How Momme is Measured
HISTORY OF MOMME
14th Century
Momme (匁), a Japanese unit of mass and former unit of currency, first appeared in a family book during the Bunmei era in 1484. While it is no longer used as a currency, it continues to be a standard measure in the pearl industry.
19th Century
The concept of momme emerged as an alternative to thread count due to the high number and variation in threads within cocoons. It entered European parlance among traders in the nineteenth century.
Early 20th Century
In the early 20th-century Japan was when the metric system officially replaced the shakkanho system of weights and measures. The basic unit of mass was the Kan, and other measures, including the monme, were derived from it. The monme, later popularized as momme in the West, remains the traditional unit of measurement for silk and pearls.
Momme (Weight) Range
Momme weight refers to the weight measurement of silk fabric. The higher the momme weight, the heavier and more durable the fabric is.
Light Momme
Thinner, more delicate fabric. May have a more sheer or lightweight feel, offering a delicate and ethereal look.
Medium Momme
Slightly heavier, offering enhanced substance and durability. It strikes a well-balanced combination of lightness and longevity.
Heavy Momme
Significantly heavier and more substantial fabric. Increased weight, durability, and mor structured appearance.
Momme (Weight) Ranges for Different Types of Silk Weaves
Chiffon
Georgette
Crepe de Chine
Silk Twill
Silk Charmeuse
Heavy Crepe de Chine
Double Georgette
Heavy Charmeuse
silk material
Chiffon
Georgette
Silk Charmeuse
Crepe de Chine
Silk Twill
Double Joe
Heavy Charmeuse
Heavy Crepe de Chine
MOMME RANGE
6 - 8 momme
8 - 12 momme
12 - 16 momme
12 - 25 momme
12 - 30 momme
20 - 25 momme
20 - 30 momme
25 - 40 momme
TEXTURE
Lightweight, sheer, and slightly rough
Crinkly, slightly rough
Slightly pebbly, matte finish
Smooth with a distinctive diagonal rib pattern
Smooth, glossy on one side, matte on the other
Heavier, pebbly texture, matte finish
Heavier and more opaque than standard Georgette, crinkly
Extremely smooth, glossy on one side, matte on the other
WEIGHT
Very light
Light to medium
Medium
Medium to heavy
Medium to heavy
Heavy
Heavy
Heavy
DURABILITY
Low (delicate and can tear easily)
Moderate (stronger than chiffon, but still delicate)
High (more resistant to wrinkling and tearing)
High (robust and durable)
Moderate (prone to snags but generally sturdy)
Very high (resistant to wrinkles and tearing)
High (more robust than standard Georgette)
High (robust despite its sheen)
CHARACTERISTIC
Very light and airy, often used for layers and decorative elements.
Lightweight with a grainy texture, good for fluid, flowing garments
Excellent drape with a matte finish, versatile and durable
Dense and durable with a slight sheen, often used in structured garments
Luxurious with excellent drape, often used where elegance is desired
Dense yet flexible, excellent drape, sophisticated appearance
Heavier and denser, providing more structure while retaining fluidity.
Luxurious with a significant drape, more substantial feel.
USE CASES
Scarves, evening wear overlays, bridal veils, lightweight blouses.
Blouses, dresses, scarves, layered gowns
Blouses, dresses, evening wear
Ties, scarves, suiting, high-end fashion
Lingerie, evening gowns, blouses, high-end bedding
High-end dresses, structured garments, luxury evening wear
Formal dresses, blouses, luxury garments.
Bridal wear, heavy gowns, luxury bedding