Giza cotton refers to specific varieties of extra-long staple cotton grown in Egypt, named after the Giza region. Different Giza numbers indicate different varieties with varying quality.
Giza Grades
| Variety | Quality | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Giza 45 | Finest | Longest staple, rarest |
| Giza 87 | Excellent | Very long staple |
| Giza 88 | Very good | Long staple |
| Giza 86 | Good | Standard ELS |
| Giza 90 | Standard | Common variety |
Giza 45
The pinnacle of Egyptian cotton: - Staple length 1.5"+ (36mm+) - Very fine micronaire - Silky, lustrous - Extremely rare (1-2% of Egyptian crop) - Premium pricing
Why Numbers Matter
"Egyptian cotton" alone is vague - could be any grade. Specific Giza variety indicates: - Actual quality level - Traceability - Genuine Egyptian origin
Verification
Authentic Giza cotton should have: - Specific variety identified - Reputable brand - Appropriate pricing (Giza 45 isn't cheap)
In Towels
Premium towels may specify Giza variety: - "Giza 45" = Top tier - "Giza 87/88" = Excellent - Just "Egyptian" = Unknown grade
Related Terms
- Egyptian cotton - General category
- Long-staple cotton - Quality indicator