Yes, Real Pashmina shawls are generally more expensive than regular cashmere shawls. There are several reasons that contribute to the higher cost of authentic Pashmina shawls:

Rare and Precious Fiber: Pashmina is made from the fine undercoat fibers of the Changthangi goats, which are native to the Himalayan regions of India, Nepal, and Tibet. These goats are adapted to the extreme cold climates of the high altitude regions and produce a limited amount of fine fiber each year. The process of collecting and processing Pashmina is labor-intensive and time-consuming, as the fibers are hand-combed or collected during molting season, and then carefully sorted and cleaned. The scarcity of the Pashmina fiber and the labor-intensive process of obtaining it make it a rare and precious material, driving up its price.

Exceptional Softness and Quality: Pashmina is known for its unparalleled softness, warmth, and lightness. The fine fibers are incredibly soft and fine, with a diameter of around 12-16 microns, which is significantly thinner than regular cashmere fibers. This results in a luxurious and velvety texture that is highly coveted. The exceptional quality and softness of Pashmina make it a premium material, commanding a higher price.

Handcrafted Artistry: Authentic Pashmina shawls are traditionally handcrafted by skilled artisans using time-honored techniques that have been passed down through generations. The intricate process of spinning, weaving, and finishing Pashmina requires meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail. Each Pashmina shawl is a labor of love, taking weeks or even months to create, depending on the intricacy of the design. The artisanal craftsmanship involved in making Pashmina shawls adds to their value, as it represents a centuries-old tradition and the expertise of skilled artisans.

Natural Dyeing Techniques: Traditional Pashmina shawls are often dyed using natural dyes obtained from plant-based sources, such as indigo, madder, and walnut, which are eco-friendly and sustainable. The use of natural dyes requires additional effort and expertise in the dyeing process, as the colors are derived from natural sources and can vary in shade and intensity. This adds to the cost of Pashmina shawls, as natural dyes are often more expensive and time-consuming to use compared to synthetic dyes.

Brand Reputation: Authentic Pashmina shawls are often associated with well-established and reputable brands or artisans who are known for their quality, authenticity, and craftsmanship. These brands or artisans have built a reputation for producing genuine Pashmina shawls, and their products command a premium price due to the brand value and customer trust associated with them.

Therefore, the combination of rare and precious fiber, exceptional softness and quality, handcrafted artistry, natural dyeing techniques, and brand reputation are some of the key factors that contribute to the higher cost of authentic Pashmina shawls compared to regular cashmere shawls. The labor-intensive process of obtaining and processing the Pashmina fiber, the artisanal craftsmanship involved, and the use of natural dyes all add to the uniqueness, luxury, and value of Pashmina shawls, making them a premium and sought-after textile.