Definition and A Breif History of Silk
The text book definition is: Silk – noun, 1 A fine lustrous fiber composed mainly of fibroin and produced by certain insect larvae to form cocoons, especially the strong, elastic, fibrous secretion of silkworms used to make thread and fabric. 2. Thread or fabric made from this fiber. 3. A garment made from this fabric.
Silkworms
Silk, as most people are aware, is made from the cocoons of the silkworm found in the Far East, namely China. Silk has been a sought after fabric for royalty, nobles, and wealthy merchants for several thousand years. In a Chinese legend, the origin of silk is attributed to a Chinese princess. She was sipping her tea when a cocoon fell into the hot liquid. She noticed long strands of silk being loosened by the heat.
Ancient documents, however, gives credit to the Empress Si-Ling for the creation and utilization of silk. Known for keeping and raising silkworms, around 2600 B.C. she invented a loom, designed specifically for silk. She was called “Goddess of the Silkworm.” The Chinese used silk for art, decorations and clothing. Silk also became a vehicle of commerce as it was used in exchange rates. The ‘silk road’ was used by Alexander the Great to bring silk into Europe early in the 4th century B.C. Soon, every noble, princess, prince, king and queen had clothing adorned with silk.
Cocoons soaking in water before weaving
From the beginning of the silk trade, the Chinese were highly protective of their silk and its secrets. It had become a source of great wealth and power. The emperors and empresses decreed that any citizen that revealed the secrets of silk would be sentenced to death by torture. The secret did finally escape the Chinese around 300 A.D. It first reached Japan and India between 300 and 400 A.D. with Spain producing silk closer to the 8th century A.D. Italy followed some 400 years later and became so adept at making silk that towns have been named for styles of the fabric.
Silk is highly valued not only for its luxurious properties, but also for its strength and light weight. A filament of silk is stronger than a similar filament made from steel. Today silk is used in a variety of applications. Lingerie, of course, dresses, suits for men and women, gloves, tapestries and many others.
The Finished Product in Show
China was the largest exporter of raw silk early in the 1990’s. This accounted for 85% of the world’s raw silk, worth around $800 million. Their finished silk products accounted for half of the world’s production and $8 billion.
