Describes the structure and properties of the cochineal dyestuff of carmine acid (CA) and considers possible ways of CA combining with silk in the form of mordant, direct, and acid dyes. Undesirable side reactions of CA, resulting in the formation of insoluble compounds when CA is extracted from cochineal and silk is dyed in the extract, are presented. The 17th-19th-century dyeing recipes were analyzed. Presents methods of an experimental investigation of the CA extraction and silk dyeing processes. The results and quality of dyeing models are assessed and genuine 17th-19th-century textiles discussed.