The price of cashmere is affected by several factors. For one, the scarcity of the cashmere goat. Because the goats abide in such rough terrain it is difficult to breed and raise them – therefore their numbers are scarce. Secondly, the amount of cashmere fiber produced per goat is very minimal. In fact, it can take between 2-3 goats just to create enough fiber to produce one sweater. In addition, the process of removing and separating the cashmere fiber from the rougher top coat is often done by hand, which results in a very labor intensive and time consuming process.

Why are some Cashmere Sweaters more expensive than others?

When you notice a significant difference between the prices of two or more cashmere sweaters keep in mind the old saying: you get what you pay for.

The price in cashmere can vary based on its quality, origin, and color. Cashmere fiber is graded based on the fiber length and thickness. A longer, stronger fiber is easier to spin and more durable than cheaper, shorter fibers. Sweaters made out of superior cashmere are less likely to pill, and lose their shape when worn.

In addition the fiber’s origin may also affect the price. Originally cashmere was produced in China and Mongolia as mentioned before, but today it is commonly produced all across the globe (everywhere from Massachusetts, to Australia, India, Pakistan, Iran, Afghanistan, Turkey, and Central Asian Republics) and qualities may vary based on the supplier.

Color dying cashmere can also effect its quality and price. In its natural state cashmere fiber can range in color from white and grey to brown. The purer “whiter” color is generally considered the most desirable and requires less processing to color (if it is colored at all). Fiber that has to be dyed may lose some of it’s softness.



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