Three requests, and a realistic expectation about what can be settled over video.
Ask for the drape
Flat, it is a rectangle. Draped, you can see the fall and the weight — which is most of what distinguishes one silk from another at the same price.
Ask for the reverse
The back of a weave shows how it was made. Handloom and powerloom differ there more visibly than on the face, and most sellers never turn it over unless asked.
Ask for measurements
Length, width, and whether a blouse piece is included and how long. "Standard" is not a measurement and sarees vary.
What to look at
The border and pallu — where the work and the value are.
Old fold lines, on vintage pieces. Silk weakens along a fold kept for decades, and a weak fold can tear in wear.
Stains, which photograph away under bright light. Ask for a shot under normal light.
On zari
The honest position: you cannot establish what zari is made of over a video call. The tests are physical.
So treat a zari claim as a claim. Ask what the seller knows and how, buy accordingly, and remember that the protection covers "not as described" for seven days from delivery.
Questions people ask
What is the difference between handloom and powerloom?
How it was woven. Handloom has small irregularities; powerloom is uniform. It affects price significantly.
Can I return a saree that does not suit me?
That is a change of mind and depends on the item. Not as described is always covered.
Is vintage the same as antique?
No. Vintage means old enough to be a style.
Should I worry about a crease?
A fresh crease, no. A permanent fold line on old silk, yes — ask about it.
More: condition words.