The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide to Identify Genuine Kanchipuram Silk Sarees

The Kanchipuram Silk Saree is a crown jewel of the Indian handloom tradition, the true symbol of elegance and grandeur. Woven from pure mulberry silk, the Kanchipuram silk saree shimmers in the majestic blend of tradition, craftsmanship, and timeless beauty. As you step into the luxurious world of silk sarees, you’ll find yourself enchanted - not just by the grandeur of authentic Kanchipuram silks, but also by the convincing allure of their imitations. These imitations mimic the pure Kanchipuram Silk saree so closely, that even your wardrobe will nod in approval. Spotting an original Kanchipuram Silk saree is like recognizing loyalty in the crowd of lookalikes. Here are some sharp tips to help you distinguish the authentic from the artificial.

Check the Silk - It should feel like Royalty

• There are different varieties of silk threads available. In an authentic Kanchipuram Silk saree, the weavers use pure mulberry silk. When touched, it feels so rich and smooth.
• The pure Kanchipuram saree illuminates a natural delicate glow, unlike the plasticky shine of synthetic fabrics.
• While rubbing it gently, pure silk will feel warm between the fingers due to its natural fiber.

Look at the Zari work - Real Glow, not glitter

• The defining feature of the original Kanchipuram Silk Saree is its zari work which glows naturally, not glitters.
• In the authentic silk sarees, the durable, soft mulberry silk threads are woven with real silver and gold zari threads to create designs and patterns.
• While scratching the zari thread, they will reveal a red silk thread inside, which is the pure silk saree. Imitations often use polyester or plastic cores.

Border and Pallu – Watch the Fusion Line

• Unlike other sarees where the border is an extension of the body, running with it, Kanchipuram sarees have distinct, sharp borders and pallus.
• It is achieved through the Korvai technique - a traditional weaving method where the body, border and pallu of the saree are woven separately - often in contrasting colors and then interlaced.
• A zig-zag weave instead of a smooth transition can be seen at the joint between the body and the border.
• The contrast in color isn’t just dye work; it’s structural.
• It can be seen how the border is woven harmoniously into the body of the saree. This is a technical masterpiece that the imitations failed to replicate.

The Weight Test

• The pure Kanchipuram Silk saree is slightly heavier than any other fabric due to the thick silk and real zari work.
• Sometimes the border alone can be felt heavier than the body of the saree.
• They give beautiful drapes over the silhouette, unlike other stiff garments.

Burn Test:

• One of the effective ways to identify pure Kanchipuram silk is the Burn test.
• While putting it in flames, the pure silk burns slowly, creating a smell similar to burnt hair and it will leave a smooth black ash.
• On the other hand, synthetic fabric creates a burnt plastic smell and leaves a sticky ash.

Look for Traditional Designs and Motifs:

• Though the traditional motifs and designs of the original Kanchipuram weavers are copied exactly, the authenticity can be felt while holding a real Kanchipuram Silk Saree.
• These sarees bear intricate designs inspired by our tradition and are rooted in our daily life.

Buy from Trusted sources:

• A true Kanchipuram Silk Saree is not worn, it is inherited. So it is always preferable to buy from trusted showrooms or reputed retailers who are known to be selling only genuine products.
• These renowned sellers and showrooms often foster trust with silk mark certificates and guarantees for their sarees.

Why is Priyangaa the right choice for authentic Kanchipuram Silk Sarees?

1. The House of Priyangaa delivers premium quality silk sarees meticulously crafted by our own cluster of master weavers whose craft has been honed and handed down through generations.
2. Customization is one of the important features available in the House of Priyangaa. You can customize your dream saree.
3. Loved and trusted by saree enthusiasts around the globe, The House of Priyangaa brings the elegance of silk sarees to your doorstep with the convenience of online shopping with the same authenticity, quality, and charm.
4. The hallmark of Priyangaa’s silk sarees lies in their distinctive designs and signature color palettes, setting them apart with an elegance that speaks for itself.