Silk producing caterpillars prefer to feed on the leaves of the mulberry tree. When the caterpillar enters its chrysalis stage, it often nests in oak, broom, or other twigs. Each cocoon produces about 300 to 400 yards of silk. A Hermes scarf uses the silk from 250 cocoons. Certain weather conditions will cause the silk worms to produce silk of a lesser quality, or none at all.
Silk can decompose at high temperatures and fade in prolonged sunlight - so good care is essential.
Hermes recommends that its Hermes scarves are dry cleaned, avoid the temptation to hand wash. A momme is equal to 3.75 grams, or one-sixth of an ounce. A quality indicator is the softness and weight of silk fabric. Hermes scarves are made of 20mm silk - other manufacturers' weights usually range from 4mm to 16mm. The Hermes silk carre measures 36 inches square.