Beauty of Traditional Indian Jewellery
Traditional Indian jewellery is predominantly about adornment of women; although we find a few varieties for men too. However, this article is all about the traditional Indian jewellery used by women. It is an impeccable blend of craftsmanship and artistry, history and culture. It reflects rich and glorious heritage of India, as it holds deep cultural significance. However, it is not only about adornment but it is a powerful manifestation of social status, nobility and glory.
Traditional Indian jewellery is astonishingly diverse. It reflects distinct regional identity and cultural attributes. It is associated with traditions, customs and religious beliefs. We find some religious significance in the intricately designed South Indian Jewellery. It is also called as temple jewellery. Whereas the jewellery varieties of Rajasthan and Gujarat represent opulence and majestic glory.
Let’s briefly understand the beauty and importance of some prominent varieties of Traditional Indian jewellery.
- Maang Tikka: This is particularly worn during the weddings or on festive occasions. It is a delicate piece worn at the centre of the forehead, typically at the hair parting.
- Nose Ring / Nath: A nose ring is normally used by the women in North India. It also comes with a chain connected to the ear. However, the Nath is a typically Marathi or Maharashtrian piece of jewellery. It is large ornate ring embedded with pearls and is an integral part of bridal ensemble.
- Bangles: The bangles are integral part of the Indian bride’s trousseau. They hold profound cultural significance for the suvasini (married woman whose husband is alive).
- Jhumkas: Jhumkas are beautifully designed dangling bell-shaped earrings and they can be worn on any traditional Indian attire.
- Necklaces: Choker: This is a typical necklace with close-fitting necklace. It comes with intricate designs and gemstones embedded on it.
Raani Haar: Raani Haar or Queen’s necklace is delicately designed long necklace. It is popularly worn by the brides. It is made with large stones or pearls.
- Payal: Payal or anklet is worn to adorn the ankles by the brides they are available in simple silver pieces or ornate ones with bells.
- Bichuas: This is a type of toe-ring, which comes in silver. The Bichuas are normally worn on the second toe. In different parts of India, they are an integral part of traditional marriage rituals.
- Chandbali Earrings: These cresent-shaped earrings represent the beautiful crescent moon. They are normally worn on special occasions like weddings or important festivals.
- Mangalsutra: The most important and adorable piece of jewellery for the Indian women is Mangalsutra. It is necessarily the necklace but it holds deep cultural and religious significance for the Hindu married women across India. It is always worn by the married women and never taken off so long as their life partner is alive, as it is considered to be the symbol of soubhagya. It is a sign of respect, commitment and solidarity towards their life-partner. The Mangalsutra comes with different lengths, bead combinations and pendants. In the modern times it has evolved in styles but its cultural and religious significance has still remained high.
The important features of this ornament is a combination of black and gold beads. The black beads are strung to ward off the evil eye or negative energies. The gold beads on the other hand symbolize prosperity, beauty and richness.
At the center of the Mangalsutra, the pendant is used which comes in attractive designs. As the time has changed, the pendants have evolved in styles. They are made of gold, diamonds or other precious stones.
