Woven with threads of tradition and shimmering with timeless elegance, the Kanjivaram silk designer saree is a treasured heirloom in India. Crafted by skilled weavers in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, these sarees boast a legacy dating back centuries.  From the delicate motifs meticulously handwoven onto pure mulberry silk to the intricate zari work that shimmers with real gold or silver threads, every element of a Kanjivaram saree speaks of unparalleled artistry. However, with the rising popularity of these exquisite sarees, the market has seen an influx of imitations.  Fret not, saree connoisseur! In this blog post, Glamourental shares some tips on how to identify a pure Kanjivaram Silk Saree.

1. Examine the Silk Fabric

The primary indicator of a pure Kanjivaram saree is the quality of the silk. Genuine Kanjivaram silk is made from pure mulberry silk threads and has a natural sheen. Here's how you can test the silk:

• Touch and Feel: Pure Kanjivaram silk is soft, smooth, and has a fine texture. Run your hand over the fabric; it should feel smooth and not rough.
• Burn Test: While not always practical, the burn test is a definitive method. Take a small thread from the saree and burn it. Pure silk will smell like burnt hair and leave behind a fine ash, while artificial silk will smell like burning plastic and form a lump.

2. Check the Weave and Patterns

Kanjivaram sarees are known for their intricate designs and traditional motifs such as temples, peacocks, and checks. The craftsmanship involved in weaving these patterns is highly detailed.

• Intricate Weaving: Look closely at the patterns. In a genuine Kanjivaram saree, the designs are woven with precision and clarity.
• Double Warp: Authentic Kanjivaram sarees are woven using a double warp, making the fabric stronger and more durable. Hold the saree up to light; you should not be able to see through it easily due to the density of the weave.

3. Inspect the Zari Work

The zari (gold or silver thread) work on a Kanjivaram saree is a significant aspect of its authenticity. Pure Kanjivaram sarees use real gold and silver zari threads.

• Pure Zari: Real zari is made by twisting a silver thread with a silk thread and then coating it with gold. Fake zari, on the other hand, is made with plastic or copper wire.
• Rub Test: Gently rub the zari part with your fingers. If it feels soft and does not lose its shine, it’s likely pure. Fake zari will feel rough and may lose its color when rubbed.

4. Check for the Silk Mark Label

The Silk Mark is an assurance label by the Silk Mark Organization of India (SMOI), certifying that the saree is made of pure silk.

• Silk Mark Tag: Always check for a Silk Mark tag on the saree. This tag is a guarantee of authenticity provided by the government.

5. Weight of the Saree

Pure Kanjivaram silk sarees are relatively heavier than their synthetic counterparts due to the use of high-quality silk and zari.

• Feel the Weight: When you drape the saree over your hand, it should feel heavy and substantial, reflecting the density of the silk and the elaborate weaving.

6. Price Point

Authentic Kanjivaram sarees are expensive due to the quality of materials and the time-intensive weaving process.

• Reasonable Pricing: If a Kanjivaram saree is priced too low, it is likely not genuine. Be wary of prices that seem too good to be true.

About Glamourental

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