glides through effortlessly. Heavier or blended fabrics may struggle to pass through.
3. Burn Test
   Burn a small thread from the fabric to check its authenticity. Real Pashmina burns like human hair, producing a similar smell and leaving behind soft, powdery ash. Synthetic materials will melt, release a chemical odor, and form hard, bead-like residues. Perform this test cautiously and on an inconspicuous area.
4. Diamond Weave Pattern
   Hold the fabric up to light and look closely for the distinctive diamond weave pattern, a hallmark of handwoven Pashmina. This pattern is often uneven and slightly irregular due to its handcrafted nature, reflecting the artisan’s expertise. Machine-made or fake Pashmina lacks this unique characteristic.
5. Opaqueness Test
   Genuine Pashmina has a natural translucence. When held up to light, it allows some light to pass through, creating a soft glow. Heavier, blended, or synthetic fabrics will block light more completely, lacking this subtle feature.
6. Static Electricity Test
   Rub the fabric against itself to check for static electricity. As a natural fiber, Pashmina does not generate static, unlike synthetic or blended materials.
7. Pilling Test
   Over time, genuine Pashmina may develop small pills due to its natural fiber composition. If the fabric remains flawless after extended use, it could indicate the presence of synthetic materials.
8. Price and Source
   Authentic Pashmina is a luxury product with a price that reflects its rarity and craftsmanship. Be cautious of significantly low-priced pieces, as they are often counterfeit or blended. To ensure authenticity, purchase from reputable brands, artisan cooperatives, or sellers who specialize in handcrafted Pashmina.

The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) defines a Geographical Indication (GI) as a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation due to that origin. In line with this, India enacted the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, which came into effect on September 15, 2003, to protect such unique products.
Kashmir Pashmina, deeply rooted in the Kashmir Valley, is crafted using traditional techniques that benefit from the region's natural environment, including its water and climate. Due to its unparalleled origin and craftsmanship, "Kashmir Pashmina" has been officially registered under India's Geographical Indications registry, safeguarding its authenticity and heritage.

Absolutely! Explore our range of customisation options here.

Yes, its breathable nature keeps you snug and warm in the cold while ensuring comfort in milder weather.

Yes, we offer a size guide on our website to help you find the right fit for your body type. If you have any questions about sizing, please don't hesitate to contact our customer service team for assistance.

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