It is primarily produced in the northeastern Indian states of Assam, Nagaland and Meghalaya, but it is also found in Bihar, Odisha, West Bengal and Andhra Pradesh on a smaller scale.
The silk is produced by worms that consume the leaves of the castor oil plant (Ricinus communis).
The silk is characterized by its soft texture and natural colors, which range from white to faint gold, with some variations appearing in rust-red.
It has been grown in 28 provinces of Thailand since 1974[2] where the heavy rainfall and humid atmosphere of the region suits the eri culture.
Renowned for its rustic look, eri silk has excellent thermal properties, ensuring coolness in summer and warmth in winter.
The thermal properties of eri silk makes it a suitable fabric for shawls, jackets, blankets, and bed spreads.
Vegan designer Lucy Tammam uses eri silk in her couture evening and bridal wear collections.