Pashmina Art is the crafting of the finest Cashmere wool procured from Changra Goats. The beauty of crafting bestows a premium collection of Pashmina accessories. Mainly, there are three styles viz; Cashmere Scarves, Cashmere Wraps, and Pashmina Shawls. Moreover, the elegance of each style is diversified through endless designs. There is always confusion about Cashmere and Pashmina. Defining the elegance of both is our definition of Luxury.

From the lake of Dal, 
it waves at Kashmir 
from a land far away, Ladakh
it sings a song of craft 
people call it Pashmina
Along the sides of lake,
they sing together the songs of craft
people call it Pashmina! 

Cashmere is procured from Ladakh

It all starts in the region of Ladakh. The temperature in the mountain of Changhthanghi goes to a minimum of 20°C. Nature inhibits many movements. But, a rare breed of goats called Changra Goats dwells in this harsh climate. To combat this winter, they develop thick wool on their bodies. Also called Kashmir Goats. Medium-sized Goats with two twisted horns. Mainly grazed for the production of fine Wool. The fine wool they develop in the winter season is naturally shed off against rocks, and trees by them. Moreover, the herders of the Changpa tribe also manually comb out the wool. The fine wool is called Cashmere wool. 

There are diverse breeds of Cashmere producing goats. Each breed has a specific percentage of production in the total production. The several breeds viz;  Australian Cashmere Goat, Liaoning, Inner Mongolia, Xinjiang, Hexi, Zhonghwei, Tibetan Plateau, Luliang breeds, Changthanghi, etc. Therefore, all the breeds produce the Cashmere wool that produces the warmth. The exclusive breed of goats called Changra Goats is rare species of goats

In addition, the Goats produce the fine Cashmere wool once every year. Therefore, only around 80 to 170 gms of Ladakhi Cashmere are produced during a year. Therefore, considered the rarest. Also, other breeds of it produce several times more as there is almost 400 million Cashmere eliciting Goats all over the world. Consequently, the production caters to the manufacture of different styles like Pashmina Shawls, Cashmere Scarves, and Cashmere Wraps.

Pashmina Art reflects the finest wool

The tufts of Cashmere wool are packed in small packets in Ladakh. Afterward, the procured Cashmere is transferred to the Valley of Kashmir. The tufts are wool reaches the Kashmir Valley and the first step of Pashmina Art commences. The first step of Pashmina Art is the cleaning of Cashmere wool. The tufts of wool are predominately cleaned and soaked. Afterward, the fully cleaned Cashmere wool is dried. Thus, the high quality of the Cashmere wool is preserved by doing all the processes.

The cleaned Cashmere wool is transferred to the households of Kashmir Valley. The fine Cashmere wool is worked upon by women of the Kashmir Valley. The women meticulously work upon the fine Cashmere wool through the process of Spinning. Spinning is the process of translating fine Cashmere wool into the finest cashmere yarn. The process of spinning is aided by a wooden wheel called yinder. The womenfolk of the Kashmir Valley explicitly spin the fine Cashmere wool into Cashmere yarn for the next process of Pashmina Art.

The weaving of the finest yarns of Cashmere

Weaving is the next step in Pashmina Art. It is the process of crafting the fine yarn into premium Cashmere fabric. The highly skilled artisans work on the handlooms set up in the local workshops/ karkhanas. Also, the handlooms are mostly made of forest wood. The artisans mainly men artisans work meticulously on the fine yarn. By creating magical warps and wefts by using their hands and feet, the fabric comes into existence. The supremely premium fabric, turned into the further steps of designing is exquisite.

Pashmina is the crafting of Cashmere wool to Cashmere Scarves

The Pashmina Art bestows a glamorous accessory of Cashmere Scarves. The explicit and intricate creation of Cashmere Scarves from the finest Cashmere is tremendous. Therefore, the different styles and designs confer the unique amalgamation of luxury and Purity. Also, the Cashmere Scarves perform in the realms of Pashmina Art with the most sophisticated of designs.

A scarf is a square piece of clothing draped around the neck or shoulders. The explicit styles with these finest Cashmere. The premium quality Cashmere scarves bring out the aura of colorful and elegant luxury. The versatile styles of unique designs of Cashmere Scarves are examples of high-class fashion. They cater to all genders with exquisite collections. The artisans work upon each masterpiece with precision. Thus, providing serene exclusiveness. Moreover, today's generation feels the aura of authentic Cashmere in their lifestyles. Also, this proves that not only the royals but also the people of admiration for Pashmina wear the new class Cashmere Scarves. In the contemporary world of fashion, premium Cashmere scarves prove to be the confidante of authenticity.

Also read: WHICH COUNTRY HAS THE BEST CASHMERE?

Dimensions of Cashmere Scarves

The unique crafting of Cashmere Scarves obliges the artistic hand of Artisans. Hence, the artisans of the valley are highly skilled. They are the masters of Pashmina Art. Generations of artisans are working in the glorious field of Pashmina. Therefore, the exquisite craft is dignified in the realms of Kashmir Valley. The profound craft feels the dimensions of Cashmere Scarves. Mainly, there are two sizes for Cashmere Scarves. They are; 80in x 14in/2m x 35cm and 80in x 28in/2m x 70cm. The dimensions of each Cashmere Scarf befit traditional fashion as well as contemporary fashion.

Collection of Pashmina

We, at pashmina.com, bring you the authentic and pure Cashmere from the Changra goats. Thus, worked upon by the artisans in the valley of Kashmir. Thus, providing the world with the best exclusive collection of Pashmina Art. Therefore, the luxurious collection on our platform, directly taken from the cradle of the Kashmir valley. Also, the intricate and luxurious Kani weave Pashmina Shawls, taken directly from the valley to present to the world with their elegance.

Also read: IS PASHMINA A BRAND?

In the shadows of beauty, fashion witnesses the arrival of Cashmere. Among the gallops of nature, Art is observed. Cashmere is the wool from the undercoats of Goats that are bred specifically for the production of quality wool. The term “cashmere” is basically the anglicization of the word “Kashmir”, the northernmost region of India. It is a valley where luxurious Pashmina Art was made for thousands of years. There are mainly three grades viz; Grade C, Grade B, and Grade A. Around the world, types of Cashmere wool come under these three grades. Quite often, it is a question asked if there are grades. We will uphold the reflection in detail.

The three grades of Cashmere

Mainly, there are considered three grades of Cashmere wool. These three grades are profoundly procured and crafted for numerous accessories around the world. In addition, there are diverse breeds of Cashmere producing goats. Each breed has a specific percentage of production in the total production. The several breeds viz;  Australian Goat, Liaoning, Inner Mongolia, Xinjiang, Hexi, Zhonghwei, Tibetan Plateau, Luliang breeds, Changthanghi, etc. Therefore, all the breeds produce the wool that produces the warmth. The exclusive breed of goats called Changra Goats is rare species of goats. All the production from each breed of goat is upheld in these three grades.

1. Grade C

Grade C is of the lowest quality Cashmere wool. It is 30 microns in diameter and the fiber is thicker compared to other grades. The quality is considered to be quite low. Therefore, the expensiveness is to the lowest and the production is ethically more due to the non-rarity of breeds around the world. As Cashmere wool is known for its fineness and softness, the grades have different grades of softness too. The softness is low and the property of retaining shape is also on the lower side.

2. Grade B

Grade B is the medium-quality Cashmere wool with a diameter of 19 microns. It is fairly good quality wool. Yet, the fineness is incomparable with the highest grade of Cashmere. Therefore, the quality of Grade B Cashmere wool is of average quality. The softness and fineness of the wool is considered to be fairly average and good. Also, the property of retaining the shape is partially high.

3. Grade A

It is the highest quality grade of Cashmere wool with 10 to 16 microns in diameter. The fibres of the wool are the longest as well as the softest. This is the highest and premium quality around the world. The fineness and softness are up to the mark. It defines the luxurious nature of Cashmere wool. Therefore, the Changra goats of Ladakh belong to the breed of highest quality wool.

Why is Cashmere expensive?

There are several reasons why Cashmere wool is expensive. The Goats produce fine wool once every year. Therefore, only around 80 to 170 gms of Ladakhi Cashmere are produced during a year. Therefore, considered the rarest. Also, other breeds of it produce several times more as there is almost 400 million Cashmere eliciting Goats all over the world. Consequently, the production caters to the manufacture of different styles like Pashmina Shawls, Scarves, and Wraps. In addition, the luxurious appearance caters to the quality of wool. Also, the low production of Cashmere wool befits the expensive nature of the finest Cashmere wool.

Procuring the best grade of Cashmere wool

The Changhthanghi plateau is a high-altitude region. The minimum temperature goes more than minus 20°C in winters. The rarest breed of goats called the Changra goats dwells at the feet of the mountain Changhthanghi. In the harsh winters, the Changra goats meticulously develop a thick layer of wool on their bodies. Thus, to overcome the cold. With the changing of seasons, the Changra goats shed off the thick wool by rubbing against rocks and trees to comfort the heat of summer. Also, it's manually done by the Changpa tribe who are the herders of the Changra goats. They manually comb the thick wool out. The wool is called Cashmere wool.

Crafting the finest Cashmere from Ladakh

The finest Cashmere wool is transferred to the Valley of Kashmir in small packets. The tufts of wool are hand-cleaned, and hand sorted. Thereafter, the wool is spun across a wheel called yinder. Then, the magical yarn of Cashmere is whirled upon the wooden stick called thonchur by the process called pranch. Afterward, the yarn is taken to the local workshops where a handloom moves ahead with the process. The handlooms are made of forest wood. The highly skilled artisans work upon the handloom with their hands and feet to curate the finest fabric.

Also read: TURNING THE WAYS FOR THE PLEDGE OF FINEST CASHMERE

Luxurious Pashmina Art

There are three main styles in Pashmina Art viz; Wraps, Scarves, and Shawls. In these elegant styles, there are innumerable designs in the creation of Pashmina Art. The different styles in Pashmina Art cater to all the people around the world. The modern and contemporary designs in the Art of Pashmina befit all genders for ages. From early times till the age of contemporary, Pashmina Art has enthralled the unique masterpieces of the finest Cashmere. All the styles and designs confer the fashion of luxurious value. The eloquent ways to cater to the genders are in the creation of each masterpiece. With the advent of time, modern motifs, and designs are inculcated in the styles.

The processes are done specifically with profound knowledge of intricacy. The contemporary styles of donning the accessories have created an aura of modernism in the dimensions of Pashmina Art The Pashmina Art performs divinely on every masterpiece. Modern prints, patterns, and motifs contribute to the elegance of Pashmina Art accessories. The styles that make the Pashmina Art evident are; Wraps, Scarves, and Shawls.

We, at pashmina.com, belong and befit the originality of the finest Cashmere. We relish the beauty of Pashmina Art accessories. Thus, having one of the masterpieces defines the soul of luxury around your presence.

Also read: WHO INTRODUCED PASHMINA SHAWL IN KASHMIR?

Pashmina Shawls are versatile accessories around the world. The endless luxury of Pashmina was introduced in Kashmir by a saint. Pashmina became a part of Kashmir overnight. The tale goes to the time in the 13th century. Thus, the beauty of Pashmina is on the walls of the heritage of Kashmir Valley. Surrounding everything with its intricacy, Pashmina Art festoons a horizon of Luxury.

The Saint landed in Ladakh and Pashmina Art began

It all started when a Persian saint was travelling across the globe. Mir Syed Ali Hamdani was a sage from the Middle East. The footprints of a saint Mir Syed Ali Hamdani from the middle east came to Kashmir with 700 craftsmen to adorn the beauty of the valley and to spread the holy message. He rested his feet in the region of Changhthanghi Ladakh. Thus, the saint landed its appearance in the Changhthangi Mountain in Ladakh. While perceiving nature, he locked his eyes on the Goat of marvellous wool. Awestruck with the softness and fineness of the wool, he made socks out of it and gifted them to the Sultan Zain-ul-Abideen of Kashmir Valley.

Perceiving the beauty of Cashmere wool, suggested making an industry that cultivates the Pashmina in desirable styles. Also, even the name Pashmina, derived from the Persian word, pashm, meaning "the soft gold" is exquisite in being.

The Royals cherished Pashmina Shawl

The royals devoured the Cashmere to present an extraordinary luxury. In addition, royalties decorated their royal courts with Pashmina craft. The most inspiring incident is that when Napoleon and his army were coming back from Egypt, they met someone who owned exquisite Pashmina. Napoleon, fascinated by the appearance of Pashmina thus brought one for his wife, Empress Josephine. She, astonished by the artistic reproach determined to explore more of them. She immediately took the gift and perceived in mind the intricacy. In fact, it is said that she owned a few hundred Kani shawls from Kashmir.

How is the finest Cashmere procured?

The Changhthanghi plateau extends into the region of Ladakh. It is a high-altitude region in Ladakh. The herders around the Ladakhi Changhthanghi are of the Changpa tribe. The tribe herds the rarest breed of Goats called Changra goats. At high altitudes, the temperature lowers to the minimum. The winters are the harshest in this region of Changhthanghi. Therefore, the Changra goats naturally cover their bodies with thick wool to combat the harsh winters. All along the winters, the thick wool reserves the heat beneath their bodies giving them the warmth of nature.

Thereby, on the seasonal climate change, the goats naturally shed off the wool with the help of coarse rocks and trees. To overcome the heat of summers, they eventually shed off the thick wool mostly from their bellies, neck region, and behind the ears. In addition, the herders also comb out the wool manually. The soft wool is Cashmere wool.

Exquisite Art of Pashmina Shawl

After combing out the Cashmere wool, it is cleaned from the excess dust and filled into the packets to transfer to the valley of Kashmir. The Cashmere wool is sorted and undergoes several procedures in the valley itself. The cleaning, drying, and soaking make the Cashmere wool vividly clean. Afterwards, it is translated to the finest fibres by the process of spinning. The yarn of fineness is transferred to the handlooms in the valley to weave the yarn into several styles of accessories. The whole process of spinning and weaving the finest Cashmere is called the Art of Pashmina.

The meticulous weaving of Cashmere yarn gives the premium quality accessories like Cashmere Scarves, Cashmere Wraps, and Pashmina Shawls. Therefore, the creation of the finest Cashmere fibre distinctly defines styles like Cashmere Wraps, Cashmere Scarves, and Pashmina Shawls is the Art of Pashmina altogether. The substantial virtue of each process in the Craft of Pashmina belongs to luxurious fashion. The world around admired the aura of every masterpiece of Cashmere in the Art of Pashmina

The premium Styles in Pashmina Art

There are three main styles in Pashmina Art viz; Cashmere Wraps, Cashmere Scarves and Pashmina Shawls. Each style has endless designs in the form of bounties of intricacies. Ethically crafted in the realm of Kashmir Valley. Therefore, the beauty of styles is in itself a form of Luxury in Pashmina Art. Therefore, from a saint to the Kashmiri people, Pashmina Art travelled for a good. Hence, Pashmina Art is cherished by the Artisans for being a support for their survival.

Also read: HOW DO YOU PICK A CASHMERE SCARF?

Pashmina.com revives the traditional Pashmina Shawl

We, at pashmina.com, revive the traditional craft of Pashmina. The Valley of Kashmir has witnessed the blessing of Pashmina through a saint in the 13th century. Till now Pashmina Art capture its glaze from the horizons of Kashmir. We adorn the tranquillity of Pashmina Art in the eyes of artisans and craft it ethically to flourish in the fashion world. Thus, have your part of the heritage by adorning the beauty of Pashmina Accessory.

Also read: IS CASHMERE THE SAME AS PASHMINA?

Pashmina is the crafting of the finest Cashmere wool. Cashmere wool is obtained from several species of Goat while the finest Cashmere is procured from the rarest breed called Changra Goats or Changhthanghi Goats. They are also called Kashmir Goats. Indeed, there are diverse breeds of Cashmere producing goats. Each breed has a specific percentage of production in the total production. The several breeds viz;  Australian Cashmere Goat, Liaoning, Inner Mongolia, Xinjiang, Hexi, Zhonghwei, Tibetan Plateau, Luliang breeds, Changthanghi, etc. Therefore, all the breeds produce the Cashmere wool that produces the warmth. The exclusive breed of goats called Changra Goats is rare species of goats that produce the finest Cashmere for the Craft of Pashmina.

Pashmina is the crafting of the finest Cashmere which is procured from a rare species of Goats called Changhthanghi Goats or Changra Goats

How is the finest Cashmere wool procured?

It all starts in the region of Ladakh. The temperature in the mountain of Changhthanghi goes to a minimum of 20°C. Nature inhibits many movements. But, a rare breed of goats called Changra Goats dwells in this harsh climate. To combat this winter, they develop thick wool on their bodies. The Changra goats are also called Kashmir Goats. They are medium-sized Goats with two twisted horns. They are mainly grazed for the production of fine Wool. The fine wool they develop in the winter season is naturally shed off against rocks, and trees by them. Moreover, the herders of the Changpa tribe also manually comb out the wool. The fine wool is called Cashmere wool. 

There are numerous breeds of goats for the production of cashmere wool. Yet, Changhthangi or Changra Goats produce the finest Cashmere wool. The Changra Goats produce the fine Cashmere wool once every year. Therefore, only around 80 to 170 gms of Ladakhi Cashmere are produced during a year. Therefore, considered the rarest. Also, other breeds of it produce several times more as there is almost 400 million Cashmere eliciting Goats all over the world. Consequently, the production caters to the manufacture of different styles like Pashmina Shawls, Cashmere Scarves, and Cashmere Wraps.

Fine Cashmere is crafted in Kashmir Valley

The tufts of Cashmere wool are packed in small packets in Ladakh. Afterward, the procured Cashmere is transferred to the Valley of Kashmir. The tufts are wool reaches the Kashmir Valley and the first step of Pashmina Art commences. The first step of Pashmina Art is the cleaning of Cashmere wool. The tufts of wool are predominately cleaned and soaked. Afterward, the fully cleaned Cashmere wool is dried. Thus, the high quality of the Cashmere wool is preserved by doing all the processes.

The cleaned Cashmere wool is transferred to the households of Kashmir Valley. The fine Cashmere wool is worked upon by women of the Kashmir Valley. The women meticulously work upon the fine Cashmere wool through the process of Spinning. Spinning is the process of translating fine Cashmere wool into the finest cashmere yarn. The process of spinning is aided by a wooden wheel called yinder. The womenfolk of the Kashmir Valley explicitly spin the fine Cashmere wool into Cashmere yarn for the next process of Pashmina Art.

The weaving of finest Cashmere for Pashmina

Weaving is the next step in Pashmina Art. It is the process of crafting the fine yarn into premium Cashmere fabric. The highly skilled artisans work on the handlooms set up in the local workshops/ karkhanas. Also, the handlooms are mostly made of forest wood. The artisans mainly men artisans work meticulously on the fine yarn. By creating magical warps and wefts by using their hands and feet, the fabric comes into existence. The supremely premium fabric is turned into the further steps of designing.

Also read: PASHMINA - UNWRAP THE VIRTUES OF ART

Pashmina is not a Goat, the wool obtained for it is procured from a Goat

Pashmina is the craft of heritage of Kashmir Valley. From procurement till the end product, the beauty remains ethical and sustainable. Beyond the definition of the premium Craft, Pashmina is the sense of ravishing glory.

Pashmina.com is an online space that revives Pashmina Art with its most original makings. It is the platform where the Pashmina is handcrafted proving the high quality to be the main objective. Moreover, working day and night to preserve nature, is the precursor of the Pashmina by welcoming and encouraging sustainable fashion. Artisans in the sphere of Pashmina.com have managed to look upon the heritage more efficiently. thus, preserving the artisans as well as reviving the Pashmina Craft. In addition, the exquisite pashmina brings luxury over to you with the sky of fashion draped near the presence.

Also read: IS PASHMINA A BRAND?

Across the world of aesthetic nature, there lives a place, going nowhere and everywhere. The pathways to the place, blessed with the shrouds of creation are explicit. It is the Pashmina. The way it enhances its presence on the paths of luxurious fashion grooms the pathways to creativity. Being one of the prestigious Craft in the Art and Craft World, exquisitely created, designed and marketed with Sustainability to nature and creation.

Pashmina is not a particular brand. It is the premium crafting of the finest Cashmere. The explicit crafting takes its flight in the high altitudes of Ladakh and lands in the Valley of Kashmir. Therefore, Pashmina is the crafting. The luxury in each masterpiece of Pashmina profuse a brand of fashion far beyond the luxury. Beyond simply being a craft, pashmina represents ageless elegance and workmanship that is enduring. Originating in the far reaches of the Himalayas, Pashmina represents the tranquil beauty of its birthplace of mountains. The fine yarns are taken from the undercoat of the rare Pashmina goat and are carefully gathered by hand so that every thread has the mountain's soul in it.

The meticulous gathering method demonstrates the great regard for heritage and environment that characterizes Pashmina workmanship. The fibers are harvested and then given a sophisticated makeover by hand-spinning and weaving methods that bring out their natural warmth and softness. Each Pashmina piece narrates a tale of the natural environment and the artists' talent that brings it to life.

Legacy of Pashmina

The rich cultural legacy of Pashmina adds to its attractiveness in addition to its physical attributes. Once the preserve of aristocratic families and royal palaces, Pashmina weaving has long been a revered craft in Kashmir. With motifs drawn from Persian art, mythology, and the natural world, Pashmina shawls' elaborate patterns and designs frequently showcase the region's rich artistic and spiritual influences. Each shawl is transformed into a work of exquisite craftsmanship with the hand-embroidered designs, which range from delicate floral arrangements to intricate paisleys. Pashmina is a sought-after heirloom that is valued by people who love both beauty and tradition because to this fusion of artistry and tradition.

Pashmina has blended in with modern fashion in the modern day, creating a seamless transition between innovation and tradition. Pashmina's opulent texture and adaptability have been welcomed by designers worldwide, who use it to create elegant clothing and accessories that enhance any look. Pashmina never ceases to enchant with its ability to blend elegance and utility, whether it is worn as a throw, a scarf, or a shawl. The fabric's versatility guarantees its relevance in today's fashion scene, and its classic appeal guarantees that it will always be regarded as a treasured representation of ageless beauty and taste.

Centuries of tradition, skill, and cultural significance have been woven into the complex tapestry that is Pashmina's legacy. Originating in the Himalayan highlands, Pashmina has long been prized for its unmatched warmth, softness, and grace. Royalty and aristocrats throughout Asia and beyond have treasured this exquisite cloth as a status and refinement emblem. In Kashmir, where craftspeople have honed their craft for generations, the painstaking process of gathering, spinning, and weaving pashmina is a deeply ingrained custom. Pashmina's everlasting appeal stems from the way it combines natural beauty with the best of artisanal craftsmanship, making every piece a tribute to fine craftsmanship and classic design.

Origin of the craft of Pashmina

The origin of the finest Cashmere dates back to the 13th century. A sage from the Middle East, Mir Syed Ali Shah Hamdani started his journey with 700 craftsmen towards Kashmir. On his journey to Kashmir, he encountered the rare goats of Ladakh. Enthralled by the fine wool on their bodies. He combed some out of them and made socks. The fine socks were warm and Pure. He gifted them to the ruler of Kashmir, Zain-ul-Abideen. In addition, he suggested making a local industry to curate the fine wool. His 700 craftsmen taught the people of Kashmir several skills. The skills proved to be the main requisite for curating the finest Cashmere. Thus, the art of Pashmina came into existence. The high skill prevails in the valley till now. Thus, incorporated into the heritage of Kashmir Valley. 

The remarkable properties of Pashmina wool were recognized by the Mughal monarchs, who were greatly influenced by Persian art and culture, and they endeavored to incorporate it into their royal dress. The weaving and embroidery skills were adopted and improved upon over time by the native Kashmiri artists, who turned the trade into a unique and highly valued art form. The rich cultural legacy of the area as well as the scenic beauty of their surroundings were mirrored in the elaborate patterns and designs created by these craftspeople.

As the technique developed, it won praise from all throughout the world and came to represent beauty and luxury. Kashmiri artists are carrying on the heritage of Pashmina weaving by preserving old techniques and modifying them to suit modern demands. This persistent legacy demonstrates the extensive cultural contacts that have shaped Pashmina art over centuries, as well as the extraordinary talent of the weavers.

The uniqueness of procuring Cashmere

The Changhthanghi plateau extends into the region of Ladakh. It is a high-altitude region in Ladakh. The herders around the Ladakhi Changhthanghi are of the Changpa tribe. The tribe herds the rarest breed of Goats called Changra.

The severe yet breathtakingly beautiful Ladakh scenery is reflected in fine Ladakhi cashmere, which is frequently praised as one of the most opulent textiles in the world. This magnificent cashmere is known for its unmatched softness, warmth, and lightness. It is derived from the delicate undercoat of the Ladakhi goat. The goats in the Ladakh region must grow a thick, silky underlayer due to the severe, freezing temperature; this layer is carefully gathered by hand during the spring moulting season. This fine cashmere is woven into exquisite, light-weight garments that are the epitome of luxury and coziness. It is a combination of the artisan's ability and the resilience of nature.

It is known that at high altitudes, the temperature lowers to the minimum. The winters are the harshest in this region of Changhthanghi. Therefore, the Changra Goats naturally cover their bodies with thick wool to combat the harsh winters. All along the winters, the thick wool reserves the heat beneath their bodies giving them the warmth of nature. On the seasonal climate change, the goats naturally shed off the wool with the help of coarse rocks and trees. To overcome the heat of summers, they eventually shed off the thick wool mostly from their bellies, neck region, and behind the ears. In addition, the herders also comb out the wool manually. The soft wool is Cashmere wool.

Spinning and Weaving in Kashmir

After combing out the Cashmere wool, it is cleaned from the excess dust and filled into the packets to transfer to the valley of Kashmir. The Cashmere wool is sorted and undergoes several procedures in the valley itself. The cleaning, drying, and soaking make the Cashmere wool vividly clean. Afterwards, the Cashmere wool, translated to the finest fibres by the process of spinning. The yarn of fineness is transferred to the handlooms in the valley to weave the yarn into several styles of accessories.

Spinning and weaving are more than just crafts in the enchanted region of Kashmir; they are poetic representations of cultural legacy and artistic proficiency. The procedure starts with the delicate task of spinning wool from the Pashmina goat, which is an elusive animal that roams the frozen heights of the Himalayas. A centuries-old, meditative, rhythmic spinning process turns each strand of this remarkable wool into a beautiful yarn. In order to preserve the yarn's inherent softness and warmth, the wool is painstakingly hand-spun on traditional charkhas (spinning wheels) by expert artisans using a delicate touch.

In Kashmir, the real magic is found in the skill of weaving. Using traditional looms that have frequently been passed down through generations of craftspeople, the spun yarn is then woven into incredibly beautiful fabrics. These looms, dubbed "kani" looms, are wonders of engineering and craftsmanship that enable weavers to produce intricate patterns and designs that are a reflection of Kashmir's rich cultural tapestry. The weavers use techniques that combine traditional themes with modern aesthetics to carefully make each piece. The end product is a fabric that is both visually arresting and delightful to the touch, with each weave expressing a tale of talent and legacy. The completed textiles, whether they are sumptuous shawls or exquisite clothing, capture the classic elegance of Kashmiri workmanship, honoring the confluence of custom.

Thus, the whole process of spinning and weaving the finest Cashmere is called the Art of Pashmina. Moving along the art of Pashmina, several other processes like dyeing, printing, interweaving, and embroidering the Cashmere cater to the exclusive collection of Cashmere. Therefore, the art of Pashmina cherishes every inch of the finest Cashmere to bring luxury to the world.

The Dyeing and Designing

The chroming of the outcome of the weaving is thereupon done manually based on the design prescribed. To define its beauty with edges of colours of various pigments, Cashmere is dyed. The design of the Pashmina propagates choosing the process of colouring. There are some specific steps like; tracing of the requisite design and rubbing of colour powder. In addition, the tracing can be replaced by the hand-block print process where a wooden block, already carved along with designs and motifs according to the fashion and tradition side by side. Therefore, the print, scribed on the shawl with a skilled hand and colour medium is explicit.

When raw threads are dyed and designed in Pashmina, they become stunning wearable artwork, showcasing the full craftsmanship of this opulent fabric. Since Pashmina wool is recognized for its extraordinary warmth and tenderness, the coloring process starts with the natural fiber. For durable and vivid colors, artisans choose their dyes carefully, frequently employing age-old techniques. Rich, subtle hues are added to the cloth, enhancing its natural beauty, by using natural dyes that are made from minerals, plant extracts, and roots. A deep, glossy color that holds true over time is guaranteed in the finished product since each batch of dye is painstakingly manufactured and tested to attain the ideal hue.

The Cashmere wool is ready for the designing stage once it has been dyed, when it is transformed from plain yarn to a gorgeously patterned cloth. Embroidery and hand weaving are two of the complex methods used at this stage. Using age-old techniques, talented artisans painstakingly create traditional Kashmiri designs including paisleys, flowers, and geometric patterns. Each thread is expertly intertwined to form intricate and visually attractive patterns during the weaving process, which is a monument to the region's artistry. Furthermore, intricate embroidery work frequently covers the completed pieces, giving layers of texture and pattern. Expert dyeing and elegant design come together to create Pashmina clothing that is not only opulent but also rich in cultural importance and creative expression, capturing the classic beauty of this

There are different journeys to the faith of Cashmere. Therefore, all the journeys are exquisitely memorable and meticulous.

The Hand Embroidery of Pashmina

The exquisite art form of hand stitching on Cashmere takes the opulent fabric to new levels of beauty and intricate design. This beautiful method entails expert needle workers painstakingly adding elaborate embroidery that reflects a rich cultural legacy to Pashmina shawls and clothing. Traditionally, the embroidery designs, which include themes like blossoming flowers, flowing vines, and intricate paisleys, are inspired by the scenic beauty of Kashmir. These designs skillfully combine historical and regional aesthetics, drawing inspiration from Mughal and Persian artwork. The dyed Pashmina is thereby passed on into the hands of artisans who with skilled hands perform magical performances on its surface. There is the use of needles, colourful threads, and the patience of years to perform the artistic creation.

Moreover, various forms of hand embroidery are done over the Pashmina shawls. An acquaintance of Pashmina with many styles of embroideries described them as a source of enlightenment for the Pashmina Shawl. Embroideries like; Sozni, Aari, Paper Mache, Tilla Dozi, and Aksi. Moreover, It has also taken several other patterns in its ways of creation like Scarves, Wraps, and Shawls.

The persistence of hand embroidery in Pashmina is evidence of the skill of Kashmiri weavers and their capacity to fuse custom with individuality. A basic article of clothing is elevated to a sumptuous declaration of cultural richness and refinement with each embroidered Pashmina shawl, which narrates a tale of artistry, patience, and talent. Through painstaking craftsmanship, Pashmina is preserved as more than just a fabric—rather, it is treasured as a symbol of grace and history.

Sozni

The Kashmir region is known for its exquisite and painstaking craftsmanship, and this delicate stitching style is called sozni hand embroidery. Usually used on Pashmina shawls and other opulent textiles, this embroidery method entails using a thin needle and thread to create intricate patterns and designs on fabric. Because of the precision needed in this art form, the title "Sozni" is derived from the Persian word "soz," which means "needle." Skillfully employing a range of techniques, such as satin and chain stitches, Sozni embroidery artisans create elaborate designs like paisleys, vines, and floral patterns. Each piece is a unique and magnificent creation due to the sophisticated and detailed Sozni embroidery that enhances the feel and visual attractiveness of the fabric.

Since Sozni needlework has been a part of Kashmiri culture for millennia, its artistic roots are profound. The skill and meticulousness of the process are what make it so unique; artists can take weeks or even months to finish a single piece. Because every stitch is placed with such care, the finished design is both exquisite and long-lasting. The patterns frequently combine conventional themes with avant-garde designs, taking cues from Persian art and nature. As a result, ordinary clothing is transformed into opulent, classic pieces of art with exquisitely embroidered fabric that displays the artist's talent and invention.

Aari

Hand embroidered aari, a traditional art from Kashmir in India, is well-known for its detailed and textured motifs. In order to create intricate, complex patterns on fabric, this embroidery method uses a specialized tool called a "aari," which is a hooked needle. With the help of the aari needle, craftspeople can create intricate and textured designs by working with a range of stitches, such as chain and knot stitches. Usually, the elaborate designs of the needlework elevate the texture and visual attractiveness of the cloth, particularly on high-end crafts like pashmina.

The utilization of a hooked needle to produce raised, textured designs is what gives Aari needlework its distinctive three-dimensional feel. This method frequently produces paisleys, flower patterns, and other classic motifs influenced by Persian art and the natural world. Every Aari needlework item is a work of art, demonstrating the artist's care and expertise as they painstakingly apply each thread to produce the intended effect. The end product is a gorgeously embellished fabric that fuses elegance with handcrafted skill, elevating Aari embroidery to the status of a treasured component of fine textiles and a widely recognized aspect of the area's cultural legacy.

Tilla Dozi

The height of Kashmiri textile artistry is embodied in the beautiful embroidery known as Tilla Dozi. This excellent technique creates rich patterns and designs that are both sumptuous and ageless through painstaking embroidery using gold or silver thread. Tilla Dozi, which means "gold embroidery" in Persian, derives from the employment of metallic threads that give the fabric a deep, glittering appearance. Fine textiles, like Pashmina shawls, are painstakingly stitched with these threads by artisans to create exquisite patterns, which frequently feature geometric, paisley, and floral motifs. Metallic threads are used to give the cloth a sense of grandeur and sophistication, in addition to improving its aesthetic appeal.

Tilla Dozi needlework is made by hand, and it takes a great deal of talent and accuracy to create. To guarantee that the silver threads are put securely and uniformly, each pattern is meticulously planned and carried out by artists using age-old methods. Because of its ability to catch light and shimmer with elegance, this fabric is much sought after for formal attire and special occasions. Tilla Dozi needlework celebrates the artistry and elegance of traditional fabrics while serving as a monument to Kashmir's rich cultural legacy and the timeless craftsmanship that has been handed down through the years.

The Luxurious Weave of Kani

The Kani Shawls, are crafted in the region of Kanihama in the Ganderbal district of the Kashmir Valley. Moreover, the shawls have been in the valley since the artistic era of Mughal Rule.

The finest of the wool brought to the handloom is magnificient. The manual weaving of the Kani shawl commenced quite different from the interweaving of a normal Pashmina Shawl. Moreover, the hair, hand-sorted and selected to preserve its quality and exquisitely.

The weaving of the Kani Shawl is very extensive and delicate at the same time. The weavers have the desire and skill to sustain their survival and create a fashion craving Kani Shawl. Henceforth, the weaving, preceded by the Kanis, wooden sticks of hand size made of forest wood known to as “poss tul”.  Thus, the Kanis have a colourful thread around to present their wefts in an already warped Shawl.

The premium type of pashmina known as "Kani Pashmina" is distinguished by its fine workmanship and elaborate pattern. In Kashmir, a particular kind of loom known as a "Kani" is essential to producing these opulent fabrics. Famous for its ornate patterns, Kani Pashmina shawls frequently have geometric patterns, paisleys, and exquisite floral themes. Using the Kani loom, these motifs are painstakingly woven into the cloth to produce incredibly colorful and complex patterns with a finely textured finish.

The weaving begins by galloping the colourful threads around the Kanis. The artisans skilfully do the work with the hands of the heavens. Also, a particular number of Kanis was used for the weaving of one Kani shawl. Around 70 to 100 Kanis are used up for the design of a Kani shawl.

The Ombre style

The amalgamation of various shades of colour procured on the Pashmina shawl itself with the skilled hand of Rangur, the dyer. Moreover, Ombre Pashmina not only produced by the variation of colours but also by the amalgamation of different colours in a distinct pattern.

The ombre look in pashmina puts a modern spin on this age-old fabric, giving its traditional elegance a dynamic, contemporary edge. Ombre, a French word for "shade" or "gradient," is a coloring method in which colors are blended smoothly from one hue to another to produce a gradient effect. This look in Pashmina is accomplished by a methodical and creative dying process in which several tones are progressively blended to create a visually arresting color shift.

Craftspeople first prepare the cloth with a base color to achieve an ombre look, and then they apply dyes in a gradient, making sure that the colors blend seamlessly. This method can produce dramatic shifts between clashing hues or delicate transitions between tints that are similar to one another. The end product is a sumptuous shawl or dress with a sophisticated yet flowing color scheme that uplifts the classic allure of pashmina. Fashion-forward people who value both tradition and innovation in their wardrobe are drawn to the ombre style because it not only makes the cloth more visually appealing but also provides a multitude of styling alternatives.

The Embellished Craft of Pashmina

Here comes two of the glared and elegant journeys of its artwork; The Laced Pashmina and the Swarovski Crystals Pashmina. In the craft of Laced Pashmina, the french Chantilly lace incorporated in the handcrafted Pashmina Shawls makes the onlooker awestruck by the intricate designed beauty.

Moreover, the handcrafted Pashmina shawls with embellished precious Swarovski crystals take the credit for authenticity and elegance. In addition, the elegance, and radiance near the creation of these Pashmina Shawls, are extraordinarily cherished all over the world of Art.

The Simple yet Elegant paths of Pashmina

The two elegant designs over the journey of Pashmina; Patterned Pashminas and the Reversible pattern Pashmina. These two different yet magnificent artworks over the hand-crafted Pashmina lets you drool over their presence.

Moreover, relishing various simple and elegant patterns over the Pashmina shawl by weaving various designs in the form of warps and wefts. Patterned Pashmina proves to be useful as well as luxuriously fashionable on any offering or occasion.

Moreover, woven with two different colours of threads on the handloom, the style of the reversible Pashmina Shawl is thus explicitly distinguished from any of the luxuries. The Reversible Pashmina Shawls pertain to the world of luxury as well as utility in terms of occasions and casual life.

Pashmina is the Craft not a brand

Although pashmina is commonly misunderstood as a brand, it is actually a traditional craft with a long history. Pashmina is the name given to the fine, soft wool that is taken from the undercoat of the Pashmina goat, and it comes from the high-altitude parts of the Himalayas, especially Kashmir. The word "Pashmina" itself comes from the Persian word "pashm," which means wool; it's not a brand name; rather, it represents the place of origin of the cloth. Over generations, trained artisans have refined the painstaking process of harvesting, spinning, and weaving to create the exquisite craft of pashmina. This procedure guarantees that the finished item will be an opulent, priceless textile that is well-known for its warmth and tenderness.

The workmanship and cultural legacy surrounding pashmina are what truly define the material. Hand-spinning the fine strands and weaving them into complex patterns, a labor-intensive artistic process used in the creation of Pashmina fabrics. The customs of the Kashmir region, where the methods and abilities have been handed down over the years, strongly ingrained with this workmanship. Whether it is a scarf, shawl, or garment, every Pashmina work embodies the rich cultural history. Also, an artisanal expertise of the area shows the commitment and craftsmanship of its creator.

Even if pashmina has become more popular and significant in the world market in the modern day. It is still important to acknowledge it as a traditional craft rather than just a brand. Pashmina's worth is found in the centuries-old methods and cultural customs. Seeing pashmina as a craft emphasizes how important it is to maintain these age-old techniques. And value the creativity that goes into each item rather than judging it only based on its commercial value.

Also read: ALONG THE PATH OF GRACEFUL PASHMINA

A Stop for the Flourishing of Luxury

Pashmina.com is the source for authentic and genuine Pashmina Shawls, Cashmere Scarves, and Cashmere Wraps. Here at the stop of Pashmina.com, we let the luxury take a flight to your closet to fill it with colours of fashion. Also, the Varieties and the standard quality of Pashmina deliver a look at the onlooker to mesmerize the soul from within.

Also read: WHERE CAN I BUY PASHMINA SHAWLS ONLINE?

Rich in scenic wonders, the paradise on Earth - Kashmir - is as rich in spectacular landscapes, water bodies, and other picturesque marvels, as it is rich in handicrafts. From handmade carpets to Papier Mache articles, walnut wood luxury products to the labyrinthine wicker willow, from copper carving to shawl making, Kashmir is the hub of breathtaking art forms. Yet amongst all, the most cherished throughout the world is shawl making. Pure Pashmina shawls handcrafted in this nostalgically alluring valley have spread their charm all across the world. Hence, women and men alike enshrine this luxury wrap accessory and have an exceeding inclination toward this art form. 

Pure Pashmina: Definition and History

Pashmina is the art of handcrafting luxury shawls, scarves and wraps from Ladakhi Cashmere. Pashmina shawls from Kashmir are world famous and this has been the case since the 15th century when they were first discovered.

It was a Sufi saint who had visited Kashmir from Persia. His name was Mir Syed Ali Hamdani, and locals later called him Shah E Hamdan. During his visit, he discovered this super fine and warm fleece growing over the body of a goat in Ladakh. He rendered a pair of socks to be made out of it. The socks were luxuriously warm, smooth and soft. This was presented to the then king of Kashmir - Zain ul Abideen - who then started the development of processing units of this fine wool. The wool was called Pashm back then (Pashm means soft gold in Persian), but now it is known as Cashmere wool or simply Cashmere. As such products made from Cashmere can be called Cashmere wraps as well as Pashmina wraps. These wraps made from Cashmere wool only are Pure Pashmina wraps. However, there are some products which are not pure.

Counterfeit Pashmina Shawls

As the demand for Pure Pashmina shawls from Kashmir increased much, especially during the 18th century, many traders started making fake Pashmina shawls. These were shawls made from pure Cashmere and some other fibres. Either wool was mixed with Cashmere to make a fake Pashmina shawl, or woollen shawls were treated with softeners and sold as Pashmina shawls. 

A new catastrophe by the name of Power Loom started in Kashmir, and Pashmina shawls were now made on a power loom. Note that the fine and gentle threads of Pashmina could only be handled manually, as the machine was too strong for a Cashmere fibre. The diameter of the fibre is just 12 to 16 microns, and as such, machine strain was too harsh for Pashmina. The power loom did ease the manual work, but the purity of Pashmina shawls was gone. Traders and manufacturers now used the power loom to weave the shawls from Cashmere threads, but mixed with them strengthening fibres of silk or nylon to avoid tearing of the Cashmere fibre. As such, these shawls remained just an imitation of the real art of Pashmina. But since these were cheap, owing to less use of Cashmere fibre,  people actually fell for this conspiracy!

The ordeal of Pure Pashmina shawl makers

Pashmina shawls from Kashmir are not just pieces of art. The artisans of Pure Pashmina blend unparalleled artistic skills with immense practical functionality. But the bastardization of this timeless fabric has many patrons being cheated as Pashmina is being misrepresented to them. This unique and distinctive artful work of Pashmina shawl making requires decades of training on all processes that go into making it. This includes training in spinning, weaving, shearing of wool from the goat and more. But the cheap replica wraps peddled by traders look exactly the same and even feel like Cashmere. Hence, these are damaging the art as well as the skill of its makers.

The ordeal of Pure Pashmina Patrons

Buyers, too, confused with fake and pure, have switched to alternatives. This has brought more cataclysm to the glory that the art enjoyed once when fakes were not available. Even though the fake shawl at times appears to be more alluring to the eyes, the real admirers of this ancient craft have always looked for pure pieces. In search of the original Pashmina shawl, often admirers get cheated and realise this when they already make purchases. this is disheartening for the audience, and many of them have decided to invest in Pashmina at all, owing to the deception.

Pure Pashmina shawls last for an entire lifetime. But when it comes to fake and counterfeit products, they hardly last for a few years. When the price paid by the customer is compared to the quality, it leads to more discouragement on part of the customer, and he/she promises to invest in Pashmina again. These episodes have given a big blow to the overall reputation of Pashmina art, and everyone today believes that it is extremely challenging to get a pure Pashmina.

Original, Pure and authentic Pashmina source?

For years now, there has been confusion among the masses about the terms Pashmina and Cashmere. To clear this, we go back in history, when Europeans fell in love with this fabric. Since they could not pronounce Kashmir as the locals did, they called the fine wool Cashmere, an anglicized version of the term Kashmir. Since then, the wool has been called Cashmere, and the transformation of this wool into luxury shawls, wraps or scarves is considered an art, and this art form is called Pashmina. 

It was the 18th century when replicas of Pashmina shawls emerged for the first time. The cheap replicas misrepresented the pure ones, and hence the art lost its prominence and appeal. Realizing the harm that the art had suffered, the local government decided to uplift the art of handcrafting luxurious shawls again. Hence in 2008, Pashmina was registered under the Geographical Indication (GI), and now the shawls came with a GI tag. As per the Quality Manual for Kashmiri Pashmina published by Craft Development Institute (CDI) Srinagar, this registration is an acknowledgement of the fact that Pashmina from Kashmir is unique and is produced in a particular area (Kashmir), according to some traditional knowledge and skills that are specific to this region.

For the Kashmiri Pashmina with GI, there are a few specifications. A shawl can qualify to be a Kashmiri Pashmina shawl if:

• It is made of 100% Cashmere obtained from the under fleece of Capra Hircus (goat) having fineness up to 16 Microns.
• The Cashmere thus obtained is hand spun in Kashmir using traditional methods.
• The Cashmere yarn from spinning is handwoven over traditional handloom, native to Kashmir

The Miraculous growth of Pashm

How miraculously the Capra Hircus goat of Ladakh grows Pashm is something to ponder over. It is the winter months when a soft and fine fleece covers the body of this rare goat and keeps it warm. Winters in Ladakh and harsh, and the temperature goes down to minus 40 degrees C. The answer to this cold is the growth of Pashm over the body of the goat, and help it survive these cruel days of winter. 

As soon as Spring arrives in the month of March, the pure Pashm fleece rises above the goat's skin, making it easy to remove. Hence, during the moulting season, the goats shed their undercoat naturally. Apart from natural shedding, several combs are used to remove this fleece and free the goat of this warm burden. This grows again as soon as winter shows its first signs. 

One Pashmina goat gives just 250 grams of Pashm on average. To handcraft a large shawl of 100*200 cm, wool from 3 to 4 goats is required. This wool is sent to Kashmir for processing.

Processing Pashm for Pure Pashmina Shawls

Pure Pashm threads from Ladakh arrive at Kashmir and need to be cleaned first. These are cleaned and sorted. Only the finest pure threads are used to make Pashmina shawls. Post cleaning, Pashm threads are soaked in a paste of rice powder and water. This gives these threads strength and shine, to be able to get processed later. After this process, the wool is again cleaned and sent for spinning.

Spinning is done by the womenfolk of Kashmir, who have decades of experience in the same. They load the threads onto a spinning wheel, and with the movements of their hands and the wheel, lumps of wool get transformed into fine yarn. The yarn is exceptionally soft, fine, and delicate. It measures just 12 to 16 microns. This yarn is perfect to be handwoven by men.

The yarn is sent for weaving. Men mount fine yarn onto the handloom and keep hand-weaving the same for a few days. After 3 or 4 days, plain Pashmina shawls come into existence. These are warm, lightweight, and ready to get further processed. Shawls can now be embroidered post washing them in spring water manually by expert washermen. Pure Pashmina shawls, embellished in a number of graceful ways, are now packed and sent for sale.

Importance of buying Pure Pashmina

It is not a choice to buy pure or fake Pashmina. It is in fact a necessity to buy only Pure Pashmina shawls. The reasons for this are many:

• Only pure Pashmina shawls are timeless. Fake pieces will wither in a few years, and your investment will get wasted.
• It is just Pure Pashmina shawls that are exceptionally warm. Fake shawls, which are a blend of synthetic fibres and Cashmere fibres do not provide such luxurious warmth.
• Pashmina shawls are expensive. No one wants to invest thousands of dollars for a shawl that is not even 100% Cashmere.
• Handmade is always special. Handmade pure Pashmina shawls are perfect gifts for your loved ones, and also for your own self when you need a little pampering. But fake shawls are machine-made. Neither do they serve as special gifts for your beloved, nor are they worth your personal attention and investment.
• Pure Pashmina is sustainable. this makes them worthy of every penny you pay for them. They are safe for the planet, its people and yourself. Pure Pashmina from Kashmir serves and empowers underprivileged women whose only source of income is spinning Cashmere.

As we conclude

All we can suggest to customers is to always invest in Pure Pashmina shawls. Here are a few ways to invest in pure Pashmina shawls.

If are new to Pashmina, and do not understand how to identify a pure Pashmina shawl, here are a few steps to keep in mind when you go out shopping.

Check the GI Tag

In 2008, the government bestowed a Geographical Indication (GI) stamp on pure Pashmina shawls. This was done to preserve this centuries-old art form. The GI stamp is only found on Pure Pashmina shawls and lies around the corners. Hence, if you find a GI stamp on a shawl, you are holding the purest form of Pashmina you can ever buy.

Also read: WHAT IS AN INDIAN PASHMINA?

Ask the seller for a purity certificate

If the GI stamp is not available, the seller should be able to produce a purity certificate, which mentions that the shawls have been certified by the concerned department. The department which is responsible for producing these certificates in Kashmir is the Craft Development Institute (CDI) in Srinagar.

Buying from Authentic Sellers

There is no doubt that newbies in the market won't provide a pure Pashmina. But it is always better to trust the long-living players in the market. Always check for the customer base of a particular seller, ask from his customers, and then only trust someone to provide the purest Pashmina shawls. However, it is better to check for GI tags and certificates first.

The love and care of a Pure Pashmina shawl will accompany you for an entire lifetime. A 30-year-old Pashmina shawl will tell you why mothers would gift their newlywed daughters their own Pashmina shawls. These would be a part and parcel of ancient traditions and the glorious heritage treasures that Pashmina has long been the crown of. No doubt about the fact that European royals and noble women would own hundreds of Pashmina shawls, and pass them on to their future generations as the most elegant souvenir, a reminder of a wonderful past.

Also read: HOW EXPENSIVE IS PASHMINA?

Cashmere is the finest wool procured from Ladakh. Several breeds produce Cashmere wool but the finest is procured from Changra Goats. They are also called Kashmir Goats as the finest Cashmere from them is crafted in Kashmir. The crafting is called Pashmina Art. There are three main styles in Pashmina Art viz; Cashmere Scarves, Cashmere Wraps and Pashmina Shawls. There is beauty and an array of designs in each Pashmina Style. All three styles have unique and premium qualities making them significantly ethereal. Often, people have several questions before buying the epitome of Pashmina Accessory. Therefore, we have gathered with the Cashmere Scarves luxury to make you love what you buy without having any second thoughts. For that, let us take you on a journey of Pashmina Art.

Procurement of the finest Cashmere takes place

Cashmere is the fine and premium quality wool from the Ladakhi Changra breed of Goats. The goats dwell at the feet of Changthangi mountain of Ladakh. The temperature drops to a minimum in harsh winters in the region of Changhthanghi. Therefore, the Goats develop and thick pelage of wool over their bodies. Thus, protecting themselves from the harsh cold. Seasons change, and likewise, the climate changes. Thereby, the Changra goats shed off the wool by rubbing against rocks and trees. The herders of the Changpa tribe also manually comb out the thick wool. This wool is called the finest Cashmere wool. The goats are raised particularly for the Cashmere wool.

Afterwards, the wool is packed in small packets to transfer to the paradise of earth, the Kashmir Valley. The valley receives the Cashmere wool with wide-open arms of creativity and admiration. Therefore, the valley works upon the finest Cashmere with the high skill of artisans. The households of the valley have revived and preserved the Pashmina Art most uniquely.

Art of Pashmina

The Cashmere wool in the valley goes through a very serene process of cleaning. The process is done manually to strain off dirt, and dust from the finest wool. Thereof, the cleaned, dried Cashmere wool is spun across the wheel of wood called yinder in the local language. Hence, meticulous yarn is obtained. The spinning process is mostly done by women of the valley. They excerpt the time from their daily world to properly spin the finest Cashmere wool.

The spinning process moves forward and brings the Cashmere yarn to the handlooms of the valley. The menfolk work over the handlooms with tremendous strength and patience. The beautiful technique of weaving takes place by several artisans. Therefore, the Cashmere fabric emerges out of the loom of the Kashmir valley. After the weaving, the woven Cashmere is dyed as per the requirement. A spectrum of colours, naturally made in the sphere of the dyers is elegant. Thus, every colour with each shade and tone confers to the Cashmere with more. 

The process of designing commences as soon as the faith of the finest Cashmere is adorned. The marvellous hands of artisans whirl in the designs and sing songs of art on the finest Cashmere. The surrounding aura of the valley signifies the profound design in diverse ways. There are three main styles in Pashmina Art; Cashmere Wraps, Cashmere Scarves and Pashmina Shawls. It is to be noted that Pashmina Art is the crafting of the finest Ladakhi Cashmere to a diverse range of accessories in distinct designs.

Also read: IS IT WORTH BUYING CASHMERE?

Exquisite qualities of Cashmere Scarves

After the weaving on the handlooms of the valley, the Cashmere Scarves stepped ahead on the way towards the colourful journey. The Cashmere Scarves are the elegant form of Pashmina Art to depict the artwork of elegance. Moreover, there is a miraculous companionship of various shades of colours on the Cashmere Scarves. The artwork is done by the skilled hand of Rangur, the dyer.

Moreover, Cashmere Scarves are produced in a variety of different patterns, and colours. The harmony between the dyes of different patterns gives a Cashmere Scarf a radiance of luxury and elegance. The handcrafted Cashmere goes on the path of Luxury fashion because of the versatility of Pashmina Art. Also, the intricate weave of chashm_e_bulbul/ diamond weave gives a texture to the presence. The qualities of Cashmere Scarves that make them stand out are;

• The Cashmere Scarves are the Scarves that go well with every attire. Therefore, heightening the style quotient to levels.
• The Cashmere scarves given the requisite shades of colours by the skilled dyer are explicit. The exquisite essence of these Cashmere Scarves is well defined in the world of craft through Pashmina Art.
• The versatile Pashmina Art of the valley confers to the creation of the opulent Cashmere Scarves in the most credible way. Accordingly, the authenticity of the Cashmere Scarves is worn over in all seasons on the wearers.
• Cashmere Scarves equally adorn Men as well as women. There is a classy nature in each Cashmere Scarf.
• There is a tinge of traditional as well as contemporary designs in Cashmere Scarves serving each generation with utmost grace.

Our Endless Collection of Cashmere Scarves

Pashmina.com has taken up a voyage towards the reviving of the finest Pashmina. The exquisite Pashmina belongs to the valley of Kashmir. After starting the journey from Ladakh, the finest Cashmere is crafted in Kashmir. We have been diligent in handcrafting our luxurious collection in front of our eyes. Having one of our masterpieces will make a part of our journey along with the artisans and heritage of Kashmir Valley.

Also read: HOW TO WASH CASHMERE SCARF?

Buying a Pashmina is an ultimate struggle because of fraud around the world. Therefore, it is a big concern for all people. We have made the path easy for you to distinguish between an authentic seller and a fraud. There are several ways to buy a Pashmina. Firstly, from online platforms. Secondly, from a local seller. But in both cases, there is a high risk of getting fraud. Therefore, it's your responsibility to look out for various things before buying a Pashmina from any platform. You have to go through all the things posted on the website as well as check for the criteria that a Pure Pashmina should have.

Pashmina.com is a platform where we are transparent about the processes of Pashmina procuring and crafting. There is an utmost authentic reflection of what we as a seller have for customers. We are accountable for our masterpieces by adjoining them to the realm of luxury. We have a uniquely defined ethical procurement and sustainable crafting in Kashmir. By looking at our way of adoring Pashmina, it will make your way to the path of Pashmina an easy thing.

How do we procure the finest Cashmere from Ladakh?

Cashmere is the fine and premium quality wool from the Ladakhi Changra breed of Goats. The goats dwell at the feet of Changthangi mountain of Ladakh. The temperature drops to a minimum in harsh winters in the region of Changhthanghi. Therefore, the Goats develop and thick pelage of wool over their bodies. Thus, protecting themselves from the harsh cold. Seasons change, and likewise, the climate changes. Thereby, the Changra goats shed off the wool by rubbing against rocks and trees. The herders of the Changpa tribe also manually comb out the thick wool. This wool is called the finest Cashmere wool. The goats are raised particularly for the Cashmere wool.

We, at pashmina.com, procure the finest Cashmere from the rarest breed of goats called Changra Goats. Therefore, only around 80 to 170 gms of Ladakhi Cashmere are produced during a year. Therefore, considered the rarest. We bring that finest Cashmere to you in the form of Cashmere Wraps, Cashmere Scarves and Pashmina Shawls.

Afterwards, the wool is packed in small packets to transfer to the paradise of earth, the Kashmir Valley. The valley receives the Cashmere wool with wide-open arms of creativity and admiration. Therefore, the valley works upon the finest Cashmere with the high skill of artisans. The households of the valley have revived and preserved the Pashmina Art most uniquely.

Art of Pashmina

The Cashmere wool in the valley goes through a very serene process of cleaning. The process is done manually to strain off dirt, and dust from the finest wool. Thereof, the cleaned, dried Cashmere wool is spun across the wheel of wood called yinder in the local language. Hence, meticulous yarn is obtained. The spinning process is mostly done by women of the valley. They excerpt the time from their daily world to properly spin the finest Cashmere wool.

The spinning process moves forward and brings the Cashmere yarn to the handlooms of the valley. The menfolk work over the handlooms with tremendous strength and patience. The beautiful technique of weaving takes place by several artisans. Therefore, the Cashmere fabric emerges out of the loom of the Kashmir valley. After the weaving, the woven Cashmere is dyed as per the requirement. A spectrum of colours, naturally made in the sphere of the dyers is elegant. Thus, every colour with each shade and tone confers to the Cashmere with more. 

The process of designing commences as soon as the faith of the finest Cashmere is adorned. The marvellous hands of artisans whirl in the designs and sing songs of art on the finest Cashmere. The surrounding aura of the valley signifies the profound design in diverse ways. There are three main styles in Pashmina Art;  Cashmere Wraps, Cashmere Scarves and Pashmina Shawls. It is to be noted that Pashmina Art is the crafting of the finest Ladakhi Cashmere to a diverse range of accessories in distinct designs.

Designing the Styles of Pashmina.com

The process of designing commences as soon as the faith of the finest Cashmere is adorned. The marvellous hands of artisans whirl in the designs and sing songs of art on the finest Cashmere. The surrounding aura of the valley signifies the profound design in diverse ways. There are three main styles in Pashmina Art; Cashmere Wraps, Cashmere Scarves and Pashmina Shawls. It is to be noted that Pashmina Art is the crafting of the finest Ladakhi Cashmere to a diverse range of accessories in distinct designs. We have a wide style range in Pashmina Art.

Cashmere Wraps

The handcrafted Cashmere Wraps are the accessories that ravishingly explicit the beauty within the creation of a particular wrap. In the world of modernization, contemporary designs in the art of Pashmina are a must. Moreover, Pashmina in the form of wraps has reached heights unending as the hand-crafted wraps bestowed glamour in various directions of fashion and luxury. There are several designs and patterns in the creation of Cashmere Wraps viz., Solid Cashmere wraps, Ombre wraps, Laced Wraps, Swarovski Wraps, Printed Wraps, Embroidered Wraps, and Kani Pashmina Wraps.

The authenticity of the rarest and finest Cashmere is seen in the shadow of the Cashmere Wraps. The elegance of the creation of sustainable fashion is subsumed in the creation of the radiant and ravishing wraps that go well with every attire of any kind. The Cashmere Wraps are among the Pure high-quality luxurious masterpieces that can be a revere to the presence of whosoever is wearing them. The opulent Cashmere Wraps along with the creativity and hard work of artisans are the exquisite and extraordinary styles of Pashmina in the field of serene craft.

Cashmere Scarves

A scarf is a square piece of clothing draped around the neck or shoulders. The explicit styles with these finest Cashmere. The premium quality Cashmere scarves bring out the aura of colourful and elegant luxury. The versatile styles of unique designs of Cashmere Scarves are examples of high-class fashion. They cater to all genders with exquisite collections. The artisans work upon each masterpiece with precision. Thus, providing serene exclusiveness.

The Cashmere Scarves are the most stylish and elegant forms of Pashmina accessory to buy. Moreover, belonging to the class of modernization in its Art, these are most cherished and admired for their unique utility and style for everyday life. Moreover, there are diverse styles in the creation of Pashmina Scarves. Each describes beauty without limits. The luxurious Pashmina Scarves are worn to beautify the beautiful distinct patterns. The Ombre Scarves look upon among the souls with the gratification of being the most opulent significance. The Swarovski crystals Cashmere Scarves relishes over the entire modernization and contemporary crafts.

Pashmina Shawls

Pashmina Shawls are versatile accessories in Pashmina Art. They cater to the people in the most versatile ways. The luxury of each design, filled with the glory of intricacy is the finest. Thus, there are diverse designs viz; Kani Pashmina, Solid Pashmina, Reversible Pashmina, Patterned Pashmina and Embroidered Pashmina, Ombre, Shibori, Printed etc. All the designs crave the intricacy given by skilled artisans. There are distinct ways to wear every design. The masterpieces, designed with diligence and precision by the artisans of the Valley are exquisite. Pashmina Shawls serve the purpose of warmth and eloquence at the same time. Every soul deserves its happy fashion go-to. Therefore, Pashmina belongs to the clan of authentic fashion with glamour.

Pashmina Shawls tend to make the journey of a wearer more beautiful in terms of luxury and warmth. Therefore, the Shawls are the ultimate epitome of luxury crafted in the Kashmir Valley. The endless collection of Pashmina Shawls is directly taken from the artisan's lap to fulfil your way of fashion and grace.

Also read: KASHMIRI SHAWLS IN MID-VICTORIAN NOVELS

Pashmina.com cherish the origin of Pashmina in Kashmir

Not only do we revive the culture of handicrafts of Pashmina in Kashmir, but we also provide a platform for the artisans who have been into the craft for generations. You will be able to define their work after knowing about the origin of how Pashmina came into existence.

It all started when a Persian saint was travelling across the globe. Mir Syed Ali Hamdani was a sage from the Middle East. The footprints of a saint Mir Syed Ali Hamdani from the middle east came to Kashmir with 700 craftsmen to adorn the beauty of the valley and to spread the holy message. He rested his feet in the region of Changhthanghi Ladakh. Thus, the saint landed its appearance in the Changhthangi Mountain in Ladakh. While perceiving nature, he locked his eyes on the Goat of marvellous wool. Awestruck with the softness and fineness of the wool, he made socks out of it and gifted them to the Sultan Zain-ul-Abideen of Kashmir Valley.

Perceiving the beauty of Cashmere wool, suggested making an industry that cultivates the Pashmina in desirable styles. Therefore, people became artisans from the 13th century till this day. The craft of Pashmina is bliss for artisans.

Also read: TURNING THE WAYS FOR THE PLEDGE OF FINEST CASHMERE

Pashmina.com is the platform for authentic Pashmina

We, at pashmina curate authentic Pashmina accessories for you to buy by following the cherished steps of procurement and crafting. We cherish our artisans of Kashmir Valley and present you with our unique and premium collection of Pashmina Art. Indeed! Pashmina.com is the platform for buying authentic and pure Pashmina.

Also read: WHY PASHMINA SHAWLS ARE FAMOUS IN INDIA?

It was around the 15th century when the art of Pashmina was discovered for the first time. But during this period, no shawl, as such, was doubtful, as synthetic fibre hardly existed. The art was at its zenith, and artisans put their heart and soul into making one single piece, even if it took a few years to complete. But soon machines took over, and the invention of synthetic fibre became known. Unfortunately, a large number of dishonest traders began mixing pure Cashmere fibre with this synthetic one.

Power looms, the new antagonists in the world of ancient art, needed string fibre to pass through its cruel mechanism, which Cashmere was not. Hence, nylon and silk began to be mixed with Cashmere, and as such fake shawls came into existence. Kashmiri pashmina, which was known for its soft, smooth, and handmade weave, now became common like any other wrap accessory, as customers found “nothing special” in it. 

Kashmiri Pashmina in the Present Times

In the current times, Kashmiri Pashmina has its competitors from a number of places where the Himalayan range is present. Kashmir produces the least percentage of pure Cashmere wool, while China is the giant in Pashmina products. China is known to produce almost 70 per cent of the world’s Cashmere, while Mongolia stands in second place as far as Cashmere production is concerned. The 10 per cent that is left,  comes from other places. However, the best quality Cashmere is produced in Kashmir, even though it accounts for the least amount out of the total Cashmere production in the world (less than 1 per cent).

The Himalayas are home to a number of varieties of Cashmere goats. It is, hence, not just Ladakh where the Cashmere goats are found, but a number of places in China, Nepal, and Afghanistan where this species is found. 

Changthangi goats: Changthangi goat is the species of Cashmere goat which is found in Changthang, Ladakh. It is reared in Ladakh and a few parts of Tibet.

Malra Goats: Malta goats are found in Kargil. It was just some 5-6 years ago when Malra was found to have the potential to produce Cashmere, albeit of lower quality as compared to Changthangi goat. 

Chegu Goat: The Cashmere producing goats are found in Himachal Pradesh (Kinnaur area), and high-altitude areas of Uttarkashi, Chamoli and Pithoragarh, districts of Uttaranchal bordering Tibet. 

Chyangra Goat: The goat-producing Cashmere wool found in the areas surrounding Nepal is called Chyangra.

The Geographical Indication:

Kashmir’s Pashmina shawls are considered the best quality shawl, out of all other varieties of the same. To protect and honour this badge, Kashmiri Pashmina was given the Geographical Indication (GI) as an authenticity stamp. The GI mark is a certification of the given product ascertaining that its unique qualities are not found anywhere else in the world and that it belongs to a certain geographical area. Hence, a GI mark on a Pashmins shawl indicates that the shawl has been made in Kashmir and that it has some qualities that its counterparts do not have. Here are the qualities that a GI-marked shawl has

• It is handspun on a traditional charkha or spinning wheel, called ‘Yinder’ locally.
• It is handwoven over wooden traditional handloom
• The fibre used to make the shawl has a micron count of 12-16 microns

Since the GI mark came into existence, it helped the local artisans in a number of ways. Their craft was not safe from counterfeit products and deceitful hands.

Why Choose GI?

• It helps with the prosperity of local craftsmen, who are the only ones to produce pure Pashmina shawls using traditional meticulous and time-consuming methods. 
• GI mark helps identify a pure Kashmiri Pashmina, hence saving consumers from falling prey to fake Pashmina sellers.  
• Pashmina gained its lost glory back, and now fake shawl sellers have no option but to sell their fake shawls at lower prices, or honestly tell the customer about its machine making. 

The Ring Test and its fallacy

As soon as the news of fake and machine-made Pashminas spread like wildfire, everyone started doubting their own purchased pieces. Is my shawl pure? Have I been cheated? Did my money go waste? These were some common first thoughts that came to an average customer’s mind. Even the customers who had purchased a shawl before the machine mess occurred were confused. Their shawls were as pure as anything. No one ever thought about if this is pure or fake, because fake never existed. But fake shawls had spread so much, that even these customers began doubting their pre-machine pure Pashminas. On top of this, the Pashmina shawl was known to be a huge investment, and hence many refrained from a future buy.

As confusion spread all over, a few traders came up with a ring test. As per the test, if a Pashmina shawl was able to pass through a finger ring, it was pure and original. Hence, whichever shawls passed through a ring, their owners became content, until even this test was deemed to be fake.

Soon, fabric specialists came up with their own theory that the ring test wasn't authentic to check the purity of a Pashmina shawl. This is because, with the advent of fabric softeners, even the harshest of wools could be passed through a ring. Hence, the ring test would just showcase how soft a shawl is, and maybe aesthetically lure customers. But as far as purity of Pashmina is concerned, the ring test is the least dependable

How to Check the purity of Pashmina?

The purity of Pashmina shawls has become easy to check ever since the GI mark came into existence. One has to simply check for the GI mark, which lies around any of the corners of the shawl. If you find it, rest assured that you are wearing the purest shawl, made from high-quality Cashmere. 

However, if there is no GI tag on the shawl, that surely does not mean that the shawl is fake. If your seller can provide you with a certificate of quality assurance, then your shawl is pure. The certificate is issued by the Craft Development Institute (CDI), Srinagar. If this certificate lies with your seller, he is authentic and is selling original shawls. But this is when you are going to purchase a shawl now, or in the near future. What about the shawls that you already own? Are they pure? Is your Pashmina authentic? Is your Pashmina pure/original? 

Thankfully, there are a number of tests to be conducted on your Pashmina shawls to check their purity. Here are some of them enlisted. 

Purity tests for Pashmina

• The Burn Test: If you cut a piece from the end fringes of your shawl, and burn them over a candle, it should give out a natural hair odour. Also, the ashes acquired post-burning should be powdery and have a matte appearance. If so, your Pashmina is pure. 
• The weave of the shawl: If you hold your shawl against a strong light source, its weave will be visible. Take note of the weave, and if you find it irregular, know that it is handmade. An irregular weave can be only handmade, as the machine weave is properly aligned and regular. It is this uneven weave that makes Pashmina an heirloom piece.
• Glow and Shine: Pashmina shawls are made from a natural fibre. Hence their surface should not be shiny, but matte. If your Pashmina gives out too much shine, it might be containing silk or nylon fibre. A little shine might be natural with a smooth fabric, but too much shine shows obvious signs of foreign material. 
• A lab test: If there is a lab around your area, you can get your shawl checked for micron count. If the micron count is 12 to 16, the shawl is made from Cashmere. If the count lies above 16 until 20, the shawl is made from low-quality Cashmere, and not Ladakhi Cashmere. But a count above 20 might mean that the shawl isn't made from Cashmere at all. 

Also read: KASHMIRI PASHMINA - PURITY TESTING AND THE GI PASHMINA

The superiority of GI Pashmina

A GI shawl frees a customer from all worries and doubts. If you do not own a Pashmina shawl and are planning to buy one, make sure you invest in a GI Pashmina shawl. It is hand spun, hand woven and has the least micron count. 

GI was introduced to protect and preserve the centuries-old art of handcrafting Pashmina, as soon as they realised that this heritage art is losing its glory. 

Also read: THE CRAZE FOR CASHMERE IN 19TH-CENTURY FRANCE

How expensive is pashmina? It is a question that arises in the mind of everyone while buying a Pashmina. Pashmina is the ethical crafting of the finest Cashmere procured from Ladakh. Pashmina is indeed expensive because of certain characteristics. Beyond the essence of luxury, Pashmina craft is part of the heritage of Kashmir Valley. The endless crafting includes several processes that make a Pashmina accessory an exquisite quality of being luxurious. Let's have a look at its ethical procurement and hand-crafting.

Procuring the finest Cashmere

The creation begins in the horizons of the Ladakh region. The Changhthanghi mountain of the Ladakh region has the coldest temperature in winter. A rare breed of Goats dwells on its feet. The goats are of the Changra breed. Also called the Kashmir Goats. These are medium-sized goats with two twisted horns. The Changra goats develop soft thick wool on their bodies to combat the low temperature. The wool is descriptively soft in appearance and thick in volume. Moreover, the wool is shed off during the summertime by the goats themselves against rocks and trees. Manually, the wool, also combed out by the herders of the Changpa tribe. The wool is called the finest Cashmere wool.

Crafting a Pashmina Shawl

After the Cashmere wool reaches the valley of Kashmir, it undergoes the process of cleaning. The Cashmere wool is thoroughly cleaned to get the dirt, dust, and grime out. After the meticulous cleaning, the Cashmere wool goes into the journey of Spinning. The process of transforming the Cashmere wool into fine Cashmere yarn is Spinning. The process is precisely done by the womenfolk of the valley on a wooden wheel called yinder. They move the wheel in a circular motion with one hand and with another hand they elongate the wool into yarn. Thus, creating fine Cashmere yarn from the Cashmere wool.

Afterward, the Cashmere yarn, transferred to the local workshops/karkhanas for the process of weaving is fine. Weaving is the process of precisely looming warps and wefts to create a thin and soft fabric of Cashmere. Done on the handloom made of forest wood. The handloom is worked upon by highly skilled artisans. The artisans work upon the handloom by simultaneously using their feet and hands to create the woven Cashmere fabric. Mainly, done by the menfolk of the valley. Thus, giving the required dimensions to craft it into a Pashmina Shawl.

Also read: PASHMINA EMBROIDERIES | THE EXQUISITE CRAFTSMANSHIP

How Pashmina Craft came into existence?

Mir Syed Ali Hamdani was a sage from the Middle East. The footprints of a saint Mir Syed Ali Hamdani from the middle east came to Kashmir with 700 craftsmen to adorn the beauty of the valley and to spread the holy message. He rested his feet in the region of Changhthanghi Ladakh. Thus, the saint landed its appearance in the Changhthangi Mountain in Ladakh.

While perceiving nature, he locked his eyes on the Goat of marvelous wool. Awestruck with the softness and fineness of the wool, he made socks out of it and gifted them to the Sultan Zain-ul-Abideen of Kashmir Valley. Perceiving the beauty of Cashmere wool, suggested making an industry that cultivates the Pashmina in desirable styles. Even the name Pashmina, derived from the Persian word, pashm, meaning "the soft gold" is exquisite in being.

Also read: 5 MUST-HAVE KASHMIRI SHAWLS FOR ALL TIMES!

Exquisite reasons why Pashmina is Expensive

Pashmina is the crafting of the finest Cashmere procured manually from Ladakh. Firstly, all the processes of procurement in Ladakh are done manually by herders of the Changpa tribe. Secondly, the Changra goats are the rarest species of goats only reared in Changhthanghi. Thirdly, the Goats produce the fine Cashmere wool once every year. Therefore, only around 80 to 170 gms of Ladakhi Cashmere are produced during a year. Therefore, considered the rarest. Also, other breeds of it produce several times more as there is almost 400 million Cashmere eliciting Goats all over the world. Consequently, the production caters to the manufacture of different styles like Pashmina Shawls, Cashmere Scarves, and Cashmere Wraps.

Lastly, the crafting in Kashmir Valley is the ultimate beauty of Pashmina. All the processes done in by hand in Kashmir from Cleaning to designing. The beautiful aspect of Pashmina is the various hand- designing including patterns, Weaves, Dyes, and Embroideries.

Also read: WHAT COLOUR IS PASHMINA?