Cashmere is one of the most adulterated luxury fibres globally. Independent laboratory testing is the only reliable way to verify quality claims before shipment. Here's what buyers should specify and verify.
Micron Analysis (Fibre Diameter)
Standard tests measure the average fibre diameter:
- OFDA (Optical Fibre Diameter Analyser): Fast, digital, IWTO-approved
- Sirolan Fleecescan: Alternative optical method
- Laserscan: Laser diffraction based
Standard cashmere grades:
- Grade A: 14โ15.5 microns average
- Grade B: 15.6โ17 microns
- Grade C: 17.1โ19 microns (upper limit for "cashmere")
Fibre Composition Testing
Determines if fibre is truly cashmere or blended:
- Microscopy (SEM): Standard visual identification
- DNA testing: Species verification (cashmere vs yak vs wool)
- ELISA immunoassay: Protein-based species identification
Common Adulteration Types
- Yak hair mixed with cashmere (common in Mongolia-origin)
- Wool blended with cashmere
- Recycled fibre passed as virgin
- Longer staple wool blended to inflate quality claims
Independent Laboratories
- SGS Group
- Intertek
- Bureau Veritas
- The Woolmark Company
- Cashmere and Camel Hair Manufacturers Institute (CCMI)
Certifications
- Woolmark cashmere: verified 100% cashmere origin
- RWS (Responsible Wool Standard): social/environmental chain
- Independent COA per shipment: recommended for all buyers
Test Cost Reference
- Micron analysis: $50โ100 per sample
- DNA identification: $180โ320 per sample
- Full COA (composition + micron + length): $250โ450 per sample
Frequently Asked Questions
What quality documentation should I demand for scrap shipments from India?
Mandatory: radioactivity screening certificate, pre-shipment inspection report (SGS, CIQ, or Alex Stewart), assay/composition certificate, container photos before loading and after sealing, MSDS. For metal scrap, an ISRI grade certification. For copper/brass, LME-linked pricing documentation. Any missing document creates customs delays at destination.
How is scrap metal pricing determined?
Base pricing follows the London Metal Exchange (LME) daily settlement plus or minus a specific discount/premium reflecting quality grade, purity, and market conditions. For example, HMS 1&2 steel scrap trades at Turkish scrap import index minus $30โ50. Copper scrap trades at LME copper minus 20โ40 cents per pound depending on grade.
What is the minimum order for scrap metal export from India?
Standard MOQ is one full 20-foot container (~20 metric tonnes). Some smaller quantities may be available via LCL (less than container load) at meaningfully higher per-tonne cost. For repeat buyers, ongoing supply contracts of 200+ MT per month are structured with weekly or bi-weekly container releases.
Do I need import permits for scrap material imports?
Most destinations require importer registration with local customs and environmental agencies for scrap metal imports. Lead battery scrap requires additional Basel Convention permits. Radioactive-contaminated scrap requires specific quarantine handling. Verify import permit requirements with your customs broker before booking bulk shipment.
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About Blueridge Trade LLP
Blueridge Trade LLP operates a dual business model. Our textile division is a direct manufacturer โ we own and operate the production of our cashmere, Merino wool, silk, organic cotton, and blended fabric programmes, controlling quality from fibre sourcing through finishing. This vertical integration is what allows us to guarantee Grade A specifications and offer competitive private-label terms to international brands.
Beyond textiles, we operate as a trading and sourcing partner for industrial commodities (copper, aluminium, zinc, tin, tungsten scrap, activated carbon), botanicals and spices, export-grade packaging, and consumables. In these categories we leverage a vetted network of Indian producers rather than manufacturing in-house โ giving international buyers a single consolidated point of contact for both textile manufacturing and broader Indian sourcing requirements.