If you've shopped for silk, you've seen numbers like “16mm” or “22 momme.” That little number tells you more about quality than almost anything else on the label. Here's how to read it.
Momme, defined
Momme (pronounced “moh-mee,” abbreviated mm) is the traditional unit for silk fabric weight: one momme equals about 4.34 grams per square meter. Unlike thread count for cotton, momme measures density — how much silk is actually woven into the fabric. Higher momme means a denser, more durable, more opaque silk.
What the numbers mean
- 10–12 momme — light and airy; ideal for everyday neckerchiefs and linings. Delicate, semi-sheer with light colors.
- 14–16 momme — the sweet spot for printed scarves: substantial enough to drape and hold color, light enough to knot easily. Most Jeelow art-print scarves are 14–16mm twill or satin.
- 19 momme — the standard for quality sleep accessories; our silk sleep mask uses 19mm silk inside and out.
- 22 momme and up — dense, luxurious, and hard-wearing; used in our 22 momme scrunchies and premium sun masks.
Momme is not the whole story
Two more things matter:
Silk grade. “100% mulberry silk” means the silk comes from cultivated mulberry silkworms, producing long, uniform, strong fibers — the highest grade. All Jeelow silk is 100% mulberry.
Weave. The same momme feels different in different weaves: twill has a subtle diagonal texture, grips knots well, and suits printed scarves; satin (charmeuse) is glossier and more fluid; crepe de chine has a soft, matte crinkle.
Which should you buy?
For a first silk scarf, a 14–16mm mulberry silk twill square with hand-rolled hems offers the best balance of drape, durability, and price. For hair and sleep, go higher — 19–22mm — because density is what protects hair from friction.
Browse Jeelow 100% silk scarves — the momme weight and weave are listed on every product page.
Quick FAQ
Is higher momme always better? Not always — above ~19mm a scarf becomes heavier and less airy. Match the weight to the use.
Why do hand-rolled hems matter? They're the traditional finish of fine scarves: hand-rolled and stitched edges hold their shape for years and signal careful construction.
How can I tell real silk? Real silk warms quickly in your hand, shifts color subtly in light, and never feels plastic-slick like polyester satin.