What 'genuine' means
A genuine Rudraksha is the natural seed of the Elaeocarpus tree, with Mukhis formed naturally — not carved, glued, moulded or filled. The visible lines should match the number of internal seed chambers.
Common ways beads are misrepresented
- Extra lines carved into a lower Mukhi to pass it off as a rarer one.
- Two beads glued together and sold as Gauri Shankar.
- Moulded or resin imitations, particularly of 1 Mukhi.
- Seeds from other trees sold as Rudraksha.
- Natural cracks or holes filled with paste.
Visual checks you can do
- Lines run continuously from top to base with natural, slightly irregular edges.
- Grooves have no sharp tool marks or filler.
- The surface has natural protrusions and an even colour.
- There are no cracks or large insect holes.
Myths about testing
Floating or sinking in water, copper-coin rotation and boiling tests are popular but unreliable — both genuine and fake beads can pass or fail them, and boiling can damage a real bead. An X-ray is the dependable method.
What a lab report should show
A useful report identifies the bead, includes photographs, and uses X-ray or CT imaging to show the number of internal chambers. It should name the issuing laboratory so it can be checked.
Origin and grading
Nepali and Indonesian beads are both genuine Rudraksha; they differ in size and texture. Within each origin, beads are judged by shape, surface, line clarity and size. Mauhurtika lists origin and certification details on each product page; please refer to the product listing and our certification page for what applies to a specific bead.
Caring for quality over time
Keep beads dry, away from soap and perfumes, oil them lightly every few months and restring malas before the thread breaks.
A note on tradition
Mauhurtika describes Rudraksha from the standpoint of Hindu tradition, scripture and Jyotish practice. These are religious and cultural associations, not medical or scientific claims, and a Rudraksha is not a substitute for professional medical, financial or psychological advice.
Frequently asked questions
Is the water test reliable?
No. Floating or sinking does not prove authenticity. An X-ray is the dependable test.
Can Indonesian Rudraksha be genuine?
Yes. Indonesian beads are genuine Rudraksha — smaller and smoother than Nepali beads.
What does an X-ray show?
The number of internal seed chambers, which should match the visible Mukhis.
Does every bead need a certificate?
It is most important for rare and higher Mukhis, where misrepresentation is more common.