We’re thrilled to share Barron’s feature, Iceland, Home to the World’s Most Expensive Feather Treasure, which shines a spotlight on Iceland’s sustainable eiderdown industry. The video showcases the care, craftsmanship, and dedication behind creating one of the world’s most luxurious and eco-friendly natural fibers.
Breiðafjörður Bay: The Center of Eiderdown Excellence
The video highlights Breiðafjörður Bay, where eider ducks nest under the watchful care of local farmers and collectors. Erla, one of the owners of King Eider, explains how the down is carefully harvested to respect the natural lifecycle of the birds. This sustainable process ensures both the welfare of the eiders and the quality of the harvested down.
From Nest to Duvet: Crafting Luxury
The journey from nest to quilt is a meticulous one. After harvesting, the raw eiderdown—mixed with natural debris like grass and eggshells—is cleaned and purified. Páll Jónsson, an expert cleaner, explains how the down is heated to remove impurities and ensure its pristine quality. This transforms the raw material into the world’s lightest, warmest, and most insulating natural fiber.
Why Eiderdown Is Extraordinary
Eiderdown is truly unique. Known for its unmatched lightness and insulation, it’s a natural treasure reserved for crafting premium duvets and quilts. With approximately 60 nests needed to produce just one kilogram, eiderdown is both rare and luxurious.
Sustainability at Its Heart
Eiderdown harvesting is a shining example of Iceland’s commitment to sustainable practices. The harmony between humans and nature is at the core of this industry, ensuring that this ancient tradition thrives for generations to come.
Experience Icelandic Eiderdown
As featured in Barron’s, Icelandic eiderdown is more than just a material—it’s a story of craftsmanship, sustainability, and luxury. Discover the magic of eiderdown in our collection of products.
Want to learn more? Watch the full video on Barron’s here.