What does the alpaca origin mark guarantee?

The Alpaca Origin Mark guarantees the authenticity and quality of the alpaca fiber used in a product, ensuring it is made with 100% alpaca fiber according to established quality standards set by the International Alpaca Association (IAA). If your brand is looking for custom knitwear production, Knit Lab Peru offers handcrafted, sustainable manufacturing tailored to international markets.

Many retailers understand how coveted alpaca is, so they include "Alpaca" in the title of a garment whenever possible. However in some cases, they are actually selling a blend, or sometimes a garment with no alpaca at all.

In retail, the terms alpaca, cashmere, mohair, etc. are often used inappropriately; leading a consumer to believe that they are purchasing something they are not. Unfortunately, the US Government has not cracked down on these practices in our industry.

When you purchase something that is advertised as made from a fine textile, be sure to read the content label. Remember that to be called an "Alpaca" sweater, it has to contain more alpaca than anything else.

What the Alpaca Origin Mark Guarantees?

The ALPACA MARK guarantees the content and quality of the alpaca fiber used in the different products that bear the ALPACA MARK. It is thus a commitment to excellence on the part of all those who belong to the IAA to protect businesses and consumers.

Being the oldest collective symbol in the sector, the ALPACA MARK is well placed worldwide. It is registered in 30 different countries including European Union members and others which comprise the world’s principal textile markets - such as Italy, Japan, Peru, France, Germany, United Kingdom and Spain. It reflects what the Alpaca Origin Mark ensures: trust, authenticity, and recognition across the fashion industry.

• Authenticity: It confirms the product is made with 100% alpaca fiber.

• Quality: It assures the user that the fiber meets the quality standards of either the "Baby Alpaca" (Gold) or coarser grades (Silver).

• Commitment to Excellence: It represents a commitment to quality by all members of the International Alpaca Association (IAA).

  
  

  

  Alpaca Mark Association

  
  

The Mark's Categories

Depending on the quality of the fiber, we can see how the Alpaca Origin Mark ensures authenticity through its categories:

• Gold Mark: For 100% Baby Alpaca or finer qualities.

• Silver Mark: For 100% alpaca of coarser grades than Baby Alpaca.

• Origin Mark White: Guarantees that an Alpaca Blend product contains 70% Alpaca Fiber, (can be blended with wool, silk, acrylic, or other fiber that must be specified on label.)

• Hologram Mark: Embedded design designates quality. Can be used with or without the above cards. Can be used alone on small items as a rule, however the IAA Registration number must appear as well.

Long-term Investment

The durability and warranty of alpaca wool mean you don't need to change socks frequently. In the long run, this can save you money.

At Knit-Lab Peru, we specialize in handcrafted and custom knitwear. Using the finest sustainable materials, we deliver high quality products worldwide. Contact us today to start creating premium knitted garments for your brand!