Mulberry Silk vs Tussah Silk: Differences, Prices, Pros & Cons

Key Takeaways

• Mulberry silk is the soft, glossy, ultra-smooth kind you see in luxury bedding and fashion. If you’re after that elegant, pampered feel, this is the one.

• Tussah silk leans more natural and rugged, with a matte finish and slightly textured vibe; great for anyone who wants durability with a bit of earthy charm and a lower price tag.

• Mulberry silk’s fibres are long and uniform, which means fewer pills and better longevity. Tussah’s shorter, thicker threads breathe well and hold up nicely against wear.

• You’ll pay more for Mulberry, but that price reflects the precision and care that goes into making it. It’s an investment in long-term softness and elegance.

• Mayfairsilk focuses exclusively on 100% Grade 6A Mulberry silk, delivering premium products with award-winning craftsmanship and sustainability at their core

Origins and Silkworm Species

Mulberry silk is made by the domesticated Bombyx mori silkworm, raised in calm, controlled environments and fed only mulberry leaves. It’s a bit like a five-star spa for silkworms, and the result is consistently smooth, luxurious silk.

Tussah silk takes a wilder route. It comes from silkworms that live freely in the forest, munching on oak, juniper, and whatever leaves they can find. Because the moths break out of their cocoons naturally, the silk ends up with shorter, rougher fibres, giving the silk a more rustic feel.

fibre Characteristics and Physical Properties

fibre Length and Diameter

Mulberry silk features long, fine threads that are silky-smooth and flexible, around 8 microns thick, making it strong yet soft to the touch.

Tussah silk is thicker, about 70 microns, with shorter fibres that often include bits of nature like tree bark. It’s less stretchy and usually spun rather than reeled, giving it a more textured vibe.

Tussah silk has a coarser texture and thicker strands, giving it a more organic, matte finish compared to the refined smoothness of mulberry silk.

Texture and Feel

Mulberry silk is famously smooth, almost slippery, gliding across your skin like air.

Tussah silk has a slightly rougher  feel and is less sleek and cozy.

Appearance and Sheen

Mulberry shines with a bright, glossy, pearly finish and starts off naturally white, which makes it a dream for vibrant dyeing.

Tussah silk shows off its natural golden or tan tones with a soft, matte finish. It’s not flashy, but it has a warm, organic look that feels grounded and natural.

Production and Processing Differences

Mulberry silk is the product of a carefully controlled, hands-on process. Silkworms are raised on mulberry farms, and their cocoons are harvested before the moths emerge, keeping the silk filaments long and smooth. It takes patience and precision, but the result is top-tier silk that feels and looks incredible.

Tussah silk comes from a looser natural setup. Silkworms live in the wild, and cocoons are collected after the moths break free. That leads to shorter fibres, which are usually spun like wool. 

Mulberry silk cocoons are raised under controlled conditions to preserve filament length, resulting in ultra-smooth, luxurious silk prized for its quality and softness.

Durability and Care

Mulberry silk is strong and elegant. Thanks to its long, even fibres, it resists pilling and keeps its smooth texture over time with the right care.

Tussah silk is a little tougher when resisting yellowing or chemical damage, but it can pill more easily because of its shorter threads. It’s not quite as silky-smooth, but it holds up well.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

When it comes to sustainability, not all silk is created equal, and Mulberry silk, especially when responsibly sourced, leads the way. While tussah silk often gets praise for coming from wild silkworms, the reality is that Mulberry silk’s controlled farming and eco-friendly practices make it the greener choice.

At Mayfairsilk, our Mulberry silk is grown using pesticide-free mulberry trees that rely mostly on rainwater. These trees don’t just support silkworms; they help absorb carbon from the air, making them great for the planet too. We go even further by treating our wastewater, repurposing byproducts like sericin, and using every part of the tree for compost or animal feed.

Even the silkworms play a role in the zero-waste cycle, sometimes being used in food or the cosmetic industry after their part is done. Leftover silk fibres don’t go to waste either; they’re turned into duvet or pillow fillings. 

Pricing 

The current price of mulberry silk fabric per metre in Europe typically ranges from £4.35 to £56.50, depending on the quality and origin. Standard Indian Mulberry silk is usually priced around £4.35–£13 per metre, while premium Italian Mulberry silk can reach £40.85–£55.60 per metre.

By contrast, tussah silk (often called wild silk) generally comes at a lower cost, with prices from European retailers falling between £17.40 and £34.75 per metre. Some listings can be as low as £20.80 and as high as £32.90 per metre. Tussah silk is typically about half the price of high-end mulberry silk, reflecting its coarser texture and less labor-intensive production process.

Note: The price ranges mentioned above are approximate and subject to change over time and across different locations. Costs may vary based on factors such as pricing policies, the provider's experience, and evolving market conditions.

Applications and Uses

Mulberry silk is the go-to for anything luxurious. Its softness and natural shine make it perfect for elegant dresses, silky scarves, premium lingerie, and those smooth, cool bedsheets and pillowcases you never want to leave. It’s also a favorite for high-end accessories that call for a touch of glam.

Tussah silk leans more into cozy and earthy territory. It’s great for heavier garments, textured upholstery, and breathable silk-filled duvets or pillows. It may not be as sleek, but it brings warmth and a rustic charm

How to Identify Mulberry Silk vs Tussah Silk

You can usually tell them apart just by touch. Mulberry silk feels ultra-smooth and glides through your fingers, while tussah silk has a slightly rougher, more textured feel. Try pulling the fibres; mulberry stretches longer before snapping, whereas tussah breaks more easily.

Visually, Mulberry silk has a pearly white glow and looks refined and uniform. Tussah tends to have a more natural golden or beige tint with occasional knots or flecks from the wild environment. For the science lovers, a bleach test reveals mulberry silk dissolves faster due to its finer fibres, while tussah takes a bit longer to break down.

Pro & Cons Summary of Mulberry Silk vs. Tussah Silk

Why Mayfairsilk is Your Ultimate Choice for Luxurious Mulberry Silk Products

Slip into comfort with Mayfairsilk, where every item is made using 100% Grade 6A long-strand Mulberry silk. Soft pillowcases, elegant duvet covers, smooth bed sheets, and stylish silk accessories all come together to create a cozy, polished space you'll love coming back to.

Mayfairsilk’s premium packaging reflects the quality inside: Grade 6A Mulberry silk crafted for comfort, style, and everyday elegance.

Only the highest quality silk fibres go into our products, chosen for their natural softness, strength, and skin-friendly benefits. You’ll notice the difference as soon as your head hits the pillow; cool, breathable, and gentle on both skin and hair.

Our signature matte finish gives each piece a modern, understated glow. With careful weaving and expert craftsmanship behind every item, it’s no surprise we’ve been recognised with awards and glowing reviews across the board.

Check out our silky pillowcases in beautiful colors and weights, duvet covers with elegant borders like our Champagne Gold Oxford design, and ultra-soft sheets made to last. Eye masks block out the light for deeper rest, while our scrunchies and slim ties are kind to your hair without sacrificing style. Even our cushion covers add a luxe touch to any room.

Every item is made with care, quality, and comfort in mind. Mayfairsilk is all about helping you sleep better and feel more relaxed, with added elegance.

Shop our collections today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Mulberry silk worth the higher price compared to Tussah?

If you’re after that ultra-smooth feel, radiant sheen, and top-tier fibre quality, especially for things like pillowcases or elegant clothing, then yes, Mulberry silk earns its price tag. It’s perfect when comfort and appearance truly matter. But for more casual use, Tussah silk can be a smarter choice. It’s naturally strong, a bit more rugged, and easier on the wallet, making it great for items that see regular use or benefit from a more textured look and feel.

Can people with sensitive skin use both types of silk?

Absolutely. Mulberry silk is a dream for sensitive skin; its ultra-fine, smooth texture reduces friction, making it gentle on conditions like eczema or rosacea. Tussah silk is a little more textured but still very skin-friendly. In fact, its light texture can be surprisingly soothing for some people. If you’re unsure, trying a smaller item like a tussah scarf can help you test how your skin reacts before committing to a full set.

How can I tell if my silk product is genuine Mulberry or Tussah?

You can usually spot the difference by look and feel. Mulberry silk is smooth, glossy, and nearly flawless, with a crisp white or cream base. Tussah silk, on the other hand, has a more natural, slightly nubby texture and earthy golden tones. Look closely at raw edges or seams; Mulberry fibres are fine and uniform, while tussah threads are a bit thicker and more varied. Even when dyed, Mulberry silk holds vibrant colors better, while tussah tends to take on richer, more muted tones.

Do Mulberry and Tussah silk pillowcases offer the same beauty benefits?

Both are much better for your skin and hair than cotton, but Mulberry silk typically wins for beauty perks. Its silky smoothness helps reduce frizz, prevent sleep lines, and maintain moisture, making it a go-to for hair care and skincare lovers. Tussah still offers benefits, especially with its breathability and softness after a few washes, but Mulberry delivers more noticeable beauty results right out of the box.

What types of silk products does Mayfairsilk offer?

Mayfairsilk specialises in 100% Grade 6A long-strand Mulberry silk across a wide range of luxuries: pillowcases, sheets, eye masks, scrunchies, hair ties, and cushion covers. Everything’s designed to feel indulgent, look elegant, and bring a touch of everyday luxury to your routine.