Fake Rudraksha beads are everywhere, from glossy plastic imitations to machine-carved fakes that look almost perfect. Many people buy them with faith, not realising they may be wearing something with no divine energy at all.
What is a Rudraksha and Why Its Authenticity Matters
According to the Shiva Purana, when Lord Shiva opened His eyes after deep meditation, tears fell to the earth, and from those tears, Rudraksha trees (Elaeocarpus Ganitrus) were born.
Each bead is considered sacred, representing divine power, protection, and peace.
But the energy of Rudraksha works only when it’s real.
An original Rudraksha carries natural vibrations that align with the wearer’s aura, balancing energy, calming the mind, and even supporting healing.
A fake bead, on the other hand, is just a piece of wood or resin, spiritually empty.
That’s why identifying a genuine Rudraksha isn’t just about avoiding scams; it’s about respecting something sacred.
How to Identify Original Rudraksha?
A real Rudraksha has certain physical and energetic traits you can recognise even without being an expert.
● A real Rudraksha has natural lines (called Mukhis) that run from top to bottom.
● It feels woody, rough, and light, not smooth or plastic-like.
● It has a natural hole through the center.
● The number of Mukhi (faces) and internal seeds always match.
● It feels peaceful to hold, often even “warm” in your palm.
Key Characteristics of an Original Rudraksha
1. Natural Mukhis (Lines or Faces)
Every Rudraksha bead has vertical lines, called Mukhis, which define its type.
For example, a 4 Mukhi Rudraksha has four deep natural grooves that run from one end to another. In genuine beads, these lines are not carved or scratched; they are formed naturally as part of the seed’s structure.
The Shiva Purana mentions that each Mukhi represents a different form of Lord Shiva and offers specific benefits. Hence, the accuracy of the Mukhi count directly determines its energy and purpose.
2. Surface and Texture
A real Rudraksha bead feels rough, with natural ridges and tiny bumps. It should not look glossy, polished, or too perfect. Also, no two real Rudraksha beads are identical, just like no two human fingerprints are the same.
Many fake Rudrakshas are machine-polished or coated to appear shiny. But real ones carry an earthy, uneven charm, which is a mark of nature, not industry.
3. Weight and Feel
An original Rudraksha feels like dry wood, light yet strong. It should not feel overly heavy or hollow. If you place it in your palm, you’ll sense a natural calmness, a subtle warmth or vibration.
4. Natural Hole
Every genuine Rudraksha has a natural hole running through the center.
This is where it was attached to its fruit on the tree.
If the hole looks drilled, too smooth, or unnatural, it’s likely a fake bead.
Many sellers drill holes into fake beads to mimic authenticity — always observe closely.
5. Colour and Origin
The natural colour of Rudraksha beads varies from light brown to deep reddish-brown. If it looks bright red, shiny black, or artificially colored, it’s likely dyed.
In general:
● Nepal Rudraksha: Bigger, heavier, with deeper lines and naturally formed central hole
● Indonesia Rudraksha: Smaller, smoother, and naturally formed central hole
Both are original, but their only difference lies in geography, not divinity.
Traditional Home Tests for Rudraksha Identification (That Work & Don’t Work)
For centuries, devotees have used simple home methods to check Rudraksha authenticity. Some help a little while others are pure myths. Let’s understand both clearly.
1. The Water Test
Fill a glass of water and drop your Rudraksha inside. If it sinks, it’s usually dense and likely real. If it floats, it may be fake, but not always.
Here’s why:
A real Rudraksha can float if it’s too dry or light. Similarly, a fake one can sink if it’s filled or coated with heavy glue.
Verdict:
Use it only as an initial check. It’s not 100% reliable.
2. The Milk Test
Many old beliefs say that if you put a Rudraksha in milk and it doesn’t spoil, it’s real. However, there’s no scientific or spiritual evidence to support this. Sometimes milk changes colour because the bead had a mud coating but not divine energy.
Verdict:
This test is misleading. Authenticity cannot be judged by milk.
3. The Copper Coin Test
In this old trick, you place the bead between two copper coins and if it spins, it’s said to be real. But that rotation happens due to shape and texture, not energy.
Verdict:
A complete myth. Don’t rely on it.
4. The Boiling Test
People boil Rudraksha in water to check if it breaks or shows glue marks. It can reveal fake glued beads, but it also damages real ones.
Verdict:
Avoid it unless you’re ready to ruin your bead.
Home Tests Summary
|
Test Name |
Belief |
Reality |
Recommendation |
|
Water Test |
Sinks = real |
Sometimes true |
Use cautiously |
|
Milk Test |
Milk stays fresh |
Myth |
Avoid |
|
Copper Test |
Spins between coins |
Physics, not energy |
Ignore |
|
Boiling Test |
Reveals glue |
Damages real bead |
Not advised |
Scientific Tests for Authentic Rudraksha Identification
Traditional tests give partial clarity, but for complete assurance, scientific methods are essential.
1. X-Ray Test
The most reliable method is the X-ray test, which shows the number of internal seeds inside the bead. Each Mukhi should have one natural compartment. If an X-ray shows fewer chambers than visible lines, it’s a carved fake.
This method is even referenced in Rudraksha Jabala Upanishad, emphasising that true Rudraksha has perfect internal symmetry.
2. Microscopic Examination
Experts use microscopes to check whether the grooves are natural or carved by tools. Tiny tool marks, straight unnatural lines, or glue seams reveal artificial modification.
3. Density and Hardness Test
Genuine Rudraksha beads have consistent density. Under professional testing, fake ones show hollow interiors or uneven density due to artificial joining.
4. Certification and Authenticity Report
Always ensure your Rudraksha comes with a lab certificate confirming:
● Origin (Nepal, Indonesia, or India)
● Mukhi count
● Natural formation verified
These certificates ensure the bead’s purity and remove doubt.
Common Fake Rudraksha Types & How to Spot Them
1. Plastic or Resin Beads: Shiny, smooth, and light. If all beads look identical, they’re plastic moulds.
2. Wooden or Other Seeds: Sellers often carve lines into regular seeds. You’ll notice soft texture and unnatural cuts.
3. Carved Extra Mukhis: Low-Mukhi Rudrakshas are sometimes carved to look like higher Mukhi beads. Under a magnifier, you’ll see inconsistent grooves or tool marks.
4. Glued or Joined Beads: Two or three Rudrakshas glued together to imitate rare beads like Gauri Shankar or Trijuti. Look for glue lines, colour mismatch, or uneven patterns.
5. Dyed or Polished Beads: Unnaturally shiny beads are usually dyed. Real Rudraksha colour fades gently over time.
Differences Between Nepal, Indonesia & Indian Rudraksha
Many ask, which one is better? Here’s a simple answer: All are divine if natural.
|
Type |
Size |
Surface |
Origin |
Common Use |
|
Nepal |
Larger, heavier |
Deep grooves |
Himalayas |
Most sought after |
|
Indonesia |
Small, smooth |
Fine lines |
Java & Bali |
Common for malas |
|
Indian |
Medium |
Mixed texture |
North,Eastern and Southern India |
Traditional use |
Both Nepalese and Indonesian Rudrakshas are authentic, but the energy difference is subtle.
How Rudra Samrat Ensures 100% Authenticity
At Rudra Samrat, our each rudraksha bead goes through triple verification, visual inspection, microscopic testing, and certification. Only 100% natural and original Rudraksha beads are approved. Every bead is handled with devotion, respecting its spiritual essence.
Why Buy Your Rudraksha Online From Rudra Samrat?
Handpicked by Rudraksha Expert – Arushan R Katyal
Every bead is carefully selected and verified by our in-house Rudraksha expert, ensuring authenticity and spiritual integrity.
100% Genuine Nepali Rudraksha
We offer only natural and original Nepali Rudraksha beads, which are known for their purity, strong vibrations, and divine connection.
100% Authentic Lab-Certified Rudraksha
Each Rudraksha comes with a Certificate of Authenticity and lab testing report, confirming its originality and natural formation.
Collector-Grade Rudraksha Beads Available
Bigger and more powerful collector beads are available for those seeking higher spiritual potency.
Customized Options
Customers can choose between Normal Bead and Collector Bead, with or without Silver Capping for personalised preference.
Ethically Sourced & Origin Verified
Rudrakshas are sourced from authentic origins (Nepal/India), maintaining transparency in quality and sourcing.
Key Takeaways
● Not all brown beads are Rudraksha.
● Check natural lines, texture, and central hole.
● Avoid myths like the milk test and coin test.
● Rely on certification for final confirmation.
● Always buy from trusted, verified sellers.
An original Rudraksha carries spiritual energy, so treat it with faith and awareness.
FAQs
1. Can real Rudraksha float in water?
Yes. Sometimes real Rudrakshas float if they’re dry or light in density.
2. What if the hole is drilled?
A drilled hole means it’s likely fake or modified.
3. Are Indonesian Rudrakshas less powerful?
No. They’re smaller, and hence less effective than Nepalese beads.
4. Can fake Rudraksha cause harm?
Not physically, but it carries no spiritual vibration.
5. How many Mukhis are there in a real Rudraksha?
1 to 21 Mukhis exist naturally.
6. Is colour important for originality?
No. Focus on texture and lines, not shade.
7. Can Rudraksha be worn by anyone?
Yes. It’s universal and suitable for all ages and faiths.
8. How often should I clean my Rudraksha?
Wash it with Reetha (Soapnut) Water Wipe with clean water and a dry cloth once a month. Avoid soap or chemicals.
