Handloom Zari Kota vs Power Loom Zari Kota

Powerloom replication of zari Kota sarees is rampant. However, using the following tell-tale indications it is quite easy to tell counterfeit and authentic handloom zari Kota sarees apart.   

No loose threads

In genuine handloom sarees although thread tension may vary, no loose ends of threads appear behind motifs. 

After weaving, powerloom sarees have leftover fake zari yarns behind their motifs. These loose yarns may come apart with a slight pull.   

Quite lightweight

Zari Kota and Kota doria are diaphanous fabrics. Hence, despite the extensive use of real 1gm gold zari, our sarees are quite lightweight.

Conversely, counterfeit sarees are heavier due to the use of rigid fake zari. 

Smaller khats

In authentic handloom zari Kota sarees the signature check pattern or khats are compact and may have negligible irregularities.

Whereas, their powerloom counterparts feature a larger and uniform check pattern.   

GI Mark

All real zari Kota handloom sarees crafted in Kota bear the official Kota doria GI mark.

Powerloom sarees bear no such mark, since it is illegal to replicate in counterfeit sarees.

Longer weaving duration

Based on the design nuances, weaving of an authentic handloom zari Kota saree from start to finish takes around 2-7 months.

Whereas, a powerloom can produce 15 or more zari Kota sarees in a single day.     

Certificate of authenticity

Each SónChiraiya zari Kota saree comes with its own certificate of authenticity.

This may not be the case with powerloom sarees. 

Now that you know exactly what to look for, we hope you find both the authentic zari Kota sarees of your dreams and your money’s worth.