Jewelry and Indian Tradition

Jewelry has been part of the Indian civilization since ancient history. Indian Jewelry is the most ethnic form of Jewelry and has an innately oriental aura.The traditional art of India suggest a richness and profusion in the Jewelry worn by both men and women during those times.Earlier, it had a massive quantity to it but the workmanship was coarse. Ornaments made of gold, silver, copper, ivory, pottery and beads have been discovered in civilizations as ancient as the Harappa and Mohanjodaro. One of the first to start Jewelry making were the peoples of the Indus Valley Civilization. One of the most known figurines is perhaps the `dancing girl` (in bronze) wearing a necklace and a series of bangles almost covering one arm. Women wore girdles, earrings and anklets. Ornaments were made of gold, silver, copper, ivory, precious and semi-precious stones, bones and shells etc. Other pieces that women frequently wore were thin bands of gold that would be worn on the forehead, earrings, primitive brooches, chokers and gold rings.

India is a country with timeless traditions and festivals. Numerous celebrations and occasions demand that both men and women be decked in their finest of clothes and Jewelry. In line with past traditions and present customs, genuine and authentic Jewelry is the norm amongst the various Indian castes and communities.

It is a well known fact that Jewelry forms a vital part of the ‘solaha sringar’ or sixteen adornments for the Indian woman. In keeping in line with the past traditions, Jewelry has become a significant element of both festive and regular wear for people. Many women wear Jewelry during religious occasions such as Diwali, Holi, Dhan Teras, and Laxmi Puja, since it is considered extremely auspicious to wear them.

Jewelry has a different meaning in India. Indian Jewelry is not merely an artifact or accessory but also the measure of a person's wealth and prestige in the society.

Besides the traditional forms of Jewelry there is the stylish fashion Jewelry which is an emerging concept in accessories. Womens Jewelry has a wide miscellany based on the metal and embellishments like gemstones etc. Emerald, pearl, corals and other precious stones are generally used in Indian Jewelry for women.The most widely seen womens Jewelry includes those made from pearl. They may be made more attractive with precious stones like rubies, and garnets. This is seen in Kundan Jewelry and authentic Rajasthani Jewelry.