What makes a Kanjivaram
A true Kanjivaram is woven from pure mulberry silk, often with a contrasting border and pallu. In the traditional korvai technique the border is woven separately and interlocked with the body, so the join is strong enough to outlast the saree itself. Temple (gopuram) borders, checks, stripes and motifs such as the peacock, parrot and mango are typical. Kanchipuram silk carries a Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
Pure zari or tested zari
Pure zari is silver thread coated with gold; it ages gracefully and keeps value. Tested zari uses copper or synthetic thread with a metallic coating — lighter and more affordable, but it can tarnish. Both are genuine Kanjivaram weaves; the listing or the seller should say which one you are buying.
How to care for it
Dry clean only. Store it wrapped in a soft cotton or muslin cloth, away from plastic, and refold it every few months along different lines so the zari does not crack at the folds.
Questions buyers ask
How can I tell if a Kanjivaram is pure silk?
Pure silk feels smooth and slightly warm, and a thread burnt from the edge smells like burnt hair and leaves crumbly ash. Synthetic thread melts into a hard bead and smells of plastic. Ask the seller for close-ups of the border join and zari.
Why are Kanjivaram sarees heavy?
They use thick multi-ply mulberry silk and a lot of zari, especially in the border and pallu. The weight is part of their drape and durability.