THE REAL SILK TEST: HOW TO SPOT REAL VS FAKE SILK IN 5 EASY STEPS

When it comes to choosing the right saree, nothing matches the grace of silk. But with so many silk varieties out there, it can be difficult to know if you’re buying pure silk or a mixed, fake fabric. If you’re shopping for fancy silk sarees, a little extra knowledge can go a long way in making sure your investment is real.

In this quick and easy authentic silk saree guide, we break down 4 simple tests that you can do at home (or even at the store) to conduct a real vs fake silk test. Let’s get right into it.

1. The Burn Test

The first and most common silk authenticity check is the burn test. When you carefully burn a loose thread from the edge of the fabric:

• Real silk smells like burning hair and leaves behind soft, powdery ash.

• Fake silk smells like burning plastic and forms a hard, round bead.

While this test is effective, use it with caution - especially on expensive fancy silk sarees. It’s always best to try this on a hidden thread or fabric sample, if available.

2. The Texture Test

Can you identify pure silk with just your fingers? The answer lies in texture.

• Real silk feels soft, rich, and has a gentle unevenness when rubbed.

• Fake silk feels too smooth, plasticky, and lacks that natural warmth.

In fact, one of the easiest ways to do a real vs fake silk test is simply to close your eyes and run your fingers over the fabric. The slight bumps and inconsistent texture of real silk are a telltale sign.

3. The Water Absorption Test

This one’s simple but surprisingly accurate. Drop a few drops of water onto the fabric.

• Real silk absorbs water instantly and dries quickly.

• Fake silk lets the water sit on the surface for a while before slowly soaking in.

It’s a quick silk authenticity check you can do anywhere, and very handy when evaluating new fancy silk sarees in-store.

4. The Shine Test

One of the most beautiful qualities of silk is its natural sheen. But the way it reflects light reveals whether it's the real deal.

• Real silk has a soft, dual-tone shine that shifts with movement and light.

• Fake silk usually has a harsh, overly bright shine that stays flat.

When buying fancy silk sarees, hold them up to the light and observe the depth of colour. This authentic silk saree guide wouldn’t be complete without this visual trick - it rarely fails.

A silk saree is more than just a piece of fabric - it’s a story woven in threads, passed across generations. With these four simple tests, you now know how to identify pure silk with ease. From touch to light, and fire to water, each real vs fake silk test helps you get closer to the truth of your fabric.

At Kuberan Silks, we understand that a saree isn’t just a purchase - it’s an heirloom. Which is why every piece we offer undergoes a meticulous silk authenticity check to ensure you're draping nothing but the finest. From traditional weaves to contemporary classics, explore our handpicked collection of fancy silk sarees that are crafted with legacy, trust, and timeless elegance in every thread.