Bukhara karakul: what it is and why it is valued
Karakul is the fur of Karakul-breed lambs, one of the oldest sheep breeds of Central Asia. Bukhara has long been regarded as the centre of karakul processing; at Luxury Furs we receive karakul directly from Bukhara and sew fur coats, mantos and jackets from it in Tashkent.
What is karakul
Karakul is the pelt of Karakul-breed lambs. Their hair is short and dense and folds into a curl, forming a characteristic moiré pattern with a silky sheen. The name comes from the Karakul sheep breed, found across Central Asia, including the Bukhara region of Uzbekistan.
In international trade this fur is known by various names, for example “Persian lamb” or “astrakhan”.
Why karakul is associated with Bukhara
The Bukhara region has been regarded for centuries as the home of Karakul sheep breeding and the centre of karakul processing. That is why the term “Bukhara karakul” has become a byword for quality. Luxury Furs receives its fur directly from Bukhara.
Properties of karakul
- Light — a fur coat is not heavy, even in a long cut
- Hard-wearing — the short, dense hair stands up well to daily wear
- Holds its shape — the silhouette lasts for many years
- Blocks the wind — the dense fur suits the cold season
- A recognisable pattern — a moiré curl with a silky sheen
Karakul and other furs
Mink is a fluffy, silky fur with a long pile; karakul is short and dense with a curled pattern, generally lighter in weight and more resistant to wear. Luxury Furs specialises in karakul.
Luxury Furs karakul fur coats
We have worked with karakul since 1998: the founder of the house, Gulnoza Satimbayeva, oversees the selection of the pelts, while the atelier's craftspeople cut and sew by hand. The collection includes the “Noir” and “Astra” fur coats, the “Royale” manto and the “Champagne” jacket; custom tailoring is available.
Frequently asked questions
What is karakul?
Karakul is the fur of Karakul-breed lambs: a short, dense hair that folds into a curl and creates a moiré pattern with a silky sheen.
Why is karakul called Bukhara karakul?
The Bukhara region has been regarded for centuries as the centre of Karakul sheep breeding and karakul processing, so “Bukhara karakul” has become a byword for quality.
What else is karakul called?
In international trade it is known, for example, as “Persian lamb” or “astrakhan”.
Is karakul warm?
It is a dense, short-haired fur: it blocks the wind and suits the cold season, while staying light and less bulky than fluffy furs.
Where can I buy Bukhara karakul in Tashkent?
At the Luxury Furs atelier (Shohjahon Street 1B, Yakkasaroy District): we receive karakul directly from Bukhara and sew our pieces from it by hand.
Book a consultation
Tell us what kind of fur coat you are looking for — our consultant will help you choose the model, shade and size. Atelier: Shohjahon Street 1B, Yakkasaroy District, Tashkent. Mon–Sat 10:00–18:00.