zari

Zari is a type of thread used for metallic embroidery in South Asian textiles. The word derives from Persian zari, meaning gold thread. Traditionally zari consisted of a fine gold or silver wire wrapped around a core material and woven into fabrics such as brocades and saris.

In modern practice, real gold or silver zari is rare in many commercially produced fabrics. Many zari threads have a copper or polyester core plated with gold or silver foil, or use metallic yarns marketed as zari. Zari can be woven into fabrics (zari brocade, zari weave) or used in embroidery (zari work), producing motifs such as florals, leaves, and geometric patterns.

Zari is central to several South Asian textile traditions, notably Banarasi silk brocades, Kanjivaram saris, shawls and dupattas. It has historical roots dating to ancient India and Mughal patronage, with craft centers in Varanasi, Lucknow, Surat, Hyderabad, and Kashmir. While valued as luxury ornament, contemporary zari often relies on synthetic alternates to balance cost and accessibility.