How do you recognize a pure Kanchipuram silk saree?
Well, there are a few things you can do. Buy from reliable stores for one thing. Genuine Kanchipuram handwoven sarees cost upwards of Rs. 10,000. If a “grand” saree appears to be priced very low, ask the salesperson if it is a “tested zari” saree. This means that the border zari is not made with silver dipped in gold.
Other “tests” listed include burn a strand of the zari to see if it burns to ashes without emitting a wierd smell. Some suggest rubbing the zari on an abrasive surface to see if there is gold dust. The other way is to pull out of the gold thread. Inside should be a red thread– the mark of an authentic saree. But really, given our busy lives, the best way is to cultivate an honest outlet that you trust.
