REAL ZARI SARIS

Parvai’s Real Zari collection is reserved only for saris woven with zari that meets a clearly defined material standard and can be independently verified. The zari used in these saris typically records approximately 0.5% gold and around 40% silver, with copper forming part of the metallic structure of the thread. These values are closely aligned with the contemporary specifications recognised for real zari. For every sari in this collection, the zari is tested at multiple points, including the border, butta and pallu,  through non-destructive X-ray testing. Each sari is accompanied by its individual retest report, so the claim of real zari is supported by documented material evidence rather than by appearance, terminology or tradition alone. Parvai therefore does not classify every sari woven with metallic thread as part of its Real Zari collection. Only those saris that meet these parameters and carry verifiable test documentation are included. For us, the distinction is important: real zari should be measurable, traceable and transparent, while the sari itself continues to be judged by what ultimately matters, the quality of its silk, weave, proportion, design, hand and the skill of the artisans who made it.