Frequently Asked Questions

Product

What is Pink Maharani cashmere, and where does it come from?

Our cashmere comes from the Changthang Valley in the Himalayas, sourced from the rare Changra goats.

How are your shawls different from regular cashmere scarves?

Each Pink Maharani piece is 100% handmade, crafted under strict social and environmental standards (B Corp certified). Every embroidery is designed and completed by a single artisan over months of work, making each shawl truly one-of-a-kind. By choosing our shawls, you are supporting artisan families, preserving traditions, and contributing to Indian NGOs—all while acquiring a timeless heirloom.

Are all your products handwoven and hand-embroidered?

Yes. All shawls and stoles are handwoven and embroidered. (Other handmade products such as ponchos may also be offered—see collection.)

Do your shawls come with a certificate of authenticity?

Yes. Every shawl and stole includes a certificate of authenticity.

What does “made to order” mean?

It means your piece will be crafted especially for you, allowing for personalisation or custom embroidery.

Are all of your cashmere shawls 100 percent made of cashmere?

Yes. Every Pink Maharani shawl uses pure cashmere sourced from fine Pashmina fibre collected in the Changthang plateau of the Himalayas. The yarn is hand spun and the fabric is handwoven by master artisans, then finished with hand embroidery where applicable. No blends are used for our cashmere shawls.

Personalisation

How many letters can I embroider?

Up to 4 letters.

What thread colours and fonts are available?

We offer a curated selection—please contact us for current options.

Where can the monogram be placed?

Placement can be discussed to best fit the design.

How long does customisation take?

Timelines vary depending on embroidery, usually several weeks.

Are customised pieces refundable or exchangeable?

No, customised pieces are final sale.

Can I completely personalise my shawl?

Yes. We can implement a fully bespoke design, from base colour and size to motif and layout. Share your idea or reference and our team will translate it into an embroidery plan, timeline, and quotation. Please get in touch to begin.

What elements are customisable and which ones are not?

Most elements are customisable, including base colour, size, embroidery motif, pattern density, thread colours, monograms, borders, and fringe finish. Practical limits can apply to extremely dense or photorealistic artwork, protected trademarks without written permission, colour requests that compromise colourfastness, and structural changes that could affect drape or longevity. Very large or complex designs may extend timelines. Our team will advise the best way to achieve your vision.

Care

Do you offer repair services for older Pink Maharani shawls?

Yes, depending on the type of repair required (frays, tears, embroidery touch-ups).

How do I request a repair?

Contact us directly via email or phone.

How should I care for my cashmere?

  • Handwash separately in cold water with mild/baby shampoo.
  • Rinse, press gently with a towel (do not wring/twist), dry flat or loosely hung away from sunlight.
  • Store in a cool, moth-safe space.
  • Embroidered pieces are best dry-cleaned.
  • Refresh by airing in open air.

Can you repair items not purchased from Pink Maharani?

Yes, on a case-by-case basis.

Orders

Where do you ship?

Worldwide. Timelines and fees depend on location (max. 21 days).

What are your shipping timelines?

  • Ready to ship items: dispatch within 2 to 5 business days.
  • Customised or made to order pieces: timelines vary by embroidery complexity.
  • Transit times: typically 2 to 7 business days within Europe, 3 to 10 business days to North America and many other regions. Remote locations and customs clearance can extend delivery. To some regions it may take up to 14 days.

Do you offer express or gift delivery?

Yes. Express delivery is available at an additional fee. Special gift requests (wrapping, notes) can be added in the order comments.

How will my order be packaged?

Each shawl/stole is wrapped in tissue, placed in an orange gift box, and accompanied by a booklet and certificate.

Do you charge duties/taxes for international orders?

We offer free worldwide shipping. Import duties and taxes, including VAT where applicable, are payable by the client directly to the shipping company at or before delivery. Shipping covers carriage only.

Returns & Exchanges

What is your return policy?

Returns/exchanges are accepted within 14 days of delivery if unworn, undamaged, and in original condition.

Can customised or repaired items be returned?

No.

How do I initiate a return?

Email us at info@pinkmaharani.com within 14 days of receiving your order. We will share return instructions and the return address.

How long do refunds take?

Refunds are processed once we receive and inspect your return.

Commitment

How does my purchase support artisans?

Every shawl supports artisan families in India, helping preserve centuries-old traditions.

Where are your artisans based?

Primarily in Kashmir and surrounding regions.

What is Pink Maharani’s mission?

To create luxury pieces rooted in tradition, respect, and beauty—while ensuring ethical work and environmental sustainability.

Do you work with women’s cooperatives or NGOs?

Yes, we partner with local associations and cooperatives.

How do you ensure ethical sourcing and fair pay?

Through direct partnerships, transparency, and B Corp certification.

Pricing & Payments

Why are your shawls more expensive than regular cashmere?

Cashmere is a rare material, and embroidery can take months by a single artisan. Our pricing reflects the artistry, time, and fair compensation for artisans.

What currencies and payment methods do you accept?

We accept major global payment methods.

Do you offer instalments or financing?

Available on request depending on region.

Are taxes included?

  • Switzerland: prices include Swiss VAT.
  • European Union: prices shown do not include import VAT. The import VAT will be collected by the shipping company.
  • Outside the European Union: prices shown are net. Any import duties and taxes will be collected by the shipping company.

Gifting

Can I send a Pink Maharani shawl as a gift?

Yes. Our shawls are a popular choice for weddings, anniversaries, and meaningful gifts.

Do you offer gift wrapping or personal notes?

Yes, simply specify in your order comments.

Can customised shawls be gifted?

Absolutely—personalised shawls make treasured gifts.

Services

Can I commission a one-of-a-kind piece?

Yes, we accept bespoke commissions.

Can I commission a one-of-a-kind piece?

Yes, we accept bespoke commissions.

Do you collaborate with designers or events?

Yes. Past collaborations include Jil Sander and artisan showcases at our Geneva store.

General

Where is Pink Maharani based?

Our atelier is in Geneva, Switzerland.

How do I contact you?

  • Email: info@pinkmaharani.com
  • Phone: +41 77 288 48 33

Where can I see your products in person?

  • Geneva: Globus, Bongénie, Pink Maharani Old Town boutique
  • Zurich: Bongénie Zurich & Zurich Airport
  • Basel: Bongénie Basel
  • Chavannes-de-Bogis: Bongénie
  • Gstaad: Marina Anouilh
  • Worldwide: Holt Renfrew (Toronto), Selfridges (London), Explora Cruises

Do you work with wholesale or retail partners?

Yes—contact us for wholesale inquiries.

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