Deep in the Peruvian Andes there is an animal that is prized for its extremely expensive fur.

The special feature of the Vicuña species is their fur.

By the 13th century, Vicuñas were almost exclusively used during the Incan empire.

For many people, shearing is a sacred process.

However, in 1532, Spanish colonists took over the land and broke tradition for profit.

Millions of Vicuñas have been poached for their valuable manes.

Vicuña wool in the modern world

Vicuña wool is becoming more valuable than ever.

This will encourage and motivate local people to have a reason to protect the dwindling population of Vicuña species.

The Vicuña’s coat takes years to grow back, which is why shearing is usually only done about once every two years.

A kilogram of Vicuña wool sells for between $399 and $600.

Each fiber is about 12 microns, which is 12 thousandths of a millimeter.

Cashmere, one of the world’s most famous wools, is 10 times heavier than Vicuña wool.

Refer to Amusingplanet