Pashmina guide
What is genuine Pashmina?
If you are searching for Pashmina, the first question is usually what the word actually means. Pashmina designates fine cashmere fiber harvested from mountain goats, and the details of that fiber decide what you are buying.
Comparing materials
Pashmina, blends and weaves
Each construction answers a different question. Read the fiber first, then the weave and embroidery, before comparing prices.
Genuine Pashmina
Fine cashmere fiber from the mountain goat, known for its softness and fineness. Verify the fiber claim against the documentation supplied for each piece.
Cashmere blends
Blended fibers can look similar at a glance. Ask what each piece contains and whether that composition is stated in its product information.
Handwoven and embroidered
Weave and embroidery describe how a shawl was made, not only what it is made from. Read both the fiber and the construction notes together.
Evaluation checklist
Questions to ask before you buy
Ask for the burn test result, the micron count, the selvedge finish, and any laboratory certification available for the specific piece. Where a piece lacks this information, treat that as a reason to ask before purchasing.
Personal guidance is available if you want help reading these specifications before choosing an expensive shawl.