Exploring Regional Variations in Indian Jewelry Making

India is a land of rich cultural diversity and heritage, and its jewelry-making traditions reflect its colorful history and the influence of different cultures. Jewelry-making is an integral part of Indian culture, and each region has its unique style and technique. Rajasthan, in particular, is known for its exquisite jewelry-making traditions, with Jaipur being a hub for some of the most famous jewelry styles.

Kundan Jewelry

Kundan jewelry is one of India's most popular jewelry styles, especially in Rajasthan. Kundan jewelry originated in the Mughal era and was a favorite among the royals. The word 'Kundan' means refined gold, and this jewelry style involves setting stones in a frame of pure 24K gold. The process involves heating the gold and placing glass pieces that look like gemstones in a setting made of lac, a natural resin. Kundan jewelry is considered precious jewelry and is renowned for its intricate and detailed workmanship by skilled artisans with elaborate layers upon layers of stone and glass with intricate joint work. The back side of each piece is enameled, which only adds to the artistry of each design.

Meena Jewelry

Meena jewelry is another traditional style from Rajasthan that has been popular since ancient times. It uses enamel and decorates the jewlery with intricate designs and color. It is commonly combined with Kundan style. Polki’s (uncut diamonds) are used along with precious and semi-pricous stones to create intricate designs and patterns. Meena jewelry is known for its vibrant colors and detailed designs and is famous for its use in bridal jewelry. The term 'Meena' means 'enamel' in the Rajasthani language and reflects the importance of this jewelry style in the region.

Thewa Jewelry

Thewa jewelry is another traditional jewelry style that originates in Rajasthan. Thewa jewelry is a unique fusion of embossing intricately worked-out sheets of gold on molten glass without glue. Skilled artisans use this secret heating and cooling technique to fuse the gold into the glass surface, creating intricate designs and patterns and making stunning jewelry pieces. Thewa jewelry is known for its intricate workmanship and is often used for ceremonial purposes.

Jadau Jewelry

Jadau jewelry is very similar to Kundan and another traditional style from Rajasthan that has been popular since ancient times. Jadau jewelry involves uncut diamonds, known as polki, and other precious stones set in a gold frame. The process involves heating the gold and placing the stones in a setting made of lac, a natural resin. Jadau jewelry is known for its intricate workmanship. Each piece is a unique creation, with skilled artisans using a variety of gemstones and precious metals to create stunning jewelry pieces. Setting just four to five stones can take a whole day, making this one of the most expensive forms of jewelry.

Jaipur, the hub of jewelry-making in Rajasthan, is known for its intricate designs and skilled artisans. Jaipur's jewelry-making tradition dates back to the 18th century when Maharaja Jai Singh II founded the city. The city became a hub for jewelry-making, with skilled artisans using the latest techniques and designs to create stunning jewelry pieces. Jaipur's jewelry-making industry has continued to thrive, with the city being renowned for its Kundan and Jadau jewelry.

India's jewelry-making traditions reflect its rich cultural heritage and the influence of different cultures. Local culture and history have influenced these jewelry styles, with each region's unique style and technique. The jewelry-making industry in Jaipur has continued to thrive, with skilled artisans creating stunning jewelry that is a testament to India's rich cultural heritage.

Our jewelry comes from Jaipur. Visit our shop online or The Shop in Corsicana and see the Kundan, Jadau, and Meena pieces. They are lovely pieces of artwork to add to your collection.