How to Identify Original Kanjipuram Silk Saree: Buyer's Guide

How to Identify Original Kanjipuram Silk Saree: Buyer's Guide

Kanjipuram silk sarees, or Kanchipuram sarees, are India's most esteemed handwoven silks. Renowned for their long-lasting nature, sheen, and heavy zari work, these sarees are often passed down as family heirlooms. Sadly, the popularity has also brought about duplicates. If you are going to invest in one, it is crucial to know how to identify a genuine Kanjipuram silk saree.

In this guide, we'll take you through the major indicators to check for while purchasing a pure Kanjipuram silk saree — and why reliable shops like Pulimoottil Silks, Thrissur are where you should shop.

1. Ensure Silk Mark Certification

The best method to guarantee authenticity is the Silk Mark label given by the Silk Mark Organisation of India (SMOI). Original Kanjipuram silk sarees bear this label, which guarantees the fineness of the silk.

2. Check the Zari Work

Original Kanjipuram sarees employ pure silver and gold-plated zari threads. You can test the zari by scratching it lightly. If it reveals a red silk thread under it, then it is original. Replicas use polyester or plastic threads.

3. Observe the Weaving Pattern

Kanjipuram sarees have one special method: body and border are woven independently and interlocked in a zigzag shape. This seam is so robust that it does not come off even if the saree is ripped. Machine-made imitations, on the other hand, have borders loosely attached.

4. Touch the Weight and Feel

An authentic Kanjipuram silk saree is heavier than synthetic alternatives due to the density of pure mulberry silk and real zari. The texture feels soft yet firm, unlike the slippery feel of artificial fabrics.

5. Test the Silk

If possible, remove a loose silk thread and burn it slowly. Genuine silk has the odor of burnt hair and produces a fine ash. Synthetic threads, however, have an odor like plastic and create hard lumps.

6. Check the Pallu and Border

In authentic Kanjipuram sarees, pallu (ornamented end piece) and body are separately woven and later fixed. This characteristic is a sign of genuineness.

7. Price Check: Too Good to Be True?

Pure Kanjipuram sarees are an investment. If a seller offers them at very low prices, it is most likely a counterfeit. Authentic sarees usually start from ₹7,000–₹10,000 and can go up to lakhs, depending on the craftsmanship and zari purity.

8. Buy from Trusted Sources

Always buy from well-known showrooms, approved handloom shops, or genuine online stores. If you happen to be in Kerala, Pulimoottil Silks in Thrissur is one of the most trusted places to go. With a rich tradition of trust and genuineness, they stock a comprehensive range of certified authentic Kanjipuram sarees procured directly from master weavers.

Pulimoottil Silks also offers online shopping options — you can browse their special collections through their official website or even order with ease through WhatsApp. This way, even if you are unable to visit their showroom in Thrissur, you can still possess an authentic Kanjipuram silk saree from home.

Final Thoughts

Having an original Kanjipuram silk saree is like having a part of Indian heritage. Through examining the silk mark mark, zari quality, weaving designs, and purchasing from reliable sources such as Pulimoottil Silks, Thrissur, you can be certain of having a true masterpiece.

Whether you are a bride-to-be or an enthusiast of traditional weaves, being aware of these identification tips will enable you to select the authentic Kanjipuram saree that will be with you for generations. And with Pulimoottil Silks' WhatsApp order option and site shopping facility, procuring your dream saree has never been simpler.