From Kashmir to Kerala: Indian Earrings That Carry Culture in Every Curve

Jewellery in India has always been an integral part of its rich culture and traditions. A reflection of the country’s identity, craftsmanship and artistry, Indian jewellery transcends mere adornments and often translates to a powerful symbol of history and heritage. It dates back thousands of years, with intricate designs from the ancient Indus Valley Civilisation, and among its many forms, Indian earrings hold a special place. Deeply rooted in ancient traditions like Karnavedha or piercing to ensure health, energy balance, and mental well-being, they often become the indicators of wealth, social status, and even femininity. 

And the most interesting part about earrings in India? There is one for every state. From the delicate jhumkas that sway with every step in the South to the bold silver hoops of the desert tribes in the West, earrings in India are more than just ornaments; they are stories worn on the body. Each state, each community, carries its own legacy through intricate designs, materials, and meanings passed down for generations. And these different styles and varieties of earrings indicate auspiciousness, protection against evil, and traditional heritage. However, what is interesting to note is how new age brands and designers now believe in reinterpreting these earrings to match contemporary taste, keeping their traditional essence alive.

Dehjhoor earrings, Kashmir

What looks like a common earring, Dehjoor or Deji-hor earrings have come a long way since their origin. A part of Indian history and tradition, this earring belongs to the state that holds utmost value to the nation: Kashmir and is worn commonly by Kashmiri Pandit women. The term Dij is often interpreted as a representation of “dvija” which makes the female counterpart of a yajnopavita in the Brahmin community.

What makes the Dejhoor especially interesting today is how it’s no longer limited to tradition and has found its way into modern wardrobes. New-age jewellery labels like Zariin, Jhaanjhariya, Parishri Jewellery, House of Tuhina, Alankriti Jewellery India and AAMARA are reimagining it with lighter chains, gemstones and even detachable styles that feel more wearable, while brands like Preyasi offer more affordable festive versions. You’ll find Dejhoor-inspired earrings starting from a few hundred rupees, going up to ₹3,000–₹6,000 for designer pieces, and even ₹15,000+ for handcrafted silver or fine jewellery. Styling-wise, brides can wear it with a sleek bun or braid so the chains really stand out—especially with a pheran or even a minimal lehenga—while bridesmaids can have more fun with lighter, fusion versions paired with sarees, shararas or Indo-western looks, letting the earrings do all the talking.

Bugadi, Maharashtra/ Karnataka

A traditional earring that instantly catches the attention, Bugadi is rooted in the Maharashtrian and South Indian traditions, where it is also called Koppu. Worn along the upper curve of the ear, this helix ornament dates back to royal courts and has its foundations in classical dance traditions like Bharatnatyam. In ancient times, it was often worn by women as a sign of status and cultural pride, especially during special occasions like weddings and festivals. These pieces are traditionally crafted in gold and are often detailed with pearls, rubies or kundan work. Bugadis were also believed to have Ayurvedic significance for women, as ear piercings along the helix were often connected to pressure points that result in better health and well-being.

Today, Bugadis are having a bit of a comeback, especially with the whole ear-stacking trend. Brands like Unniyarcha, Divas Mantra, Amama Jewels, Melo Studio, Eterno India, House of Aadyaa  are reworking them into clip-ons, oxidised finishes, and more minimal designs that don’t require an actual helix piercing. You can shop them online or in local markets, with prices starting around ₹300 for oxidised styles and going up to ₹10,000+ for gold versions. Brides can pair a classic pearl Bugadi with a Paithani saree and a sleek bun, while bridesmaids can mix and match—stacking it with studs or hoops for a more relaxed, modern vibe.

Kanpasha earrings, West Bengal

West Bengal’s Kanpasha earrings are now having a moment. They are bold and dramatic in the best way possible. Designed to almost cover the ear, the name of this jewellery piece itself comes from ‘Kaan’, meaning ‘ear’ and ‘pasha’, which means ‘to cover’, and traditionally these earrings were crafted to sit flush against the ear like a blooming flower. Typically worn by Bengali brides, Kanpasha is usually designed in gold using techniques like epoussé and intricate filigree and often features floral or sunburst motifs. They’re not just jewellery but are believed to be a symbol of prosperity, bridal beauty, and the grandeur associated with Bengali weddings, often paired with other heirloom pieces passed down through generations.

Modern labels like Senco Gold & Diamonds, Tribe Amrapali, MRJewels, Ayush Kejriwal and Abhilasha Pret Jewellery are giving Kanpasha a lighter, more wearable twist with gold plating, mixed materials, and scaled-down versions. You’ll find them starting from ₹1,000 for fashion jewellery and going upwards of ₹20,000 for fine gold pieces. For brides, Kanpasha looks stunning with a red Banarasi saree and a neat bun, while bridesmaids can go for smaller versions with soft waves or tied-back hair so the earrings really stand out.

Dokra jhumka, Chhattisgarh

Dokra jhumkas, with their raw charm, speak volumes about the wearer's character. Crafted using the age-old lost-wax casting method, a technique that stretches back more than four millennia to the Indus Valley Civilisation, Dokra jewellery is a true reflection of the tribal communities in central India, particularly in Chhattisgarh. Each piece is especially handcrafted, which means that no two pieces are the same. These earrings, traditionally made in brass, often feature motifs inspired by nature, animals, and everyday tribal life, giving them a raw, earthy charm that feels rather authentic.

In contemporary times, brands like Okhai and iTokri are making Dokra jewellery more accessible for the people of India. Whose Prices usually start from ₹500 and go up to ₹5,000, it largely depends on the detailing of the jewellery piece. Brides who want something a little different can pair Dokra jhumkas with handloom sarees for a grounded, earthy vibe, while bridesmaids can style them with cotton dresses or Indo-western looks for that relaxed, boho feel.

Murki earrings, Rajasthan

If there is one traditional earring that proves that sometimes less really is more, it is the Murki earring from Rajasthan. These small, circular hoops are a staple across the state of Rajasthan and have been worn by women for generations as part of their everyday jewellery. These pieces were traditionally crafted in gold or silver and were designed to be lightweight, durable and easy to wear so that women did not have to take them off. 

However, that is not all. What is even more interesting is that in several communities, Murkis were worn not just by women but both men and women, making them one of the more gender-neutral jewellery pieces in Indian traditions. It is the simplicity of this jewellery piece that makes it rather charming.

Today, brands like Manner India, Smith Jewels, and Chakradhari are bringing Murkis back as everyday essentials. You’ll find them starting from ₹300 for silver or plated styles and going up to ₹15,000+ for gold versions. Bridesmaids can easily wear them for pre-wedding functions or mehendi looks, while brides can use them as subtle second earrings paired with heavier pieces.

Pambadam earring, Tamil Nadu/ Kerala

Bold, sculptural and deeply rooted in a tradition that is unique itself, Pambada is worn in the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. These earrings were originally designed for stretched earlobes, a practice that was once considered a sign of beauty, maturity, and even social identity. Traditionally crafted by combining gold spheres and geometric shapes, these earrings are eye-catching in the best and instantly recognisable for their volume and structure. The process of stretching the earlobes, after wearing these earrings, would happen gradually over time. Therefore, this process makes these earrings not just accessories but markers of life stages and cultural belonging.

Today, designers like Amrapali Jewels, Studio Metallurgy and Misho Designs are reimagining Pambadam into bold statement pieces that don’t require stretched ears. Prices can range from ₹1,500 to ₹20,000+ depending on the material. Brides can lean into the drama with these for a strong South Indian look, while bridesmaids can pick more toned-down geometric versions and pair them with sleek hair and minimal outfits.

Junbiri earrings, Assam

Inspired by the crescent moon, Junbiri earrings are native to Assam. Derived from the word ‘jun’, meaning moon, these earrings get their soft, curved shape from the crescent moon itself. Traditionally crafted in gold, these earrings are integral to Assamese jewellery and are often worn during special occasions like weddings and festivals like Bihu. While the designs often vary, they are often noted to feature red stones or meenakari work mirroring local aesthetics and nature-inspired motifs. Elegant but not overpowering, these earrings have remained a staple in the Assamese culture for generations

Brands like Zangfai, Parashabora, Koina, and CaratLane and regional jewellers are now offering both fine and imitation versions. Prices start from around ₹1,000 and can go upwards of ₹25,000 for gold pieces. Brides can pair Junbiri with a mekhela chador for a traditional look, while bridesmaids can style smaller versions with sarees or even fusion outfits for something more understated.