Grade 6A and Momme: how to read a silk quality label
Grade 6A refers to the highest quality mulberry silk: long, regular threads, uniform white color. Combined with a weight of 19 to 30 Momme and the mention "100% mulberry silk," this is the trio that guarantees a premium pillowcase. Beware of vague labels ("silk" without grade or Momme): they often hide a lower-quality blend.
"Grade A", "6A", "100% silk", "silk satin"... labels play on words that sound similar but do not have the same value. Knowing how to decode them prevents you from paying a premium price for average silk. Here are the three benchmarks that really matter.
1. The grade: from A to 6A
The grade classifies the quality of silk threads according to their length, regularity, and color. The scale ranges from Grade C (short, irregular threads, grayish tint) up to Grade 6A, the pinnacle: long, smooth threads, with a uniform natural white. A premium pillowcase always displays 6A. If the grade is not mentioned, it's rarely a good sign.
2. The Momme: weaving density
Momme (mm) measures the weight, and therefore the density, of the fabric. For a pillowcase, the quality range is from 19 to 30 Momme. Below 19, the silk is too thin and fragile; above 30, the cost increases without significant gain in comfort.
| Momme | Feel | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| 19 mm | Light, fluid | Qualitative entry-level |
| 22 mm | Balanced, dense | The best compromise |
| 30 mm | Thick, luxurious | Premium, maximum longevity |
3. The material: "100% mulberry silk"
This is the non-negotiable mention. "Silk satin," "silk feel," or "quality silk" without clarification often hide polyester or a blend. Only the mention 100% mulberry silk guarantees the natural fiber with hair and skin benefits.
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Label traps to avoid
Absence of grade, absence of Momme, mention of "silk" alone, abnormally low price (less than €20 for a new "silk" pillowcase): these are all signs of questionable quality or a fake. True 6A silk has a cost — it's the price of the material and craftsmanship.
FAQ
Does Grade 6A mean the best silk?
Yes, 6A is the highest grade of mulberry silk: long, regular, and white threads. It's the standard for premium pillowcases.
What's the difference between grade and Momme?
The grade rates the quality of the threads (from A to 6A), while Momme measures the density of the weave. A good pillowcase combines both: Grade 6A and 19 to 30 Momme.
Is "silk satin" real silk?
Not necessarily. Satin refers to a weave, not a material: it can be made of polyester. Always look for "100% mulberry silk."
Which Momme to choose for a pillowcase?
22 Momme offers the best quality/price balance. 30 Momme aims for longevity and luxury; 19 Momme remains qualitative for entry-level.
Is a low price a bad sign?
Often, yes. Real 6A silk has an incompressible material cost. A "silk" pillowcase under €20 usually hides a blend or a fake.