Red Hand Embroidered Shawl in Kani Inspired Motifs

Pashmina vs Cashmere vs Wool - What’s the Difference?

In a world filled with terms like 'cashmere', 'pashmina' and 'wool' it can be confusing to understand what truly sets them apart. Many brands use these words interchangeably, but the differences are significant - especially if you’re investing in a luxury shawl.

At Peepal Haveli, we believe in clarity and honesty. This guide will help you understand what makes pashmina extraordinary - and how it differs from cashmere and wool.

1. Origin of the Fibre

Pashmina

  • Comes exclusively from the Changthangi goat of Ladakh
  • Lives at 12,000–15,000 ft altitude
  • Fibre is combed ethically once a year

Cashmere

  • Comes from various cashmere goat breeds
  • Found in Mongolia, China, Nepal, Iran, Afghanistan, etc.
  • Machine-processed
  • Wider range of softness

Wool

  • Comes from sheep
  • Readily available
  • Not as soft or fine

2. Fibre Thickness

Pashmina: 12–16 microns (ultra-fine)

Cashmere: 15–19 microns

Merino Wool: 20–25 microns

Regular Wool: 30+ microns

The smaller the micron, the softer the fibre.
This is why pashmina feels like air against the skin.

3. Softness & Handfeel

Pashmina

  • Feather-light
  • Incredibly soft
  • Has a natural sheen
  • Thermoregulating
  • Cashmere
  • Soft but slightly denser than pashmina
  • Smooth and comfortable

Wool

  • Warm but coarse
  • Can feel scratchy on sensitive skin

4. Warmth-to-Weight Ratio

Pashmina = unmatched warmth without bulk.

A pure pashmina shawl is:

  • warmer than wool
  • lighter than cashmere
  • breathable in all seasons
  • This is why pashmina is perfect even in the UK - it adapts to your body temperature.

5. Method of Production

Pashmina

  • Always hand-spun
  • Always handwoven
  • Machines cannot handle its delicacy

Cashmere

  • Often machine-spun and woven
  • Can be mass-produced

Wool

  • Industrial production
  • Highly automated

6. Price Difference - And Why

A real pashmina is rare.
It requires:

  • high-altitude fibre
  • multiple artisans
  • weeks (even months) of work
  • small-batch production

Its price reflects its artistry.

Cashmere can be affordable because it is factory-produced at scale.
Wool is mass-market.

7. Durability

A well-cared-for pashmina can last for decades - often becoming softer with age.
Cashmere is also durable, but machine-made versions wear out faster.
Wool is sturdy but loses softness over time.

8. Which Should You Choose?

Choose Pashmina if you want:

  • the softest, finest natural fibre
  • an heirloom-quality shawl
  • artisan-made craftsmanship
  • travel-friendly, year-round layering
  • a luxury investment

Choose Cashmere if you want:

  • a soft, comfortable daily-wear scarf
  • good warmth at a moderate price

Choose Wool if you want:

  • a warm, casual winter option
  • affordability over softness

Conclusion

Pashmina stands in a category of its own. It is not just another wool - it is a heritage textile, crafted by hand, treasured across generations.

The Signature Edit (Our most elevated, curated pieces) – Peepal Haveli


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