Question

What qualities of silk make it a highly valued fabric?

Answer 1

Hint: Silk is a natural protein fabric that may be woven into textiles in some forms. Silk is a protein fibre made primarily of fibroin, which is produced by certain insect larvae to build cocoons. The most well-known silk comes from the cocoons of mulberry silkworm Bombyx mori larvae raised in captivity.

Complete answer:
Silk is produced by a variety of insects, but only the silk of moth caterpillars has traditionally been employed in textile production. Other forms of silk that differ at the molecular level have been investigated. Silk is primarily created by insect larvae undergoing complete metamorphosis, though some insects, such as web spinners and raspy crickets, create silk during their whole lives.

Some qualities of silk that make it a highly valued fabric are:
- Silk has a smooth texture and rich, lustrous colours, making it a highly appreciated fabric in most cultures.
- Silk is a challenging material to work with. It must be retrieved from silkworm cocoons, spun into thread, and then stitched into fabric.
- Silk was created in China for the first time. Silk was required, which had to be imported from China. The traders had to navigate perilous highways across mountains and deserts on their long voyage. People living along the route frequently demanded payment from traders in exchange for allowing them to pass through.
- The low density of the fibre results in clothing that is light and comfy.

Note: Silk, as previously stated, is one of the most expensive fibres on the market, contributing to its elegance and opulence. Although it is a strong absorbent fibre, it is readily destroyed by sunlight and water. Fading and weakening can be caused by the light, whereas stains might be caused by water.