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.