Indian jewellery is as old as Indian Civilization. The art of adornment goes back to primitive people who used to decorate themselves with jewels that made of flowers, carved wood, beads, shells, bones, stones etc. Nowadays the base material has change from brass, copper to silver, gold and semi-precious stones to precious one. The floral motifs are sign of rich tribal heritage and even today they are seen in Indian jewellery designs. In India gems and jewellery plays a significant role in women’s closet regardless of patterns.Jewellery in ancient times was not only an adornment, but also each stone was endowed with a spiritual quality and used as a protection against wicked forces. The navarathna or nine gems are worn in a particular order for same reason even today.
India is a country that boats of a huge several indigenous crafts. Its craftsmanship is a class apart and that is why the whole world rushes here in search of handmade treasures. Here are few lists peep at-
Beads: Bead is an ancient craft and also popular among prehistoric cultures. Glass and seed beads, semi-precious beads, pearls…. etc are woven one after the other to make pretty creation. Single layer or multilayer, these beads will go with all kind of ensemble no matter whether it’s western or ethnic wear dress.
Meenakari Art: Meenakari is essentially enamelling or decorating the metallic surface of jewellery with colours like red, green, blue, white and other rich colours. Introduced in Mughal period, this art is established in Jaipur and later spread to lucknow, Punjab and other centres. The colour portions are engraved for shallow depressions and the enamel dust of the required colour is then poured into those engravings and heated at high temperature. Basically it needs a high grade of skills and techniques.
Kundan: Traditional kundan jewellery is meant to rock ethnic look. This is originated in royal court of Rajasthan and Gujarat. These pieces have stones encrusted on one side and colourful and intricate craftsmanship on the reverse. The hollow jewellery pieces that are joined to make the kundan jewellery are bored with holes where precious stones and gems are inserted. Added to it, meenakari and raswara will also lend royal touch to these jewellery sets. These jewels are typically worn in traditional parties to grab that Desi Diva pageant.
Carving: Carved or engraved jewels are usually finer and more detailed than cast patterns. Engraved Jewels are combination of both Meenakari & kundan. Where the surface of the jewellery is engraved in different cuts and patterns, enamelled and embedded with stones, polki and beads to give a rich look. It’s also known as jadau work in India.
Now-a-days many fashion portals are offering good deals for this kind of jewellery. Opt for online shopping to make great buy with wonderful offers. A wide variety of patterns, designs and craftsmanship on offer makes it a drool-worthy.
