Surat Zari Gold Silver Thread Weaving Surat Gujarat

Surat in Gujarat is India's largest producer of metallic zari (gold and silver thread) used in saree borders, lehenga embroidery, and brocade weaving. Surat's zari industry produces real zari (gold-wrapped silk thread), imitation zari (polyester with metallic coating), and badla (flat metallic strip). The craft of Surat zari-making involves drawing gold or silver wire to extreme fineness, wrapping it on a silk or cotton core, and weaving or twisting it into various decorative forms. Surat supplies zari to Varanasi Banarasi weavers, Kanchipuram silk weavers, Hyderabad lacework embroiderers, and directly to the fashion embroidery market. The Surat Zari Weavers Cooperative has historically managed worker welfare and grade standards. Synthetic imitation zari has reduced the market share of real gold and silver zari, but premium handloom sarees and bridal lehenga continue to use authentic Surat real zari.