- By Bornika Das
- Sat, 24 May 2025 05:45 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Tests To Check Pure Silk Saree: Silk sarees are a legacy and an investment. The allure of the silk sarees is undeniable. They are a classic representation of style, custom and Indian artistry. However, with the growing demand for the silk saree in recent times, there has been a surge in imitations and synthetic alternatives in the saree market. It becomes extremely important to understand the difference between a fake silk saree and a pure silk saree. Spotting a fake silk saree can be tricky, especially when they closely mimic the texture and shine of the real thing. Thus, to check the authenticity of the silk saree, here are five foolproof tests that can be conducted at home.
Identifying the originality of the pure silk saree does not require you to be a textile expert. There are several simple, foolproof tests to identify a pure silk saree at home. These tests include practical methods such as touch test, visual tests to famous burn test that will help saree lovers to determine whether the silk saree is real or a synthetic alternative. Here are five foolproof tests to identify a pure silk saree at home.
Fake Silk Saree vs Real Silk Saree: Expert Tips To Identify The Authenticity
Touch Test
Silk is a natural protein fibre known for its softness and smoothness. To test the authenticity of a pure silk saree, run your fingers gently across the fabric. A genuine silk saree feels soft and supple, almost cool to the touch. A pure silk saree must have a slight grip, unlike synthetic fabrics that can feel slippery or stiff.
Crinkle Test
Gently crumple a small portion of the silk saree between your fingers and then release it. If the saree is real has natural elasticity. When crumpled, it will form soft wrinkles that quickly smooth out on their own. This is because the silk fibres have a natural "memory" that helps them retain their shape. However, synthetic materials tend to hold the crease more prominently and may take longer to regain their smooth form or can even retain a permanent wrinkle appearance.
Burn Test
This test should be performed with care. Carefully hold a tiny thread of the saree over a flame source like a candle lighter. Real silk will burn slowly with a faint, almost hair-like odour. It will leave a fine, black ash that crumbles easily when touched. However, synthetic fibres tend to melt or shrink quickly when exposed to a flame. Besides, they emit a strong, unpleasant plastic-like smell and leave behind a hard, beady residue instead of ash.
Tests To Identify Authentic Silk Saree At Home (Image Credits: Instagram)
Water Test
When a small drop of water is placed on the real silk saree, the water gets absorbed slowly due to iys natural protein structure. The water droplet will take a few seconds to spread and eventually be absorbed by the fabric. For synthetic silk saree, the water gets repelled. The water droplet will likely bead up and roll off the fabric surface.
Visual Test
Real silk has a natural lustre that changes subtly depending on the angle of light. It should shimmer beautifully, not with a harsh, artificial shine. A duplicate silk saree will not show the natural shine of the real silk. Besides, authentic silk sarees often have intricate, well-defined weaves, unlike the synthetic fabrics, which may have a more uniform, machine-made appearance. The pure silk saree will also be slightly translucent and you will not be able to see completely through it. Extremely transparent fabric is likely a synthetic blend.
