It was around 5,000 years in the ancient past that the art
of jewellery making in India was conceptualised. India has been famous for its
beads, gems and precious stones from times immemorial. It, thus, attracted the
Indian traders and the foreigners alike. For the rulers, jewels were a
statement of power, prosperity and prestige. However, progressing through time
and history, Indian jewellery had evolved as an art. This art has grown popular
in India and has spread to the other parts of the world too. The ancient
jewellery has a historical significance as well since traces back the past
events of the Indian history. The reflection of the brilliant artistry and
creation of the ancient times can still be seen in contemporary jewellery.
With the Mughal invasions, the whole concept and designs of
jewellery changed. During the reign of Akbar, Indian jewellery was structured
with a hybrid of Iranian and Hindu influences. The ornaments were made from
pearls, gems and gold. While Jahangir came to the throne, he introduced rather
softer designs. Later, Shah Jahan was influenced by the designs of the Dutch
jewellery. It is in this period, various jewelleries for arms, neck, turban,
leg, hand and face were introduced. In addition to that the Rajputs also were
seen to contribute their authority in creating jewellery. Rajasthan was the
place for gold jewellery. The anklet of gold worn by men was a proof of
nobility as well as of his eminent position at a Durbar.
Amongst the Indian jewelleries antique Jewellery relates to
the present trend and is in reality considered more of fancy jewellery. Antique
jewellery is actually the modern day jewellery in gold or silver, which goes
through a process of oxidising and is sometimes buried in a pot of clay, to
give it a dull look. Meenakari Jewellery and Kundan styles of jewellery evolved
from the influences of the Mughal dynasty. Meenakari refers to enamelling a
unique combination of gems, enamel pigments Meenakari Jewellery and precious
stones and these are usually used in combination to make jewellery pieces that
can be worn as chokers and necklaces. The motifs used in this art were flowers,
plants, scrolling vines and animal forms, amongst others.
Indian jewellery is stylish and is not restricted only to a
single metal. Manufacturers use all materials, ranging from plastic and glass
to white metal, cheaper alloys and fabric. India has been a major manufacturer
and exporter of jewellery in recent years. Coming into the present era the
Indian heritage trends are still evident within the jewellery designs. Young
girls and women look at the influences from Bollywood and Indian dramas to
ensure that they are aligned with the current trends.
The main thing to remember about Indian jewellery is that it
has a vast heritage of beauty, creativity and talent yet the designs are
sophisticated and elegant and will still be in hundreds of years to come. Lalgate is here to help you our cherished customers and princesses to achieve that Indian look and take you back to a time that was more majestic.
