Mongolian Grade-A Cashmere: Why It's The Finest In The World

Mongolian Cashmere

The cold climate of Mongolia is well-suited to producing very fine cashmere because the winters encourage goats to develop a dense, insulating undercoat made of exceptionally fine fibres. Once the weather warms, the goats begin naturally shedding their winter coats, which is when their soft underlayer is collected.

Mongolian cashmere has a global reputation for producing the finest raw cashmere available. Our cashmere comes from this region, where the fibres used in our garments measure approximately 15.5 microns and 34 to 36mm long.

However, not all Mongolian cashmere is Grade A. The quality of the raw fibre, how it is sorted, how the yarn is spun and how the garment is constructed all affect the result.

The label matters but the details behind it matter more.

Grade-A Cashmere

Grade A is the highest grade for cashmere garments. It means that the cashmere quality is assessed using several characteristics, including fibre diameter, length, colour and purity. Of these, diameter and length are two of the most helpful indicators of how the finished garment is likely to feel and wear.

A Grade-A Cashmere Wrap uses the finest and longest fibres. The lower the micron measurement, the finer the individual fibre. Fine fibres bend more easily against the skin, helping good cashmere feel smooth rather than coarse.

Fibre length matters for a different reason. Longer fibres can be spun into smoother, stronger yarns with fewer joins and fewer exposed ends, so a cashmere hoodie or jumper holds its shape and stays soft through regular wear.

How We Collect Our Fibres

At Rise & Fall, we believe care at all stages matters. Even an excellent raw fibre can be compromised through poor sorting, aggressive processing or weak garment construction.
Our cashmere is combed from goats in spring, as they naturally begin shedding their winter undercoats. The fibre is then sorted to separate the fine cashmere from the coarser outer hairs. Colour, length, diameter and purity are assessed before the selected fibres are cleaned and spun into yarn.

We work with expert manufacturers and select yarns based on the characteristics that matter most: fineness, length, softness, strength, and consistency.

Our cashmere yarn is certified to The Good Cashmere Standard which covers four central areas: 

1. goat welfare
2. environmental management
3. people and social responsibility
4. supply chain management

Each one is supported by regular independent verifications. Our manufacturing partners also hold OEKO-TEX certifications, supporting more considered chemical and textile-production practices.

How Can You Identify High-Quality Cashmere?

A cashmere scarf labelled 100% cashmere contains only cashmere, not a wool or synthetic blend. However, 100% cashmere can still vary considerably in grade and construction.

A blend is not automatically poor quality either. Cashmere can be intentionally combined with fibres such as merino wool to add elasticity, structure or everyday resilience. The important thing is for the composition to be clearly stated.

Look for information about:

• Cashmere Grade
• Fibre origin
• Micron measurement
• Fibre length
• Manufacturing standards
• Certifications

Where To Start With Grade-A Cashmere

A classic crew neck is one of the simplest ways to introduce cashmere into an everyday wardrobe. For example, our Women’s Finest Cashmere Mid-Weight Crew Neck Jumper is made from 100% Grade A Mongolian cashmere in a more substantial mid-weight knit. Its relaxed shape works with denim, tailoring and softer layers.

For men, the Men’s Finest Cashmere 1/4 Zip Jumper offers the same fine fibre in an easy, seasonless shape. It can be worn over a T-shirt, layered beneath a coat or combined with more formal trousers.

Or you could start with an A-grade cashmere scarf. The Finest Cashmere Double-Faced Scarf provides lightweight warmth in a generous shape designed for wrapping and layering.

Grade-A Cashmere FAQs

1. Why does fibre diameter matter in cashmere?

Fibre diameter directly affects softness. Finer fibres bend more easily and sit more smoothly against the skin, while coarser fibres can feel more noticeable or prickly. Rise & Fall’s Grade A cashmere fibres measure approximately 15.5 microns, making them considerably finer than human hair.

2. Why does fibre length matter in cashmere?

Longer fibres help create smoother, stronger yarns with fewer loose ends. This can give the finished garment a cleaner surface and help reduce excessive fuzzing and pilling over time. Rise & Fall uses cashmere fibres measuring approximately 34- 36 mm in length.

3. Does Grade-A cashmere pill?

Yes. All cashmere can pill because friction causes loose fibres to work towards the surface and tangle together. Some pilling during the first few wears is normal, but longer Grade A fibres are less likely to shed than very short fibres, helping reduce excessive pilling over time.

4. Is Grade-A cashmere worth it?

Grade A cashmere uses some of the finest and longest fibres available, which adds to its softness, warmth and durability. A well-made cashmere garment can be worn repeatedly across seasons, making fibre quality, construction and longevity important considerations alongside price.

5. How should you care for Grade-A cashmere?

Air it between uses, wash according to the care guide using a gentle wool or cashmere detergent, and dry it flat away from direct heat. Store cashmere clean, dry, and folded, and lightly comb it with a cashmere comb to remove occasional pills.

6. Is Grade-A cashmere the best cashmere?

Grade A is generally considered the highest cashmere grade because it uses particularly fine, long fibres. However, the quality of the yarn, knit and finished construction still matters.