It is a really nice blanket, a lovely periwinkle kind of very light, blueish purple. It already feels cool to the touch when you hold it. When you lie under it, it is also nice and cool, and stays that way. It is not light weight, I do not like too heavy blankets and this one is just right. It also has an expensive look and feel to it.
It can be machine washed and has clear instructions as to how to wash and dry it, on the attached label.
It had no chemical smell at all and was packaged real well and protecting it from dirt.