Buying a Rudraksha is not just about owning a sacred Rudraksha - it's about owning something that is believed to have deep spiritual and healing powers. But with so many imitations on the market, it's easy to get caught up in buying a fake Rudraksha.
The good news is, you don't have to be an expert to see the difference. With a few simple checks, anyone can tell the difference between a real Rudraksha and a fake Rudraksha.
In this guide, we'll show you 7 easy ways to tell the difference. So you can know whether a Rudraksha is real or fake.
What is Rudraksha?
Rudraksha is basically the seed of the fruit of a tree called Allocarpus genitrus, which grows mainly in India, Nepal, and Indonesia.
The word Rudraksha comes from Sanskrit: Rudra, another name for Lord Shiva, and Aksha: eyes. Therefore, it is often called "Shiva's tears".
People usually wear them as a rosary, either as a mala (necklace) or by stringing them together as a bracelet.
There are different types of beads called "mukhis" (faces/lines on the surface). Each type of bead is believed to have different spiritual effects.
Traditionally, people use Rudraksha to bring peace of mind, meditation, and to remove negative energy.
This is a natural seed, used as a spiritual rosary, and revered for its calming and healing properties.
How to identify Real Rudraksha?
Here we will show you how to tell if a Rudraksha is genuine or fake. Below are some ways that you can see and learn.
Step 1: Check how many faces are present
Each Rudraksha bead has natural lines, called Mukhis, on it. These lines run from one side of the bead to the other.
A real Rudraksha has natural, clear, and unbroken Mukhis, with no artificial cuts or lines.
How to Test
Carefully count the number of mukhis.
A magnifying glass can be used to check whether the lines on it are natural or Artificial.
Step 2: The Water Test
One of the most common and simple ways to check authenticity is through the Water Test.
Step-by-Step Process
Take clean water in a glass bowl.
Use transparent water (preferably normal room-temperature drinking water).
Immerse the Rudraksha bead.
Drop the bead into the bowl of water and let it settle naturally.
Observe the behavior
· Genuine Rudraksha: It usually sinks to the bottom because of its natural density and oil content within the seed.
· Fake or artificial Rudraksha: It may float or feel unusually light. Beads made from wood, plastic, or hollow materials will not sink properly.
Check for Artificial Tampering
Sometimes, fake beads are made by joining two seeds or carving grooves on ordinary seeds. After soaking in water for 1–2 hours, check carefully:
If there are glued joints, they may loosen or show bubbles.
A genuine bead remains intact and does not show such signs.
Limitations of the Water Test
· Not 100% conclusive: Some genuine Rudraksha varieties (especially smaller or rare mukhis) may float due to natural differences in density.
· Heavy counterfeits: Fake beads filled with lead or metal can also sink, giving a false impression of authenticity.
Step 3: Perform the Milk Test
Some sellers claim that if you put Rudraksha in milk, the milk will change color and turn into curd, or if true, its volume will decrease.
· Fact: This is not a scientifically valid test. Changes in milk can be caused by bacteria, acidity, or impurities, not by Rudraksha. Therefore, the "milk test" is unreliable for determining authenticity.
Step 4: Examine the Bead’s Surface
Hold the rudraksha bead in your hand.
Gently run your fingers over its surface.
A natural bead will feel rough and uneven, with small ridges and grooves.
If the bead feels too smooth, shiny, or polished, it may be treated or fake.
So you can quickly sense the difference between an authentic rudraksha and an imitation.
Step 5: Verify with Certification
The safest way to know your Rudraksha is real is to buy it from a trusted seller who gives a certificate of authenticity.
Good Rudraksha and gemstone labs usually check the bead with X-rays or microscopes to confirm the number of mukhis (lines) and its inner structure.
Step 6: Copper Coin Check
The belief that a genuine rudraksha rotates when placed between two copper coins is actually a myth.
The movement occurs due to the bead’s rounded shape and textured surface, which creates mechanical force, not because of any unique magnetic property.
In fact, any rounded object with surface protrusions can produce a similar effect.
Step 7: Testing the Rudraksha by Boiling
Some sellers or guides suggest boiling a Rudraksha bead in water or milk for a few hours to see if it gets damaged.
Genuine Rudraksha is believed to remain intact and not crack easily.
Fake or artificial Rudraksha (made of wood, plastic, or glued pieces) may swell, discolor, or split apart.
Always Choose Trusted Sellers
Always purchase your Rudraksha from a reputable brand such as Dakshis, renowned for its commitment to authenticity and premium-quality spiritual products.
Trusted sellers ensure customer satisfaction by providing genuine Rudraksha jewelry accompanied with proper certification.
Types of Fake Rudrakshas Found in the Market
- Plastic or Resin Beads: These are artificial Rudrakshas made from plastic or resin. They may look shiny and perfect, but they are artificial and not real.
- Wooden Beads or Other Seeds: Some sellers use ordinary wooden beads or seeds from different trees and pass them off as Rudrakshas.
- Modified or Carved Rudrakshas: In this type, a real Rudraksha is altered by carving to show extra lines (mukhis), making it look like a rare and expensive one.
- Stuck or Joined Beads: Here, two or more beads are glued together to give the impression of a rare Rudraksha variety.
- Beads with Designs or Symbols: Some fake beads have artificial carvings, images, or shapes added to make them look special or divine.
Conclusion
Finding the difference between the original and fake Rudraksh is simple if you carefully follow the 7 ways shared above. Since Rudraksh is sacred and powerful, it should always be purchased from a trusted source.
We are certified and reliable sellers, offering only genuine Rudraksh with proper authenticity certificates.
With us, you can be assured that every Rudraksh you receive is original and carries the true spiritual power to bring peace, health benefits, and positivity into your life.
Discover our brand Dakshis, and explore a wide collection of authentic Rudraksha products. Each one was tested, certified, and ready to bring divine blessings into your life.
FAQs
1. How to check if a Rudraksha is real or not?
A real Rudraksha can be verified through lab certification and expert examination. Always buy from trusted sources to ensure authenticity.
2. How does a fake Rudraksha look?
Fake Rudraksha often looks too smooth, shiny, or artificially polished. They may be made of wood, plastic, or molded seeds to imitate the real ones.
3. How to activate Rudraksha?
To activate a Rudraksha, it is usually washed with clean water or milk and then energized with mantras. Wearing it after prayers or rituals helps align it with positive energy.
4. Is it OK to wear Rudraksha while sleeping?
Yes, it is generally safe to wear Rudraksha while sleeping as it carries positive energy. However, if you feel discomfort, you may remove it before bed.
5. What is the real color of Rudraksha?
The natural color of Rudraksha is typically brown with shades ranging from light to dark. Over time, it may darken as it absorbs oil, sweat, or regular puja offerings.
Dakshis FAQs
1. Will I receive the original Rudraksha that I ordered?
Yes, you will receive a 100% authentic and original Rudraksha.
2. What is the warranty period for the product?
The product comes with a 1-year warranty.
3. Can I return this product?
If you face any issues with your order, simply visit our website, click on the Easy Returns link, and provide the necessary information.
4. Will the product be the same as shown in the photo?
Yes, the product you receive will be exactly as shown in the photo.
5. When will the product be delivered?
The product will be delivered within 5 to 7 days
