How Many Types of Silk Are There? Complete Name List

Key Takeaways

• There are different types of natural silk, but mulberry silk takes the crown for its incredible softness, durability, and luxurious feel.

• Silk isn’t just beautiful; it’s great for your skin and hair, helping to reduce wrinkles, keep skin hydrated, and prevent hair breakage thanks to its smooth, hypoallergenic surface.

• It’s also an eco-friendly choice. Silk is sustainable and biodegradable, creating a much smaller carbon footprint than cotton, wool, or polyester.

• The real quality of silk comes down to its grade, weight (in mommes), and weave. Grade 6A mulberry silk with a higher momme means you’re getting something that lasts and performs beautifully.

• Mayfairsilk only uses 100% pure Grade 6A Mulberry silk, so you know you’re getting premium comfort, safety (it’s Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified), and style in every product.

Major Types of Natural Silk

1. Mulberry Silk

If silk had a royalty tier, Mulberry would wear the crown. It’s made by pampered silkworms that dine exclusively on mulberry leaves, which results in ultra-smooth, soft, and shiny threads. This is the kind of silk you find in luxury sheets and high-end fashion. It’s breathable, durable, and naturally elegant; no wonder it makes up the vast majority of silk in the world.

Mulberry has unmatched softness and strength.

2. Eri Silk

Known as “peace silk” because the moths aren’t harmed, eri comes from silkworms that munch on castor leaves. It feels warm and cozy, with a texture a bit like cotton or wool. Mostly made in Northeast India and parts of Asia, it’s perfect for jackets, shawls, and cold-weather wear.

3. Muga Silk

This rare gem is only made in Assam, India, and it’s famous for its rich golden hue that gets deeper over time. It’s shiny, super strong, and naturally protective against UV rays. Traditionally used in regional outfits, it’s treasured for its beauty and durability.

4. Tussar Silk (also spelled Tasar or Vasna Silk)

Spun by wild silkworms that feed on oak and forest leaves, tussar has an earthy, textured vibe. It’s a bit rougher and has a rustle when you move it. Mostly made in India, it’s a favorite for sarees, kurtas, and flowing fashion with natural, rustic charm.

Other Less Common Natural Silks

• Anaphe Silk: Found in parts of Africa, this silk comes from communal cocoons spun by Anaphe silkworms.

• Fagara, Coan, Mussel, and Spider Silk: Rare and exotic, these silks are sourced from wild or unusual creatures, mostly in Africa and Asia, and used in niche or traditional crafts.

Types of Silk Fabric (Based on Weaving and Processing)

• Charmeuse Silk: Smooth and shiny on one side, matte on the other, perfect for luxe dresses and sleepwear.

• Dupioni Silk: Textured and slightly rough with natural slubs, great for rich, decorative fabrics.

• Habotai Silk: Light, soft, and often used as a lining; think of it as the everyday go-to silk.

• Chiffon Silk: Sheer, flowy, and a little bit rough, ideal for elegant evening wear.

• Crepe de Chine: Lightweight with a soft, slightly crinkled texture that drapes beautifully.

• Raw Silk: Unrefined and natural with a coarser feel, offering a rustic charm.

• Satin Silk: Sleek and glossy on the surface, this one screams luxury.

• Organza Silk: Crisp, sheer, and a bit stiff, great for bridal and formal wear with structure.

Grades of Silk Quality

Silk is also classified by fiber length and quality into grades:

• Grade A: Long, continuous fibers; very smooth, shiny, and durable.

• Grade B: Shorter fibers with some unevenness and rougher texture; less shine.

• Grade C: Innermost cocoon layers; short fibers with a cotton-like feel, rough texture, and little shine; often used for silk floss filling.

Cultural and Economic Importance

Silk has played a huge role in history, especially through the Silk Road, which connected Asia to Europe and Africa in a global exchange of goods and ideas. Even today, silk production is a vital livelihood for millions, particularly in China and India, and it continues to represent luxury and fine craftsmanship.

Care and Maintenance of Silk

When caring for silk, gentle hand washing or dry cleaning is usually best to keep it looking its finest. For storage, keep silk in cool, dry spots away from direct sunlight to avoid fading and damage over time.

Mayfairsilk Brings You the Finest Mulberry Silk

Luxury sleep starts with the right fabric, and Mayfairsilk delivers just that. We use only the highest quality Grade 6A long-fiber mulberry silk, which is incredibly soft, durable, and has a smooth matte finish that feels as good as it looks. 

Pillowcases, bedding, eye masks, and accessories are all part of the mix. Every piece is Oeko-Tex® Standard 100 certified, which means it’s safe for sensitive skin and free from anything nasty. Bonus: it’s biodegradable and sustainably sourced, so it’s kind to the planet too.

Mayfairsilk uses the purest mulberry silk; it's gentle, gorgeous, and sustainable from start to finish.

This silk isn’t just pretty. It regulates temperature, helps retain skin and hair moisture, and stays hypoallergenic. Designed in London and hand-finished with care, everything is made to last, and yes, most of it is machine washable.

Customers love it. Awards back it up. And with a variety of elegant colors and sizes, including options for emperor beds, there's a perfect match for every space!

Shop our collections today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the most expensive type of silk?

Sea silk is by far the rarest and most expensive, so rare that it’s more museum treasure than a commercial fabric. Among the silks you can actually buy, muga silk from Assam tops the list, thanks to its golden hue, strength, and limited availability.

Can you wash all types of silk the same way?

Not exactly. Mulberry silk prefers gentle hand washing or dry cleaning, while wild silks like tasar may soften with washing. Delicate fabrics like chiffon need more care than heavier weaves. Always check the label, and when unsure, stick with cool water, pH-neutral soap, and air drying out of sunlight.

How can I tell if silk is real or artificial?

Try the burn test; real silk smells like burning hair and turns to crushable ash, while synthetics melt and smell like plastic. Feel is another clue: real silk is warm to the touch and makes a soft rustling sound. Under magnification, genuine silk has irregular fibers that reflect light beautifully, unlike the uniform look of synthetics.

Why does mulberry silk cost more than other types?

Mulberry silk is the gold standard. The worms eat only mulberry leaves and produce long, uniform fibers that are strong, glossy, and easy to dye. It takes a lot of careful work to raise the silkworms and process the cocoons, which is why it’s more expensive but looks and feels amazing.

What grade of silk does Mayfairsilk use?

Mayfairsilk uses only 100% pure long-fiber Grade 6A mulberry silk, the best of the best. It’s incredibly smooth, strong, and has that soft matte sheen that sets our products apart.