India has a rich tradition of handmade fashion jewelry, and these pieces often reflect the country’s diverse culture and heritage. Here are some popular types of handmade fashion jewelry used in India:
- Kundan Jewelry: Kundan jewelry is known for its intricate designs and use of semi-precious and precious gemstones. The stones are set in gold or silver settings, and the jewelry is often characterized by its elaborate and detailed craftsmanship.
- Meenakari Jewelry: Meenakari is the art of enameling on metal. Meenakari jewelry is colorful and vibrant, with intricate enamel work on gold or silver. This style of jewelry is particularly popular in Rajasthan.
- Temple Jewelry: Temple jewelry is inspired by the designs found on temple sculptures. It typically features depictions of deities and intricate patterns. This type of jewelry is often used in classical Indian dance performances like Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi.
- Polki and Jadau Jewelry: These are uncut diamond jewelry, often set in gold with intricate designs. Polki is a type of diamond, while Jadau is the technique used to set the stones. These pieces are highly sought after for weddings and special occasions.
- Thewa Jewelry: Thewa is a traditional Rajasthani art of jewelry-making that involves fusing colored glass onto gold. It results in pieces that are both elegant and colorful.
- Filigree Jewelry: Filigree work involves intricate designs created by twisting and curling fine threads of metal, often silver or gold. This type of jewelry is known for its delicate and intricate patterns.
- Terracotta Jewelry: Terracotta jewelry is made from baked clay and is often hand-painted. It’s lightweight and known for its earthy and rustic appeal. This type of jewelry is common in West Bengal and other regions.
- Beaded Jewelry: Beaded jewelry, whether made from glass, wood, or other materials, is a popular choice in India. These pieces are often colorful and can range from traditional to contemporary.
- Dhokra Jewelry: Dhokra is an ancient form of metal casting using the lost-wax technique. Dhokra jewelry is characterized by its rustic, tribal look and is often made in parts of West Bengal and Chhattisgarh.
- Bridal Jewelry: For weddings and special occasions, brides often wear elaborate and heavily embellished jewelry sets, which can include necklaces, earrings, bangles, and more. These pieces are often customized to match the bridal attire.
These are just a few examples of the many types of handmade fashion jewelry used in India. The diversity of cultures and traditions across the country has led to a wide range of jewelry styles, each with its unique charm and significance.