Reviving this thread because I have recently begun the search for new cashmere sweaters. To this point my "collection" (5 v-necks in staple colors and then a couple pullovers) has been from lower-end to middle-of-the-road manufacturers (think: J. Crew, PRL and Brooks Brothers). However, a few months ago I was able to find a Loro Piana Roadster pullover at an unbeatable deal. Purchasing this sweater has changed the way I look at cashmere.
Because I am more or less ignorant about cashmere, how it is made, how to spot good quality, etc, I decided to do some research. I started on SF, only to find that there was no really conclusive opinion or even objective standard. Because of this I have ventured out into the wilds of the internet to do some of my own research. I figured I'd share with the class.
Some students from Loyola did a project on Cariaggi cashmere production. For those of you that don't know of Cariaggi, it is known as one of the top Italian cashmere houses. Their report is not insanely detailed, but gives a good idea of the processes. It also has a pretty cool video.
http://www.loyola.edu/cagliweb/2004/kaylanscagliola/index.html
I also stumbled across an organization called the Cashmere and Camel Hair Manufacturers Institute. This group has tasked themselves with inspecting the sheering, yarn production, weaving process and retailer behavior of all things cashmere. They provide detailed information of how the fibers are classified and certified. However, most importantly, they provide a list of the CCMI members who produce certified cashmere garments and accessories:
http://www.cashmere.org/cm/members.php
I was hoping my initial research might revive this thread and lead to discussion more specifically, or at least objectively, about what makes good cashmere and who's producing it. However, worst comes to worse, at least here are some starting points for those of us with no idea where to turn for information.
