Kanjivaram silk sarees are known for their beauty, shine, and rich tradition. But today, many fake sarees look just like the real ones. If you love sarees and want to buy a pure Kanjivaram silk saree, this guide is just for you. We will show you simple and smart ways to check if a Kanjivaram saree is original or not. Let’s learn how to find the real one like an expert!
1. Check the Silk Texture
One of the easiest ways to spot a genuine Kanjivaram saree is by feeling the texture.
- Pure Kanjivaram silk is made using mulberry silk, which is soft yet firm.
- It will have a natural shine, unlike artificial silk that often looks glossy.
- When you rub the silk between your fingers, it should feel slightly warm due to the natural fibers.
2. Examine the Zari Work
Zari is the metallic thread that’s woven into the saree, often in the borders and pallu.
- Pure Kanjivaram sarees use real silver zari dipped in gold, giving a rich and authentic look.
- Fake versions often use plastic or polyester threads painted in gold, which feel rough and fade over time.
- To test this, gently scratch the zari with a pin—if red threads or plastic shows up beneath, it’s not pure.
3. Observe the Saree Weave
Traditional Kanjivaram sarees are handwoven, not machine-made.
- Look closely at the joining point of the pallu and the body—in an authentic saree, the joint will be woven, not stitched.
- You may even notice a slight unevenness in the weave, a signature of handcrafted elegance.
- Pure handloom sarees often come with slight variations in design and threadwork—this is a mark of authenticity, not imperfection.
4. Burn Test (Use With Caution)
This is a traditional test used to identify real silk.
- Carefully take a small loose thread from the inner hem and burn it.
- If it’s pure silk, it will smell like burning hair and leave behind black ash.
- Artificial silk will smell like burning plastic and leave behind a hard bead.
⚠️ Note: Use this method only if you’re experienced or testing a loose thread from a damaged area. Never do this on a new saree.
5. Weight and Fall of the Saree
Kanjivaram sarees are heavier than other silk sarees due to the quality of silk and zari used.
- A pure Kanjivaram saree feels weighty, especially at the pallu and borders.
- Despite the weight, it drapes beautifully and has a graceful fall.
- Imitation sarees often feel light, stiff, or overly slippery.
6. Traditional Motifs and Colors
Pure Kanjivaram sarees carry iconic South Indian motifs like:
- Peacocks, elephants, temples, checks, stripes, and mango buttas (paisleys)
- Traditional colors like maroon, mustard, green, and royal blue are often paired with contrasting golden borders.
These motifs are handwoven into the saree using jacquard looms, not printed or embroidered.
7. Price Matters
A genuine Kanjivaram silk saree is a piece of art—and it reflects in the price.
- Pure sarees typically start from ₹10,000 and go up to lakhs, depending on the zari, design, and craftsmanship.
- If someone offers a “pure Kanjivaram” for ₹2,000–₹5,000, it’s most likely a blend or imitation.
8. Check for Silk Mark Certification
To ensure authenticity, always check for the Silk Mark label, issued by the Silk Mark Organisation of India (SMOI).
- It’s a government-approved tag certifying that the saree is made of 100% natural silk.
- Look for a hologram sticker and barcode on the label.
- This mark adds a layer of trust when buying from online stores or retailers.
9. Buy from Trusted Sources
Always purchase from reputed saree boutiques, handloom stores, or certified online sellers.
- Many popular stores provide certification, return policies, and customer support.
- Avoid buying from random street stalls or unknown online pages with no credibility.
Final Thoughts
A pure Kanjivaram silk saree is not just a garment—it’s a legacy, often passed down through generations. Knowing how to identify a genuine piece protects your investment and helps you celebrate the rich textile heritage of India.
Next time you shop for a Kanjivaram saree, keep these tips in mind to bring home nothing but the purest weave of elegance and tradition.
