| RAREST OF BREEDS
Suri alpacas were first brought to the United States in 1991. Importations have brought Suri alpacas from Bolivia, Chile and Peru, giving U.S. breeders access to genetic material from all three countries in South America that produce Suri alpacas.
It is known from archaeological records that alpacas have been domesticated for 6,000 years. Early depictions of Suri alpacas dating from between 5 and 20 thousand years ago can only be found on the western slopes of the Andes mountains in Peru. The Suri appears as a distinct breed in pre-Colonial textiles, pottery and Jewlery. The word Suri appears to originate from the aymara language, and according to world-renowned alpaca expert Dr. Julio Sumar, refers to the lustrous quality exhibited by the flowing locks of these wonderful animals.
Today, breeders of North American alpacas enjoy the best bloodlines from South America, providing an excellent livelihood and lifestyle with the beautiful and rare Suri.
Suri alpacas are distinguished in the camelid family by their unique fiber characteristics. The fiber grows parallel to the body while hanging in long, seperate, distinctive locks. Its artistic style enhances the graceful appearance of the animal compared to the soft, wooly look of huacaya alpacas.
The fiber of the suri alpaca is coveted by the fashion industry and cherished by hand spinners. Its softness of cashmere, luster of silk, warmth and featherweight of goose down, durability of wool, and ability to accept color dyeing makes it a favorite of all fiber enthusiasts. Suri fiber blends well with wool and other fine fiber, including silk, and the yarn can be knitted, crocheted, or woven.
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