Baby is a grade label
Do not use the word alone as proof of the animal’s age. Ask what diameter range and sorting standard the supplier means.
What does a micron value tell you?
A micron (µm) is one millionth of a metre. In a fibre specification it describes diameter. A reported mean diameter is an average across the tested sample; individual fibres still vary.
A value such as 18.5 µm is a fineness measurement, not a yarn count, knitting gauge or guarantee of a finished garment’s feel. The examples below explain supplier terminology and do not describe a tested LuMiao supply batch.
What a fibre image can show
Microscope references make surface structure visible. Scale, preparation and imaging method matter; appearance alone does not establish a grade.
How suppliers use grade names
The following published examples show why a grade name needs a supplier specification alongside it.
| Source | Royal | Baby | Superfine |
|---|---|---|---|
| LANGYARNS | Under 19 µm | 21.5–22.5 µm | 25.5–26.5 µm |
| INTIFIL | 19 µm | 22.5 µm | 26.5 µm |
| ILLIMANI Royal I | 18.5–19.5 µm | — | — |
These are source-specific descriptions, not a universal grading table or a certificate. A dash means no comparison is provided here.
Read the report alongside the material
External report and instrument examples show how measured results are presented. Values in these images belong to the original samples, not to a LuMiao offer.
READ THE FULL RESULT
Look beyond the average
Two samples with the same average diameter can have different fibre distributions. Ask for the test method, sample or lot identity and report date, together with the measurements relevant to your use.
- Mean fibre diameter: the average measured fineness.
- Standard deviation and coefficient of variation: how widely fibre diameters vary.
- Percentage below 30 µm: an additional indicator used in assessing comfort.
- Fibre curvature: another part of the measured fibre characteristics.
NZWTA’s alpaca testing guidance explains these reporting measures. Fibre data supports selection; it does not replace assessment of the intended yarn and finished sample.
Three useful distinctions
Breed is a separate question
Huacaya and Suri identify alpaca types. Neither name by itself confirms a micron range or the performance of a finished yarn.
Fine fibre still needs development
Composition, yarn construction, knitting and finishing all affect the garment. Compare samples under the intended use and care conditions.
See examples of fibre and origin labels
A label needs a supporting record
Industry marks, hangtags and garment labels are shown as examples. Their presence here does not claim certification, membership or authorization for LuMiao.
TALK TO LUMIAO
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Explore our ultrafine alpaca offer, or send the specification and intended use you want to compare.