Oldest test - Genuine silk versus synthetic silk
Mulberry Silk - The Burn Test
The most exciting way to determine whether it is real silk or synthetic silk is by doing the burn test. Silk burns in a very specific way.
Like hair, silk is a natural and protein-based fiber. When it burns, silk fibers burn slowly and irregularly, creating ash and smelling like burnt hair. Fake silk, on the other hand, will melt and burn like plastic.
NOTE - Don't burn your new expensive silk pillowcase or duvet cover! Instead, ask your supplier if they can send you a small sample so you can test the product yourself - or have them film the difference.