Introduction
In India, handmade jewellery dates back around 5000 years to the Indus Valley civilization. Bracelets, anklets, chains, and earrings were most of the handcrafted jewellery done at that point of time. All the Maharanis and Maharajas used to wear the rich and handcrafted jewellery that was specially made for them. The precious gemstones also started emerging and occupying that space.
Handcrafted Jewellery
Indian jewellery has a history behind every piece crafted at that point in time. The skill of creating the handmade jewellery was mostly inspired by religious and spiritual beliefs. In the modern era, every type of gold is being crafted by machines. Handcrafted jewellery is more expensive than normal machine-made jewellery because it has a wide history. Let’s take a look at some Indian jewellery worn today:
1.Jadau
Jadau is one of the oldest forms of jewellery. It was introduced by the Mughals in their era, when the artists were specifically from Rajasthan and Gujarat. The oldest versions consisted of pearls and emeralds hung together. In earlier days, the jadau was only worn by married women. In the modern era, Jadau is made with machines and technology, but handmade Jadau has more value in the market.
2.Meenakari
One of the famous states where Meenakari is popular is Rajasthan and Gujarat. Meenakari is categorised into two styles: “Ek Rang Khula style,” where the entire jewellery is crafted with one colour; and “Pachrangi Meena” style, where all five colours like blue,red,green, white, and ink blue are used to make it. Now they are worn by rajasthani brides
3. Chandbali and Jhumkas
Chandbali originated in Hyderabad in the Mughal era and was considered an auspicious piece of jewellery by them. Long chand balis, small chand balis, and oversized chand balis are available in the market. The unpolished chandbalis are really overpriced. Jhumkas are the most popular accessory, loved by every woman, and available in various antique designs. Golden Jhumaks are worn everywhere in wedding ceremonies. All the women consider it very precious and auspicious to wear jhumkas, as they are crafted with precious metals and stones.
4.Kamar bandh
In English, it’s called waistband,” where most of the kamar bandhs are used in weddings, and it is typically crafted with only gold in that era. Nowadays, kamarbandh is also available in diamonds, silver, and gold with an antique coating going back to the roots. There were scientific reasons why women used to wear waistbands too; it was because of weight loss, beauty, etc. In the early days, both men and women used to wear waistbands as a sign of grace and beauty.
FAQ
1.Are handcrafted pieces of jewellery expensive?
Yes, handcrafted jewellery is generally expensive, as it takes a lot of time to craft it.
2. What are the three types of handmade jewellery?
Jute, clay, and terracotta jewellery
3. Can handcrafted jewellery be customised?
Yes, handcrafted jewellery can be customised according to your preferences.