Why Is Cashmere So Expensive

Why Is Cashmere So Expensive? The True Cost of Luxury Wool

Soft, warm and effortlessly elegant, cashmere has long been considered the height of luxury in knitwear. Whether it’s a delicate scarf, a timeless jumper or a wrap you save for special occasions, cashmere feels like something you treasure not just wear. But with price tags that often far exceed regular wool or cotton, it’s no surprise people wonder: why is cashmere so expensive?

The answer lies in how it’s sourced, how little of it is available, and the effort involved in transforming it from raw fibre into something wearable. Cashmere’s price isn’t just about brand labels or boutique mark-ups it’s tied directly to nature, craftsmanship and scarcity.

Where Cashmere Comes From

Cashmere is not a type of sheep woo lit comes from a specific breed of goat, most commonly found in Mongolia, China, and parts of the Himalayas. These goats grow a soft undercoat to survive harsh winters, which is then shed naturally in spring. It’s this undercoat the ultra-fine, downy fibre that becomes cashmere.

Each goat only produces around 150–200 grams of usable cashmere per year. To make a single jumper, you need the fleece of three to four goats. Compare that with regular sheep’s wool, which is shorn in far greater quantities per animal, and it becomes clear why cashmere is so rare.

The Harvesting Process Is Labour-Intensive

Unlike sheep’s wool, which can be removed by shearing, cashmere must be collected by hand-combing the goat during its natural moulting season. This is a slow, meticulous process that respects the animal’s cycle but requires hours of skilled labour per goat.

After collection, the raw fibre is sorted and de-haired removing coarse outer hairs from the fine undercoat. Only the finest fibres are kept for clothing. The sorting is often done by hand and adds significantly to the production cost. Anything left over may be used in lower-grade garments, but the softest, longest fibres are saved for premium pieces.

Cashmere Is Rare and Highly Sought After

With limited supply and growing demand, cashmere sits in a league of its own when it comes to luxury fibres. High-street shops may offer cashmere blends at lower prices, but true, high-grade cashmere remains a niche product. Global production each year is far lower than that of other wools, and this natural scarcity drives up the cost.

The finest fibres, measuring under 15 microns in diameter, are often reserved for top-end brands and specialist mills. These ultra-fine strands not only feel softer against the skin but also provide exceptional warmth without bulk one of cashmere’s most loved qualities.

Processing and Spinning Adds Value

Once harvested, raw cashmere undergoes an extensive transformation. The fibres must be cleaned, sorted by length and thickness, and then spun into yarn before being dyed and knitted or woven. Premium manufacturers invest in gentle spinning techniques and traditional weaving methods to preserve the fibre’s softness and strength.

Italy, Scotland and Japa are home to some of the world’s most respected cashmere mills, where generations of textile expertise are poured into every stage of production. The result is yarn with a smooth handle, subtle sheen and lasting durability but it comes at a price.

Cashmere Production Is Sensitive to Climate and Ethics

Cashmere production is closely tied to nature. Climate change and overgrazing in Mongolia have led to fluctuations in quality and quantity. Goats raised in colder, harsher climates tend to produce better-quality fibre, but environmental pressures have made sustainable herding more difficult.

Brands that invest in ethical sourcing ensuring fair treatment of herders, proper land management, and animal welfare often pay a premium for their raw materials. This cost is reflected in the final garment, but it also helps preserve the future of the industry and the fragile ecosystems where these goats live.

Not All Cashmere Is Created Equal

When buying cashmere, price differences often reflect quality. Lower-priced cashmere may use shorter fibres, which are more prone to pilling and wear. These garments may feel soft in the shop but quickly lose their shape or develop bobbles after a few wears.

High-quality cashmere, on the other hand, is made with long fibres that resist pilling and hold their shape beautifully. These pieces tend to be denser, warmer, and more durable—even improving with age if cared for properly. That’s why some jumpers cost £80 while others are closer to £400 it’s not just about branding, it’s about the grade of the fibre, how it’s spun, and how it’s finished.

Final Thoughts: The Luxury of Time, Skill and Scarcity

Cashmere is expensive because it’s rare, labour-intensive, and made with care at every step from the windswept mountains of Mongolia to the looms of Europe. It’s a material rooted in patience and tradition, offering a warmth and softness that cheaper fabrics can’t match.

For many, owning a cashmere garment is less about fashion and more about experience: the feel, the longevity, and the quiet comfort that comes with knowing you’re wearing something truly special. With the right care, a quality cashmere piece can last for decades making it not just a luxury, but a worthwhile investment.