History of Cashmere in Italy

History of Cashmere in Italy

Italy is renowned throughout the world for its artisanal excellence in the textile sector, and cashmere represents one of the noblest expressions of this tradition. Although it is a fiber originally from Asia, cashmere has found fertile ground in our country where artisanal mastery, attention to quality and a taste for elegance have been able to transform it into a symbol of refinement and prestige.

The Origins of Cashmere Fiber

The term “cashmere” comes from the Kashmir region, located between India, Pakistan and China, where this precious fiber was originally collected from Hircus goats. The fiber is distinguished by its extraordinary softness, lightness and thermal capacity, making it ideal for the creation of winter garments of the highest quality.

The processing of cashmere, for centuries concentrated in the countries of origin, gradually spread to Europe thanks to trade and the interest of Western textile manufacturers.

Landing in Italy: art and innovation

In Italy, cashmere began to spread between the 19th and 20th centuries, first in raw form, then as a raw material to be enhanced through advanced processing techniques. Regions such as Piedmont, Tuscany and Umbria played a crucial role in the development of a cashmere supply chain based on highly specialized artisanal and industrial processes.

Italian laboratories have distinguished themselves for their ability to spin, dye and weave cashmere, combining traditional knowledge with incessant technological research. This approach has allowed them to raise quality standards, making Italian cashmere synonymous with luxury, durability and aesthetic taste.

The role of Tuscany

In particular, Tuscany has established itself as one of the most important hubs in the production and processing of cashmere. Tuscan companies, often family-run, keep alive the link with the artisan tradition, while operating on an international scale. Here, cashmere is not just a raw material: it is the heart of a culture of “handmade”, of respect for the natural times of processing and the search for perfection in every detail.

The legacy today

Today, Italian cashmere is appreciated all over the world for its unsurpassed quality. Cashmere garments and accessories “Made in Italy” represent a perfect synthesis between elegance and comfort, tradition and innovation. Companies like Florence Cashmere Yarn carry on this legacy with pride, offering pure and regenerated yarns that respect the environment and enhance the Italian manufacturing heritage.

The history of cashmere in Italy is a story of passion, excellence and continuous improvement. It is the testimony of how a fiber born in the Asian mountains has found new life in the skilled hands of Italian artisans, becoming one of the most refined symbols of our textile heritage.