An essential piece of each Indian woman’s wardrobe is their silk saree. They come in a variety of patterns and styles and have a beautiful, timeless appearance. Because pure silk thread is used to make silk sarees, their cost is higher than that of other textiles. However, pure silk sarees are the best option if you want to treat yourself to something truly exceptional.
Tips to Identify Pure Silk Saree
We want you to be knowledgeable when purchasing pure banarasi, so we’re giving you some simple advice on how to tell a pure silk saree from an artificial or art silk saree.
1. Feel the Weight of the Saree
Sarees made entirely of pure silk are renowned for feeling airy. A saree that feels too bulky could have been blended with other synthetic materials to give the impression that it is thicker and more abundant. Furthermore, synthetic materials retain heat more easily than pure silk, which makes them heavier.
2. Visual Inspection
Examine the saree closely for any irregularities or inconsistencies in the weave. Pure silk sarees typically have a uniform texture and even distribution of threads.
3. Touch and Feel
Gently feel the fabric between your fingers. Pure silk should feel soft, smooth, and luxurious to the touch. Synthetic fabrics, on the other hand, may feel rough or synthetic.
4. Burn Test
Take a small piece of thread from the saree and burn it carefully. Genuine silk will burn slowly with a smell resembling burning hair, while synthetic fibres will melt and produce a plastic-like odour.
5. Price and Brand
While price alone is not a definitive indicator of authenticity, pure silk sarees are generally more expensive than their synthetic counterparts. Purchase from reputable brands or certified sellers to ensure the quality and authenticity of the product.
6. Water Test
This test can offer some information, but it is not foolproof. Apply just a little of water to the saree. Water will bead up and slide off of synthetic clothes, whereas pure silk will absorb it more slowly.
7. Inquire About the Dyeing Process
A saree’s authenticity can also be determined by the method of dying it. Natural dyes applied by hand are typically used to produce vivid, long-lasting colours for pure silk sarees. The fabric has probably been dyed with synthetic dyes if you notice that the saree’s colour is irregular or smells chemical.
8. Check for Imperfections in the Fabric
Since pure silk is a natural material, its weave may have certain defects. Often, these flaws are called “slubs,” which are tiny knots or lumps in the fabric. These slubs give the silk saree individuality and are an indication of its genuineness. They shouldn’t, however, be very noticeable or numerous, as this can suggest that the silk is of inferior quality.
The Bottom Line
Identifying a genuine silk saree can be tricky, but with these tips and tricks, you can make an informed purchase decision. Remember to examine the fabric’s weave and texture, check for imperfections, conduct a burn test, look out for authenticity labels and certifications, inquire about the dyeing process, and consider the price. Seeking expert opinion can also help you ensure that you are purchasing a high-quality pure silk saree.