Silkmark Eri Silk Sarees – Ethical Silk from India’s Northeast

Understanding Eri Silk as a Distinct Indian Fibre

Eri silk is a unique variety of silk traditionally produced in the northeastern regions of India, particularly in Assam. Unlike mulberry silk, Eri silk is known for its matte texture, soft hand feel, and thermal adaptability. It is often referred to as “peace silk” because the fibre is harvested without killing the silkworm, allowing the moth to emerge naturally from the cocoon. This ethical aspect, combined with its durability and comfort, gives Eri silk a distinct place within India’s textile heritage.
Silkmark certification further authenticates the purity of the silk, ensuring that the fabric meets established standards for genuine silk content. In this category, Silkmark Eri silk sarees represent a convergence of material integrity, regional knowledge, and responsible textile practice.

Fibre Characteristics and Fabric Qualities

Texture, Comfort, and Climate Suitability

Eri silk fibres are thicker and shorter than mulberry silk fibres, resulting in a fabric that is soft, slightly coarse in appearance, and naturally breathable. Eri silk sarees are valued for their ability to regulate temperature, providing warmth in cooler conditions and comfort in warmer climates. This makes them suitable for extended wear and everyday use, beyond purely ceremonial contexts.
The fabric has a natural, subdued sheen rather than a glossy finish, allowing colour and weave structure to stand out. Eri silk also accepts natural and vegetable dyes well, contributing to earthy tones and muted palettes commonly associated with this textile tradition.

Weaving Traditions and Craft Practices

Handloom Weaving and Regional Knowledge

Eri silk sarees are traditionally woven on handlooms by skilled artisan communities who possess generational knowledge of yarn preparation, tension control, and weave balance. The weaving process prioritises strength and comfort, often using simple weave structures that highlight the character of the fibre rather than heavy ornamentation.
Design elements are typically subtle, with understated borders, stripes, or woven motifs. When present, decorative details are integrated into the weave itself rather than applied as surface embellishment, maintaining the fabric’s softness and functional integrity.

Sarees in Contemporary Relevance and Cultural Continuity

In contemporary contexts, Silkmark Eri silk sarees are appreciated for their alignment with mindful consumption and slow textile traditions. While adapting to modern colour preferences and styling sensibilities, they remain rooted in regional craft systems and ethical fibre practices. As a category, these sarees represent a quieter narrative of Indian silk—one defined by comfort, sustainability, and continuity of indigenous knowledge rather than visual opulence.