We are all familiar with kundan, polki, jadau and meenakeri art of making bridal jewellery, here are a few more bridal jewellery-making processes across Indian states that you should know about…
Generally made by the Sonari tribe of the region, the designs of the Sonari bridal jewellery of Assam have motifs that depict the flora and fauna of the state. The ornaments involve the use of black, red and green gemstones which can also be found in the cultural clothing of the region.
The Thangka bridal jewellery-making craft of the state reflects the Tibetan and Buddhist influence on the state’s culture. It usually consists of motifs inspired by the Buddhist sect like lotus, conch shells etc.
The word ‘Thewa’ in Rajasthani means ‘setting’, the bridal jewellery-making art form involves fusing 23k gold onto multi-coloured pieces of glass. The motifs used in the jewellery include folk tales of romance and valour from the region with themes of nature and happiness being at the centre.
An art form belonging to the Chola and Pandya dynasties of South India, the motifs used in temple jewellery usually included designs inspired by temple architecture and deities. This type of jewellery does not involve the use of any precious or semi-precious gemstones.
A genre of hill jewellery particularly from the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, the jewellery pieces are comparatively smaller in size and contain intricate filigree work and stone embellishments. The theme of the motifs is usually around the region's history, beliefs and traditions.
The literal translation of the word Chandi Tarakasi in English means ‘Silver filigree’, the silver bars are melted and then pulled into fine strings, the strings are then wired, coiled and braided with fingers and tweezers to bring out designs of flowers, concentric spirals and leaves.
The traditional bridal jewellery-making craft from Manipur involves making jewellery from silk cocoons. The ornaments are made with dyed cocoon, ornamental stones, and fabric art colour and were originally worn by the noble women of Manipur.
The Peshwai form of bridal jewellery was worn by the Peshwin bai (wives of the Peshwa’s, chief ministers) of the Maratha empire. The motifs usually consist of enchanting flowers, graceful leaves, and majestic peacocks and are made using filigree work by skilled artisans known as Ratnaparkhis.