silks

Silk is a natural protein fiber produced by certain insects to spin cocoons. The most commercially important silk is produced by the larva of the mulberry silkworm, Bombyx mori, and is commonly called mulberry silk or cultivated silk. Silk fibers consist mainly of fibroin, a fibrous protein, coated with sericin, a gummy protein that cements the filament.

Silkworms are raised in a system called sericulture. After feeding on mulberry leaves, the mature larvae spin cocoons that are harvested and then processed to extract continuous filaments. The filaments are often degummed to remove sericin, dyed, and woven or knitted into fabrics. Wild silks, produced by various Antheraea and Samia species, such as tussar, muga, and eri, are sometimes used as alternatives or blends.

Silk fibers are valued for their smooth texture, natural luster, and good insulation. They have high tensile strength, excellent drape, and excellent dye affinity, but can be more moisture-sensitive and expensive than some synthetic fibers. Silks vary in diameter and luster depending on the silkworm species and rearing conditions.

Silk is used in clothing, upholstery, and technical textiles, including medical sutures and parachute fabrics.

The production and trade of silk have a long history, particularly in China and India, with Silk Road connections shaping cultural and economic exchange.

Contemporary silk production remains concentrated in China and India, with additional output from other countries. Sustainability concerns include habitat impact, labor conditions, and chemical processing; some producers promote organic silk or nonviolent peace silk that allows pupae to emerge before cocoon processing.