Most people don’t know there are a few grades of saffron and the prices vary drastically! In India we have: Mongra (or Mogra) Saffron: This is the highest grade of Indian saffron, known for its dark red stigmas, intense aroma, and strong coloring properties. It contains only the red tips of the stigma and is considered the purest and most potent form of Indian saffron. Mongra saffron is especially popular in Kashmir, the one seen here! This is the saffron we use to make the brightening saffron serum and its best used for beauty as the percentage of brightening properties is at its highest. Lacha Saffron: This grade includes the whole stigma with the red tips and a small portion of the yellow style. While it has a slightly lower coloring power compared to Mongra, Lacha saffron is what you find in a grocery store and is used for cooking. Zarda Saffron: This is a lower grade of saffron, with more of the yellow style and less of the red stigma. Zarda saffron is less potent in color and aroma and is typically used for purposes where high quality is not as crucial, such as large-scale food preparations or flavoring for lower-cost products. The yellow stigmas are often ground and used for medicinal purposes. No saffron ever does to waste!