Cashmere is expensive primarily due to its extreme rarity, labor-intensive production, and high global demand.
Rarity of the Fiber
Cashmere comes from the soft undercoat of specific goats, mainly in Mongolia and China, where each goat yields only 150-250 grams annually—enough for part of one sweater from several animals. This limited supply, representing just 0.5% of global wool production, creates scarcity, especially for the finest fibers under 16 microns thick.
Labor-Intensive Harvesting
Producing cashmere involves hand-combing the undercoat during a short spring molting period, followed by meticulous dehairing, sorting, spinning, and delicate processing to preserve softness without damage. These artisanal steps require skilled labor and time, far exceeding machine-sheared sheep wool.
High Demand and Quality Factors
Rising popularity in luxury fashion drives prices up, compounded by ethical sourcing, sustainable grazing practices, and premium grading for superior warmth and durability—up to eight times warmer than sheep wool. Luxury branding and prestige further elevate costs for authentic products.
