How to Spot Real Cashmere: 5 Ways to Avoid Fake or Low-Quality Scarf

How to Spot Real Cashmere: 5 Ways to Avoid Fake or Low-Quality Scarf

Cashmere is the epitome of luxury, but not all "cashmere" products are created equal. With counterfeit blends flooding the market, it's crucial to know how to verify real cashmere quality before investing in a scarf or sweater.

1. Check the Fiber Thickness (Micron Count)

Genuine cashmere fibers are 14–19 microns thick—finer than human hair. Cheap imitations use thicker, scratchier wool or synthetic blends.

Pro Tip: Look for terms like "Grade A" or "Mongolian cashmere"—these indicate finer fibers.

Red Flag: If the label says "cashmere wool" (not "100% cashmere"), it's likely a blend.

2. The Burn Test (for Blends)

Real cashmere burns slowly and smells like burnt hair, while synthetics melt and smell like plastic.

  1. Snip a tiny fiber from an inconspicuous area.
  2. Hold it with tweezers and light it.
    • ✅ Real cashmere: Turns to ash.
    • ❌ Fake: Melts or drips.

3. Price: Why Cheap Cashmere is a Scam

Authentic cashmere is expensive because:

  • It takes 4 goats to produce enough wool for one scarf.
  • Labor-intensive hand-combing (not shearing) preserves fiber quality.

Rule of Thumb: A real cashmere scarf costs $100–$500. If it's under $50, it's fake.

4. Feel and Texture Tests

Genuine cashmere is buttery soft (not itchy) and warms instantly.

Rub the fabric between your fingers:

  • ✅ Real: Smooth, slightly fuzzy.
  • ❌ Fake: Rough, shiny, or staticky.

5. Trusted Certifications

Look for these labels:

  • Good Cashmere Standard (ethical sourcing).
  • Oeko-Tex Certified (no harmful chemicals).

Avoid: Vague terms like "luxury wool" with no proof.

Ready for Authentic Cashmere?

Now that you can spot true cashmere, explore our collections —handcrafted with premium cashmere fibers and sustainably sourced.

Pro Tip: Pair your scarf with our Cashmere Care Kit to maintain its luxury for decades.

Back to blog