All silk is spun by moths. The difference is when the human takes the cocoon. Mulberry: the cocoon is boiled before the moth emerges. Eri: the moth completes its cycle, emerges, and the empty cocoon is gathered.
Mulberry silk
Bombyx mori feeds on mulberry leaves. Cocoon filament up to 900 metres. To preserve it unbroken, the cocoon is boiled while the pupa is inside. The moth is killed; filament reeled off intact. Result: glossy, drapey, cool, formal.
Eri silk
Samia ricini, native to Assam. The Eri cocoon is open-ended — the moth exits naturally. Cocoon gathered afterwards, torn open, carded and spun by hand. Matte finish, textured hand, slightly heavier.
Comparison
| Property | Mulberry | Eri |
|---|---|---|
| Finish | Glossy | Matte |
| Hand-feel | Cool, slippery | Warm, cottony |
| Drape | Fluid | Structured |
| Colour hold | Bright | Muted, earthy |
| Care | Dry-clean | Hand-wash friendly |
Is Eri cruelty-free?
Yes. The only silk universally accepted as ahimsa. Silk of choice for Buddhist and Jain communities in India.
When to choose each
Mulberry — glossy, formal, evening. Eri — warm, matte, ethically sourced, everyday.
The CloudSpun Eri collection
Every piece in our Eri Silk collection is spun and woven by hand in Mirza, Assam.
Related: Pashmina vs cashmere · Shop Eri silk collection
