How to Identify a Genuine 8 Mukhi Rudraksha Bracelet Before Buying

Author: Ecozone Lifestyle

Rudraksha beads have gained remarkable popularity in the UK as more people embrace holistic wellness, spiritual accessories, and energy-based healing. Among them, the 8 Mukhi (Eight-Faced) Rudraksha is especially sought after for its association with Lord Ganesha and its believed power to remove obstacles, improve confidence, and bring stability. But with this rise in demand comes an increase in fake, factory-made, or chemically treated beads.

If you’re in the UK and planning to buy an 8 Mukhi Rudraksha bracelet, here’s a simple, reliable guide to ensure you choose a genuine bead rather than an imitation.

Know the Natural Characteristics of 8 Mukhi Rudraksha

A genuine 8 Mukhi bead has:

  • Eight natural vertical lines (mukhis) running from top to bottom.
  • A rough, natural texture—not overly smooth or polished.
  • A lightweight, wooden seed feel.
  • A slight natural variation in shape and colour (all beads shouldn’t look identical).

If the bead looks too perfect, identical, or plastic-like, it’s likely fake.

Perform the Water Test

One of the simplest authenticity checks:

  • Place the bead in a bowl of clean water.
  • A genuine Rudraksha remains intact and does not leak colour.
  • Fake or chemically treated beads may release dye, glue, or show surface changes.

Avoid sellers who refuse to allow a basic water test.

Check for Drilled Holes

Many counterfeit beads are made by artificially carving mukhis into regular seeds:

  • Look closely at the hole drilled for the thread.
  • A natural bead has a clean internal channel.
  • Fake beads often have cracks, uneven carving, or glue marks around the hole.

Verify Lab Certification

In the UK, trusted sellers provide third-party laboratory certificates confirming:

  • The bead’s origin
  • Number of mukhis
  • Natural, untreated status

Look for certification from recognised labs like:

  • IGL (International Gemological Laboratories)
  • GJSPC
  • Govt-Approved Gem Labs in India (as most Rudraksha originate from Nepal/India)

Avoid certificates printed by the seller themselves—always choose independent labs.

Consider the Source of the Bead

Authentic 8 Mukhi Rudraksha mainly come from:

  • Nepal (best quality, larger, more powerful)
  • India (best quality, larger, more powerful)
  • Java/Indonesia (smaller beads but very subtle and smooth)

If a seller claims "Made in UK" Rudraksha, that’s a red flag—Rudraksha trees do not grow in the UK.

Compare Weight and Feel

Genuine Rudraksha beads:

  • Are lightweight
  • Have natural ridges and texture
  • Feel slightly warm to touch due to organic material

Fake beads made from plastic, clay, or resin feel heavier, colder, or too uniform.

Avoid Extremely Low Prices

If the price seems too good to be true—it probably is.A real 8 Mukhi Rudraksha bracelet, especially with Nepal beads, cannot be extremely cheap due to limited supply and craftsmanship.

Always prefer reputable UK sellers or trusted Indian/Nepalese exporters with strong customer reviews.

Check Online Reviews & Return Policies

Before purchasing:

  • Read verified customer reviews on UK platforms (Google, Etsy, Amazon UK, Trustpilot).
  • Ensure the seller offers transparent return and refund policies.
  • Look for real customer photos instead of stock images.

Final Words

Buying an 8 Mukhi Rudraksha bracelet in the UK is easy—but buying a genuine one requires awareness. By examining the bead’s natural features, checking certification, verifying authenticity tests, and choosing trusted sellers, you can confidently invest in a bracelet that truly carries spiritual significance and long-term value.