I love pashmina shaws and just purchased 1 on Ebay for $35. The seller indicates that they are of 60% cashmere and 40% silk. I received it and it feels really nice, very soft and the fringes are as thin as toothpicks. Is there a way to tell if it's made from real cashmere and silk or not? Any hep would be appreciated since I would love to buy some more if this shawl is made from real cashmere and silk. Thanks!
posted on October 14, 2000 12:42:06 AM new
Well, if you can get some of the "fuzz" off the piece and burn it, if it smells like burning hair (ick) and leaves ash rather than a little black glob, at least you'll know it's all-natural.
posted on October 14, 2000 08:34:59 AM new
It is my understanding that there are different grades of cashmere. 35 bucks is awfully low for one of those things, so I'd be a bit suspicious of the grade/materials. However if you like the item and are happy, that's all that matters!
________
I never had one, and I didn't want one, and I don't, so now I do...
posted on October 14, 2000 11:38:41 AM new
Dear HartCottageQuilts,
I took your advice and burnt some fuzz and it smelled like hair burn and left only ashes... Does this mean that it is made out of cashmere and silk? It is very soft and fringes are small....
posted on October 14, 2000 03:17:25 PM new
The only thing burning conclusively prooves is that is is natural fiber. Nylon, polyester etc, ball up or melt. Burnt hair smell lets you know that it's some sort of animal hair.
Cashmere is a lot less rare now that the chinese are in the marketplace.
Also there are different grades of it so that may be a factor.
posted on October 14, 2000 05:55:25 PM new
I was in Hong Kong this summer and Pashmina shawls were selling for approx. $60US there. I agree if you like the look and the price, not to worry!
