Why a cashmere jumper costs more than a cotton one, and what is even rarer.
By Shreya S · Last reviewed 2 November 2026
What are the most luxurious fibres?
| Fibre | Comes from | Known for |
|---|---|---|
| Vicuña | A wild Andean relative of the llama | Often called the finest and most expensive wool in the world |
| Cashmere | The soft undercoat of cashmere goats, mostly from Mongolia and China | Warmth without weight |
| Silk | The cocoons of silkworms | Sheen, drape and strength |
| Merino wool | Merino sheep, notably in Australia | Fine, soft suiting and knitwear |
| Mohair and alpaca | Angora goats and alpacas | Lustre, lightness and warmth |
| Linen | The flax plant | Cool, breathable summer fabric |
Why is cashmere so expensive?
Each goat produces only a small amount of usable fine undercoat a year, which is combed out by hand and then sorted. Quality varies widely: longer, finer fibres pill less and last longer, which is why cheap cashmere often wears out fast.
What does “Super 120s” mean on a suit?
It describes how fine the wool fibres are. The higher the number, the finer and softer the cloth, but very high numbers are also more delicate.
Read on Ayerhs: The Materials Economy · Quiet luxury · Why luxury is expensive · Fabrics 101