The alpaca is a beautiful animal that has a very special value due to its fiber, which is considered one of the finest and most luxurious in the world. In this post we will mention the characteristics of this fiber that make it considered so unique and valued in the world.
Our Peru is home to the vast majority of alpacas in the world (around four million), that is, more than 70%, according to data from the National Institute of Agrarian Innovation (INIA). In second place is Bolivia with less than 10% and then Australia, a country to which alpacas were introduced in 1980. Alpacas can also be found in Argentina, Ecuador and Chile.
The varieties of alpaca and differences in their fiber
We can find two variations of alpaca: Huacaya and Suri. The Huacaya alpaca is the most common and its fiber is characterized by being short, curly and with greater density and weight. On the other hand, the fiber of the Suri alpaca is characterized by being straight, soft and silky, in addition to being much shinier than the fiber of the Huacaya alpaca.
An interesting fact is that alpaca fiber has more than 22 different colors, ranging from white to black. This makes it considered very versatile for the textile industry.
General characteristics of alpaca fiber
Alpaca fiber also has exceptional thermal properties thanks to small air bubbles contained within its structure, which makes it adaptable to different climatic conditions; for example, keeping you warm in winter and not suffocating in summer. It is also anti-allergy (lanolin-free), waterproof and fire-resistant, making it the ideal choice for high-quality clothing and accessories.
What is the reason for this remarkable quality?
Have you ever wondered how alpaca fiber has managed to have so many special characteristics together? Well, this is due to a combination of several factors, such as climatic and geographical conditions. The altitude and climate of the Andean regions of Peru, where the vast majority of alpacas are raised, provide an ideal environment for the good development of their fiber, that is, for it to be finer, softer and more resistant.
Another factor, no less important, is the genetic selection and traditional care of local communities, which has refined the quality of the fiber over generations.
At Inverna, we are proud to offer a wide range of products made exclusively with Peruvian alpaca, from slippers and purses to various accessories. The notable thing about these items is their versatility: they can accompany you in any season of the year. As we have mentioned, alpaca garments are ideal both in the heat of summer and in the cold of winter thanks to their unique thermoregulatory properties.
Sources:
alpacadelperu.pe | La fibra de alpaca, sus calidades y colores
nationalgeographicla.com | Perú: la misión de salvar a las alpacas de los cambios climáticos en el altiplano
