Secrets of Kanjeevaram Sarees! How to identify pure kanjivaram

 Kanjivaram (or Kanchipuram) silk sarees are not only symbols of luxury but also a rich expression of Indian heritage. Known for their vibrant colors, intricate designs, and heavy silk, they are popular for weddings, celebrations, and other cultural events. Here’s what to look for when ensuring a saree is genuinely Kanjivaram.

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1. Feel and Texture

• Silk Quality: Authentic Kanjivaram sarees are woven from mulberry silk, which has a soft, smooth, yet sturdy feel.
• Weight: Kanjivaram sarees are generally heavier than other silk sarees due to the thickness of the silk yarn used and the weight of the zari work.

2. Zari Quality

• Pure Zari: True Kanjivaram sarees use silver threads coated in gold for zari work. Hold a magnet close to the zari—pure silver-gold zari won't be attracted to the magnet, while synthetic or imitation zari may stick.
• Test for Durability: Genuine zari threads will last longer without tarnishing, while imitation ones can fade or darken quickly.

3. Three-Shuttle Weaving Technique

• One unique feature of a Kanjivaram saree is its three-shuttle technique, where the saree’s body, border, and pallu are woven separately. This results in a noticeable join where the body and border meet, known as the “korvai” technique, creating contrast colors and bold patterns that are instantly recognizable.

4. Burn Test for Silk Purity

• Take a tiny, inconspicuous piece of silk thread from the saree’s edge and burn it carefully (only do this if allowed by the seller or if the saree is your own). Pure silk will burn slowly, leaving behind ash that crumbles, while synthetic silk will melt and leave behind a hard residue.

5. Certification Tags

• Most genuine Kanjivaram sarees carry a Silk Mark label from the Silk Mark Organization of India, a government-regulated certification for genuine silk products. Always check for this tag as it verifies the silk's authenticity.

6. Vibrant Color and Motifs

• Authentic Kanjivaram sarees often feature motifs inspired by temples, nature, and mythology, such as peacocks, parrots, and temple borders. The colors are vibrant and vivid, achieved by dyeing the threads before weaving, which helps retain their intensity over time.

7. Durability and Longevity

• Pure Kanjivaram silk is extremely durable, known for lasting decades if properly cared for. A simple way to test this is by holding the fabric up to the light—pure silk will have a fine, even weave with no signs of wear in new sarees.

Where to Buy Authentic Kanjivaram Sarees

For the finest Kanjivaram sarees, choose reputable stores known for their authenticity. Here are a few trusted places to explore:

• Aikyatha: Known for its selection of traditional handloom Kanjivaram sarees, emphasizing cultural authenticity.
• Angadi: A legacy brand, Angadi offers beautifully woven Kanjivaram sarees that adhere to traditional standards.
• Nalli: One of India’s most iconic stores for silk sarees, Nalli is renowned for its quality and heritage collections.
• Kanakavalli: Specializing in a wide range of handloom sarees, Kankavalli is a trusted name in the industry, offering a variety of authentic Kanjivarams.

When purchasing, remember that authentic Kanjivarams are often on the higher end in terms of price, reflecting the quality of silk and zari used.