Rudraksha beads have been revered for centuries for their spiritual significance and healing properties. However, with their growing popularity, the market is flooded with fake or low-quality Rudraksha beads. So, how to identify original rudraksha? Let’s dive into the details.

What is Rudraksha?

Rudraksha is a seed traditionally used as a prayer bead in Hinduism, especially in Shaivism. These beads are believed to have divine powers and are often worn as a necklace or bracelet for spiritual protection and well-being.

Rudrakshas are sourced from three places, namely Nepal, India and Java. Hence, the Rudrakshas that originate from Nepal is known as Nepali Rudraksha and Rudraksha sourced from India called Indian Rudraksha and which ones sourced from Java, Indonesia, are known as Java Rudraksha beads. The Nepal Rudrakshas have big in size, and have deep dark Mukhis that run from the top of the bead to the end of the bead whereas, the Rudraksha beads from Java are smaller in size, and their Mukhis are light but run from the head to tail of the Rudraksha. Only half moon shape one mukhi rudraksha comes from himalya India.

Types of Rudraksha

There are various types of Rudraksha beads based on the number of facets or ‘mukhis’ they have and their shape and size.

Meaning of Mukhi in Rudraksha

The term ‘Mukhi’ refers to the number of facets or clefts on the surface of the Rudraksha bead. It ranges from 1 to 21 mukhis, each having its unique significance and benefits.

Shape and Size

Genuine Rudraksha beads are typically round in shape, with clear and well-defined facets. The size can vary from small to large, but they should have a uniform appearance without any cracks or holes.

Genuine vs Fake Rudraksha

Identifying original Rudraksha beads from fakes can be challenging due to the clever methods used by counterfeiters. However, there are some reliable testing methods to determine the authenticity of the beads.

Real Rudrakshas from 1 Mukhi to 21 Mukhi are easily available in the market. The one Mukhi round shape Rudraksha is rare to find. However, many unscrupulous suppliers sell fake Rudraksha beads under the name of round 1 Mukhi Rudraksha, which is made from 5 Mukhi beads, betel nuts, areca nuts or berries or wood.

One Mukhi half-moon (Kaju Dana) is popularly sold as Himalya or Indian One Mukhi Rudraksha. It doesn’t have a natural hole, doesn’t grow in Nepal. It’s Indian as per Abhimantrit’s research, It has 80% healing benefit. These Half Moon rudraksha and Gol/ round fake one Mukhi are popularly sold at famous temple towns, websites, and stores at various price ranges duping the devotees by taking advantage of their lack of awareness.

The actual shape of the Rudraksha depends on the Mukhi lines, which decide the number of seeds and compartments inside the bead, which determines the shape. So a four Mukhi Rudraksha will have 4 seeds and compartments and, from the top view, will look squarish, a 5 Mukhi will have 5 seeds and compartments and will look pentagonal, 3 Mukhi will have 3 seeds and compartments and will look triangular. By this logic, one Mukhi will have one seed and compartment and will be Half elliptical in shape.

Nepali one Mukhi Rudraksha is so rare that a generation of farmers has not seen it, We advises all not to go looking for this bead as it is so rare that you may end up with a fake/manipulated bead, instead one should go for Ek Mukhi Himalaya rudraksha which is relatively easier to find and almost equally powerful. Many of our clients have been wearing One Mukhi Himalaya and have experienced miraculous results.

How to Check Rudraksha is Real or Not:

Rudrakshas have carvings of Trishul, Lingam, Serpent, and Om are not real Rudrakshas, and a real Rudraksha does not have any of these markings.
Few suppliers carve extra Mukhis into 4 to 7 mukhi beads and sell them off as a higher Mukhi Rudraksha with the greed to earn more money. 4 to 7 Mukhi beads are glued together to imitate Rare Gaurishankars, Savars, and Trijutis, which are of much higher value from the long time.
X-Ray is the only 100% trusted test to identify an original Rudraksha. The only test where you can know whether the Rudraksha is original, fake or manipulated. A real Rudraksha has the same amount of compartments as the Mukhis, and each compartment has a bead in it. X-Ray picture is attached below for the reference.
Copper coin test, a Rudraksha bead is placed between two copper coins, and it is said that if the Rudraksha is original, it will rotate. However, this is not true. This test does not yield accurate results, and one cannot rely on this test to identify real rudraksha. This test is thus a fake.
Milk test, the Rudraksha is soaked in a glass full of milk, and a few fake suppliers claim that the milk in which the Rudraksha bead is soaked remains fresh and does not curdle or does not spoil for 2 to 3 days. This test is absolutely fake and does not give any authentic results to identify original rudraksha.
Check if the Mukhis run from the head of the Rudraksha to the tail without being cut or distorted in between.
Look if the colour of the Mukhis is the same as they run from top to bottom
Use a magnifying glass to examine the artificially carved lines (which are generally very sharp) and glued surfaces on the bead.
One Mukhi round Nepali Rudraksha is rarely found. Also, the shape of one Mukhi is not completely round.
One can even cut the Rudraksha bead horizontally. If the Rudraksha has the same number of compartments as that of the number of lines, then the Rudraksha is genuine. However, the drawback is that by this method, the bead, if real would be destroyed and would be of no use.

How to Check Original Rudraksha in Water:

First, the Rudraksha is soaked in a glass full of water for a few hours. After a few hours, the bead is removed from the water, if the Rudraksha is original, it would still be hard, and would have uniform Mukhi colours from top to bottom, and this test always showcases if the bead has tiny holes in it or not. Note: This is a fake test, and we do not recommend any of you to try this test.
Second water test, the real Rudraksha bead is dropped in the water if the bead sink is believed to be an original bead. However, a fake Rudraksha made out of wood and impregnated with lead will sink in water, thereby giving a false impression of a real Rudraksha. Real Rudraksha beads that are fresh float in water due to less density. Over time as they absorb moisture and oil, they start sinking. Note: Thus, this method of testing is inappropriate and does not give any accurate results
Third test, we check whether the higher Mukhi beads (Gaurishankar Rudraksha or a Trijuti) are made by artificially joining two or three Rudraksha with the help of glue etc. Also, Counterfeit round 1 Mukhi is sold in both Nepali and Indonesia. Small pieces of Rudraksha are glued on four lines of a five Mukhi Rudraksha bead thus leaving only one deep line. Many suppliers join pieces of Rudrakshas and make them look like round one Mukhi or Gaurishankar and Trijuti. These beads are then sold at a much higher price. Once the Rudraksha is nicely soaked in water the hidden lines show up as the glue softens. In case of doubt, such Rudraksha should be soaked in water for 12-24 hours. It is thus said that by the water test we can find out whether the Trijuti Rudraksha or the Gaurishankar or the bead of higher Mukhi is made to appear as one Mukhi by applying glue on it. It is believed that this test shows whether a Rudraksha fakes the joint or is natural and genuine. But this test needs to be more accurate and precise.

FREE EXPERT OPINION:

You can send us the clear images of your Rudraksha to sure about the authenticity. WhatsApp the images of Rudraksha to our expert to check the authenticity absolutely FREE. 7017979946

Thus, the only authentic test to know whether a Rudraksha is real or not is through the X-Ray test. The rest of the tests, like the water test and the revolving Rudraksha between two coins, the milk test and so on, are not dependable parameters for testing. Also, these tests cannot accurately report or help us recognise real vs fake Rudraksha as an unripe but genuine Rudraksha may float on the water, and fake Rudraksha ones made out of wood impregnated with lead or by tampering an original Rudraksha may sink. Thus, rather than being worried about ‘how to find Original Rudraksha’ and worried about the Rudraksha authenticity, one must purchase the Rudraksha beads from a genuine supplier who is accountable to the people, and who would accept returns.

Buying Tips

When purchasing any 1 to 21 mukhi rudraksha beads, consider the following tips to ensure you get a genuine product.

Source of Purchase

Always buy from reputed and trusted sources to avoid getting scammed with fake or low-quality beads.

Price

Remember, genuine Rudraksha beads are rare and can be expensive. Be wary of sellers offering beads at unusually low prices; it’s often too good to be true.

Importance of Genuine Rudraksha

Wearing genuine Rudraksha beads can have numerous spiritual and health benefits, including stress relief, improved focus, and enhanced meditation practices. Therefore, it’s essential to identify and invest in authentic Rudraksha beads for maximum benefits.

Conclusion

Identifying genuine Rudraksha beads requires careful examination and knowledge of the various testing methods. By following the tips mentioned above, you can confidently purchase authentic Rudraksha beads and enjoy their spiritual and healing benefits.

FAQs

Question: How do I know if my Rudraksha bead is genuine?

Answer: You can use methods like the water test, heat test, and visual inspection to determine its authenticity.2

Question: What is the significance of Mukhi in Rudraksha?

Answer: Mukhi refers to the number of facets or clefts on the surface of the Rudraksha bead, each having its unique significance and benefits.

Question: Can I wear multiple Rudraksha beads together?

Answer: Yes, you can wear multiple beads together, but it’s essential to choose beads that resonate with your energy and intentions.

Question: Are there any side effects of wearing Rudraksha beads?

Answer: Generally, there are no side effects of wearing Rudraksha beads. However, it’s essential to ensure they are genuine to avoid any adverse reactions.

Question: Where can I buy genuine Rudraksha beads?

Answer: You can buy genuine Rudraksha beads from reputed spiritual stores, online platforms, or directly from trusted suppliers.

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