Learn to recognize quality cashmeres

Some of the best cashmere items in stores originated in Mongolia.
By ANNA WALLNER and KRISTINA MATISIC
SCRIPPS HOWARD
As the temperature outside drops our thoughts turn to the indoors, to cozy weekends by the fire. And what better way to get comfy than with a cashmere sweater or wrap! If cashmere is on your shopping list this winter season or if you're planning on making it a Christmas gift for someone special, here's how to spot quality:
The Federal Wool Products Labeling Act requires all cashmere product labels to include country of origin, the name of the manufacturer and the percentage of cashmere the item contains. Read the label carefully.
Mongolia produces some of the best cashmere in the world, so look for that country of origin on the label.
A pashmina is a type of shawl, not a type of cashmere. If you're shopping for a cashmere pashmina, look for the specific "cashmere" content on the label. (Approximately 80 percent cashmere and 20 percent silk is a good place to start.) If the label simply says "100 percent pashmina", there is no guarantee the item contains any cashmere at all.
Beware of an item that appears the slightest bit shiny. That shine is probably an indication the item is not pure cashmere.
Ply is an indicator of thickness, not necessarily quality. The higher the number of plies, the thicker and more durable the garment. Single ply cashmere is extremely fragile. Multiple plies also mean more warmth. (You can even get six-ply. But that will cost you!)
Hold the garment up to the light to see whether the weave is even. Consistent weave is an indicator that the piece will hold its shape.
Quality varies greatly. Use your hands to feel out the softest cashmere. Because cashmere is all about softness!
When it comes to care, our fabric experts recommend hand washing over dry cleaning. Use a gentle soap like Woolite (or even shampoo) in lukewarm or cool water. Rinse thoroughly, roll the garment in a soft towel to drain out excess water (hand wringing is too rough) and then lay it flat to dry away from direct sunlight.