What is the history of silk?

The silk fiber is said to be discovered in China although the exact origin of silk is still faded. The Chinese have kept the process of silk cultivation a secret for nearly 3000 years. It is believed that silk was used in the prehistoric times in about 3600BC. The Chinese own their development for sericulture to the Empress Leizu while it is also said that the silk fabric is an expensive commodity only worn by rich individuals. With increased production of silk fabric, the silk trade route started to develop and export of silk started as the Chinese began interchanging silk for other expensive items.

Later, the process of sericulture eventually reached Korea and India and later other Asian countries however the method employed by Chinese was regarded as of higher quality.

In addition, silk was considered as a precious commodity in the ancient civilizations of Greece and Rome.