Zari Work

Zari (or Jari) is an even thread traditionally made of fine gold or silver used in traditional Indian, Bangladeshi and Pakistani garments, especially as brocade in saris etc. This thread is woven into fabrics, primarily of silk, to make intricate patterns and elaborate designs of embroidery called zardozi. Zari was popularised during the Moghul era, the port of Surat was linked to the Meccan pilgrimage route which served as a major factor for re-introducing this ancient craft in India.

However nowadays, modernized version of zari, known as metallic zari; has replaced the traditional gold and silver threads. These metallic zari threads are made by wrapping metallic yarn on cotton thread. This metal embroidery threads; has uniform flexibility, evenness and ductility. Metallic zari has resistance to rust, is durable and light in weight, as compared to the traditional zari thread.

Zari is gold and zardozi embroidery is the glittering and heavily encrusted gold thread work. Zari metallic threads are now available in different colors other than gold and silver; and give the same royal look. Zari threads are shrink resistant, which prevents the final product from losing its shine. Zari is famous for its intricate designs and attractive patterns. This metal coated zari wire is economical than silver threads; and they do not color fast and has a very fine finish. Zari embroidery work is mainly the specialty of Lucknow, Bhopal, Hydrabad, Delhi, Agra, Kashmir, Mumbai, Ajmer and Chennai.