India is renowned for its diverse silk production, contributing significantly to the global silk market. The country produces various types of silk, each with distinct characteristics and production processes..

1. Mulberry Silk:
   • Silkworm Species: Bombyx mori.
   • Process: Mulberry silk, the most common and widely cultivated silk in India, is derived from the domesticated silkworm Bombyx mori. These silkworms feed exclusively on the leaves of the mulberry plant, resulting in a fine, lustrous silk thread. Mulberry silk is known for its smooth texture, sheen, and versatility. It is the preferred choice for high-quality silk fabrics such as sarees, dress materials, and silk garments.
2. Tussar Silk (Kosa Silk):
   • Silkworm Species: Antheraea mylitta (Tussar silkworm).
   • Process: Tussar silk, also known as Kosa silk, is produced by silkworms that feed on leaves from various wild trees, including the Asan and Arjun trees. This type of silk is popular for its natural gold color and textured appearance. Tussar silk is often characterized by its coarser texture compared to mulberry silk, making it suitable for both traditional and contemporary attire.
3. Eri Silk (Endi or Errandi Silk):
   • Silkworm Species: Samia cynthia ricini (Eri silkworm).
   • Process: Eri silk is unique among silks as it is obtained without killing the pupa during the harvesting process, aligning with the concept of non-violent or "ahimsa" silk. Silkworms of the Samia cynthia ricini species feed on castor leaves, resulting in a creamy-colored silk with a soft texture. Eri silk is commonly used in woolen and mixed-fabric textiles and is gaining popularity for its ethical production method.
4. Muga Silk:
   • Silkworm Species: Antheraea assamensis (Muga silkworm).
   • Geographical Origin:
   • Process: Muga silk is indigenous to Assam and is produced by silkworms that feed on leaves from som and sualu plants. Known for its natural golden-yellow color and glossy texture, Muga silk is highly prized. It is often used to create traditional Assamese attire like Mekhela Chador and is considered one of the finest varieties of silk in the world. Muga silk also exhibits excellent durability and resilience.
5. Oak Tasar Silk:
   • Silkworm Species: Antheraea proylei (Tasar silkworm).
   • Process: Tasar silk is produced by silkworms that feed on various wild oak leaves. The process involves both domesticated and wild Tasar silkworms, making it a sustainable silk production method. Oak Tasar silk is characterized by its coarse texture, natural dull gold color, and strength. It is often used in the manufacturing of furnishings, accessories, and traditional tribal clothing.
6. Mysore Silk:
   • Silkworm Species: Bombyx mori.
   • Geographical Origin:
   • Process: Mysore silk is a variety of mulberry silk produced in the state of Karnataka, particularly in and around Mysore. Known for its exceptional quality and craftsmanship, Mysore silk is favored for sarees and other traditional garments. The silk is woven with intricate patterns and designs, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region. Has got GI Tag
7. Bhagalpuri Silk (Tussar Silk):
   • Silkworm Species: Antheraea mylitta (Tussar silkworm).
   • Geographical Origin: Bhagalpur, Bihar.
   • Process: Bhagalpuri silk, also known as Tussar silk, is produced in the Bhagalpur region of Bihar. It is characterized by its natural texture, earthy tones, and often features hand-painted or block-printed designs. Bhagalpuri silk sarees are popular for their unique aesthetic appeal and are considered a symbol of Indian handloom craftsmanship.
8. Baluchari Silk:
   • Silkworm Species: Bombyx mori.
   • Geographical Origin: West Bengal.
   • Process: Baluchari silk is a variety of silk saree that originated in the Baluchar village of Murshidabad, West Bengal. Known for its elaborate and intricate depictions of mythological scenes and historical events, Baluchari sarees are handwoven using mulberry silk. The unique designs are often highlighted with gold or silver zari work.
9. Kanchipuram Silk:
   • Silkworm Species: Bombyx mori.
   • Geographical Origin: Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu.
   • Process: Kanchipuram silk, also known as Kanjeevaram silk, is renowned for its rich texture, vibrant colors, and intricate zari work. It is handwoven in the temple town of Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, using pure mulberry silk. Kanchipuram silk sarees are highly sought after for weddings and other festive occasions.
10. Chanderi Silk:
    • Silkworm Species: Bombyx mori.
    • Geographical Origin: Chanderi, Madhya Pradesh.
    • Process: Chanderi silk is a luxurious silk produced in the town of Chanderi, known for its traditional handwoven sarees and fabrics. Chanderi silk is often combined with cotton or zari to create lightweight and elegant textiles. The sarees are known for their sheer texture and fine, intricate designs.
11. Dupion Silk:
    • Silkworm Species: Bombyx mori.
    • Process: Dupion silk, also known as Dupioni or Douppioni, is produced by weaving silk fibers from two silkworms that spin cocoons closely together. This creates a textured fabric with irregularities, providing a distinctive surface sheen. Dupion silk is commonly used for bridal wear, evening gowns, and luxury home furnishings.