Friday, July 17, 2009

Pashmina Shawls - Royal Indian Fibre

Elegant is the word for Pashmina - The Royal Indian Fibre. It was once upon a time only the prerogative of the royal family. The appreciative value of Pashmina shawls had spread so widely that even the roman
emperor Caesar was said to have this type of a shawl. So was it the precious possesion of Napolean Bonaparte.

Pashmina Shawls


It is said that in 1776 Abdullah Khan, the Afghan Governor of Kashmir gifted an exquisite Pashmina shawl to Sayyid Yahya, a visitor from Baghdad. Yahya presented the shawl to the Khedive in Egypt who in turn, presented it to Napoleon Bonaparte. Napoleon found the shawl fit to adorn the shoulders of the future Empress, Josephine.

Pashmina Shawls


Apparently, Pashmina is prized by kings and nobles and is the pride of bride’s trousseau in the past can be often referred to as the 'diamond' of all fibres. Perhaps, nothing epitomizes the glorious history of Himalayan craftsmanship, as warmly and beautifully, as does the Pashmina, the Tibetan name for Cashmere, the softest and most luxurious wool in the world.

Pashmina is harvested from the Himalayan region spread in India andits Northern neighbours. It is known for its warmth and long life.

The uniquely soft fleece is hand combed every spring from the soft wool from the neck and chest of the “Chyangra” (Capra Hircus), the Himalayan mountain goat. The goat lives at altitude of 12,000 to

14,000 feet. At such heights, where temperature goes down to -10 Centigrades, the goat survives as it is bestowed by nature with a unique, very thin, short inner coat of hair, which is the best insulation in the world. This inner coat of hair is Pashmina.

The word "pashm" means "inside". The fibre is less than 15 microns in thickness (whereas a human hair is 75 microns thick). Each goat produces 3-8 ounces of Pashmina per year.

As called the "fibre for kings", Pashimina achieved a zenith when it cast its spell over the European royalty during the legacy of the Great Mughals.

In India, Pashmina Shawls are a real fashion statement and have remained as evergreen fashionable item.

Pashmina Shawl is the most treasured material made from the fibre and is well known as the cashmere shawl after the name of the place it originated – Kashmir. It is made from the cashmere yarns and have silk
threads imbibed in them. That’s how it gets its lustre. As the material comes from animal furs that survive the thickest of cold weathers these shawls keep you warm no matter how sore the cold weather is. So while complementing your dress these shawls also protect you.


In comparison to other materials that keep you warm these shawls are much lighter but do that thick blankets job. No doubt it is a world wonder. Now imagine this gorgeous material emblazoned with stones. Or
with mild embroidery. The ultimate look is luscious and exciting. The colours that they are available, give the shawl an even enchanting look. Mostly pink, white and black are heavily in demand.

With the availability of a large variety of shawls, a blend of pashmina and silk in 70:30 ratio respectively. The silk gives classic Pashmina a more slender silhouette, great drape and an elegant sheen, lightweight and softer feel. This you would wear for the ultimate luxury and warmth.

High quality synthetic dyes from international corporations which gives high wash and light fastness and tested for being non hazardous are used to give different shades to Pashmina items. The shades
produced are warm, subtle and eye soothing. The Pashmina shawls are woven by traditional weavers who have been in this occupation for generations.

Whatever the cost, people not only in India but the world over are known to spend through their nose to own one Pashmina shawl.

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