Highland Wool is a type of sheep’s wool that originates mainly from the rugged highland regions of Scotland, Peru, and other mountainous areas where hardy sheep breeds thrive. Unlike fine wools such as Merino, Highland Wool is known for its strength, durability, and rustic charm. It reflects the environment in which it is produced—cold, windy, and often harsh climates where sheep develop thick, insulating fleeces for survival. Characteristics of Highland Wool Highland Wool is medium to coarse in texture, with a fiber diameter usually ranging between 28 to 35 microns. While it is not as soft as cashmere or merino, it offers exceptional warmth, breathability, and resilience. The fibers are naturally crimped, which provides elasticity and volume, making them ideal for sweaters, jackets, carpets, and outerwear. Highland Wool tends to be less uniform than luxury wools, giving fabrics made from it a textured, earthy appearance that appeals to lovers of natural and traditional textiles. Anoth...
1. Introduction – The Jewel of the Andes Among all natural fibers known to humankind, none inspire as much awe and reverence as Vicuña wool. This exquisite fiber is often called the “fiber of the gods”, a title it earned centuries ago when only Incan royalty was permitted to wear it. Renowned for being the softest, warmest, and rarest wool on Earth, it is not just a textile but a living piece of cultural heritage. The wool’s natural golden-beige shade glows under the sun, evoking the radiance of Andean landscapes where these delicate animals roam freely at altitudes above 4,000 meters. Its texture is so fine—measuring about 12 microns in diameter—that when brushed against the skin it feels almost ethereal, softer even than the finest cashmere. More than a commodity, vicuña wool is a symbol of exclusivity and conservation success, where ancient tradition blends with modern luxury. Each strand tells a story of survival in extreme climates, of people working hand in hand with nature, and ...