LUSTRE

Mohair must have a bright lustre and not be dull in appearance. This lustre is very important in the processing of mohair as it accentuates the colour the manufacturer requires. This is one of the reasons why mohair is so much sought after as textile fibre.

Absence of foreign fibres

Mohair must be free of kemp, black and brown fibres or any other foreign fibres.

Foreign fibres can harm the end-product considerably and are easily discernable once the hair has been washed and combed. Kemp does not absorb dyes and can therefore easily be noticed after the dyeing process because it appears as lighter uncoloured fibres in the end-product.

CONDITION OF HAIR

Mohair must contain enough natural oil to be hardly noticeable. This natural oil protects the fibre against weathering and ensures healthy fibres for processing.

DUST, STAIN & SEED

Dust - must be limited to the minimum. Goats must therefore not be driven on dusty roads or into kraals that have not been dampened. Dust can, however, be washed out reasonably effectively by dipping the goats prior to shearing.

Stain - Avoid stained hair by not herding flock while the veld is wet with dew. Stained hair can also be reduced by crutching the goats at 3 months growth.

Seed - can be avoided by keeping the goats in clean camps till after shearing; goats with long hair should not be kept in spared camps or in old lands. After general rains seed can appear which can be detrimental to the value and quality of the clip

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