Silk was a much sought-after commodity in Roman imperial times. Many ancient texts deal directly and indirectly with questions concerning the origin, production and processing of silk. In my talk I will investigate the ancient terminology of silk as well as its supposed origins and ways of exchange along the Silk Road as presented in ancient text sources. In particular I would like to deal with the following questions: What kinds of silk were known in the Mediterranean area, and where did they supposably come from?What can we learn from written sources about its production and processing?Which finished products are mentioned?