Kanchivaram silk sarees are a symbol of tradition, luxury, and craftsmanship, originating from the town of Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu. Known for their intricate designs, durability, and vibrant colors, these sarees are woven from the finest mulberry silk and zari, making them a popular choice for weddings, festivals, and special occasions. With the rise of e-commerce, purchasing Kanchivaram silk sarees online has become a convenient option, but it can also be challenging to ensure authenticity.
Shopping online for Kanchivaram silk sarees requires careful consideration, as the market is flooded with imitations and low-quality products. This guide aims to help you navigate through the process, ensuring you get a genuine Kanchivaram silk saree that is worth your investment.
Understand What Makes a Kanchivaram Silk Saree Authentic
Before you start shopping for Kanchivaram silk sarees online, it’s important to know what sets these sarees apart. Authentic Kanchivaram sarees are handwoven using pure mulberry silk and are distinguished by their durability, rich texture, and weight. The zari used in these sarees is often made of pure gold or silver, contributing to their high value. The craftsmanship involved in weaving a Kanchivaram silk saree is intricate, with motifs inspired by temples, nature, and Indian mythology.
The hallmark of an authentic Kanchivaram silk saree is its heavy fabric, rich colors, and a distinct pallu that contrasts with the body of the saree. Understanding these characteristics will help you recognize whether a product is genuine when browsing through online platforms.
Research Reliable Online Stores
When shopping for Kanchivaram silk sarees online, the first step is to find trustworthy platforms that specialize in selling authentic silk sarees. Some online marketplaces and websites claim to offer traditional silk sarees, but not all of them can be trusted. Look for websites that have a reputation for selling high-quality silk sarees, preferably those that focus on Indian ethnic wear or traditional sarees.
Check customer reviews and ratings on different platforms. Genuine buyers often leave feedback that will give you insight into the authenticity and quality of the sarees sold on the site. It’s also helpful to see if the platform provides detailed product descriptions and certifications for their silk sarees, as these indicate a serious commitment to authenticity.
Look for Government Certifications
One of the best ways to ensure the authenticity of Kanchivaram silk sarees online is by checking for government certifications. In India, the Silk Mark certification is a sign of genuine silk. The Silk Mark is issued by the Silk Mark Organization of India (SMOI) and guarantees that the product is made of pure silk. Authentic Kanchivaram silk sarees are often accompanied by this certification, and many reputable sellers prominently display the Silk Mark logo on their products.
Another important certification is the Handloom Mark, which ensures that the saree is handwoven and not machine-made. When buying Kanchivaram silk sarees online, look for these certifications in the product description or images to verify that you are purchasing an authentic piece.
Examine Product Descriptions Carefully
Product descriptions play a crucial role when buying Kanchivaram silk sarees online. A genuine seller will provide detailed descriptions of the fabric, weaving technique, and zari used in the saree. Pay attention to the type of silk mentioned—terms like “mulberry silk,” “pure silk,” and “handloom” are indicators of a high-quality saree. Avoid sarees labeled as “art silk” or “synthetic silk,” as these are imitations of the real Kanchivaram silk sarees.
Also, examine the images provided closely. Authentic Kanchivaram silk sarees have a rich, lustrous texture and are heavier compared to their synthetic counterparts. If the product images look too glossy or overly edited, it’s possible that the saree may not be genuine. Reputable sellers usually provide multiple images, including close-ups of the zari work and the pallu, to showcase the saree’s intricate details.
Inquire About the Zari Used
Zari, the metallic thread used to embellish Kanchivaram silk sarees, is another key factor in determining authenticity. Pure zari is made from silver or gold-coated threads, which contribute to the saree’s luxurious appeal and high cost. Imitation zari, on the other hand, is made from synthetic materials and does not carry the same value or durability.
When shopping online, look for sarees that mention the use of pure zari in the description. If the seller does not specify the type of zari used, it’s advisable to reach out to customer support and inquire. Authentic Kanchivaram silk sarees with pure zari will often be on the pricier side, so be cautious of sellers offering low prices for sarees that claim to use pure zari.
Verify Return and Exchange Policies
Another important aspect to consider when shopping for Kanchivaram silk sarees online is the return and exchange policy. Authentic Kanchivaram sarees can be an expensive investment, and you should have the option to return or exchange the product if it doesn’t meet your expectations. Before making a purchase, carefully read the seller’s return and exchange policies. Reputable sellers will offer a fair policy, allowing you to return the saree if it is damaged, not as described, or doesn’t meet the authenticity standards.
Set a Budget, But Avoid Very Low Prices
While it’s important to set a budget for your purchase, be cautious of sarees being sold at significantly lower prices than expected. Authentic Kanchivaram silk sarees are known for their quality and craftsmanship, which often comes at a higher cost. A saree that is priced too low may be an imitation made from artificial silk or low-quality materials. Compare prices across different platforms, and if a deal seems too good to be true, it likely is.
Conclusion
Shopping for Kanchivaram silk sarees online can be a rewarding experience when done with careful consideration. By understanding the characteristics of an authentic Kanchivaram silk saree, researching reliable sellers, checking for certifications, and examining product details, you can ensure that your purchase is genuine and of high quality. Always be cautious of prices that seem unusually low and take advantage of platforms that offer return and exchange policies. With these tips in mind, you can confidently buy an authentic Kanchivaram silk saree online and enjoy its timeless beauty for years to come.
