As Jewellery Shopping Guide editors, we write about products we enjoy that we think you might too. Sometimes this involves affiliate links which generate revenue without cost to you directly. Jewelry has long been part of Indian culture and worn on virtually every special occasion.

Indian jewellery styles are known for being intricate, colorful and eye-catching – perfect for making an impressionable statement about who they are! Let’s explore different types of Indian jewellery and find something perfect to wear yourself or give as gifts – no matter your race! If that doesn’t apply to you – no problem; we have you covered too!

History Of Indian Jewellery

We would be remiss in not briefly touching upon the rich history of Indian jewellery, dating back over five millennia to Indus Valley civilization where early designs used less sophisticated techniques than those seen today.

India has since developed many unique styles and techniques that make its jewelry truly distinctive and outstanding. Due to the vast geography of the nation, various groups created styles appropriate to their region of residence.

Indian women use jewelry not just to enhance their beauty but also because it holds great cultural and traditional significance.

Significance of Jewellery in Indian Culture

Indian culture values jewellery deeply. Not only does it make a fashion statement, but its significance goes deeper still: spiritual and cultural beliefs often shape jewelry purchases for ceremonies or rituals – weddings being an excellent example.

Indian Jewellery plays a vital role in Hindu wedding ceremonies, symbolizing both families coming together. Each piece holds special meaning for Hindu culture. A bride-to-be’s ensemble would not be complete without jewelry pieces that symbolize her cultural background, such as earrings, nose rings, necklaces, waist belts, armlet or armbands, rings, hand harnesses, anklets and toe rings.

These essential pieces of jewellery not only add to a bride’s look but also symbolize different intentions for this most special event in their lives, bringing added blessings as they begin their lives together.

Indian weddings are revered and revered ceremonies around the globe, revered for their vibrant decorations and beautiful ceremonies. Hindu weddings stand out among all events as one of the most anticipated and anticipated events within any community, boasting vibrant colors, exquisite accessories and grand celebrations that make these ceremonies one of the most exciting events ever seen!

Weddings aren’t the only occasions where jewellery plays an integral part. Some communities also view jewelry as part of their religious practice. Sikh men wear kadas, karas or kangans to show respect for their faith and be reminded to fulfill their duties to the best of their abilities here on Earth. Tilaks worn on foreheads symbolize belongingness while providing a deeper connection to higher beings.

Some jewellery can help protect against evil spirits, attract good luck, and promote health by being made from precious metals with intricate designs. Gemstones such as the Navratna are believed to have magical properties linked with both astrology and mythology that help keep evil away.

Metals and Stones Used in Indian Jewellery

While materials used in Indian jewelry vary depending on its style and purpose, the following are among the most frequently chosen ones:

• Yellow Gold: Yellow gold holds significant value in India and is widely viewed as an asset. Gold jewelry has become extremely popular there because it represents Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth and prosperity. Fun fact – in India anklets made from this material would be seen as placing god at your feet!
• Gemstones: Gemstones are at the core of Indian jewelry designs, adding intricate patterns and vibrant hues that set designs apart. Popular gemstones for use in Indian jewelry designs include turquoise, ruby, sapphire, topaz, agate jade amethyst. All of these gemstones not only add color but also value.Gemstones are chosen for their mystical healing powers and believed to bring wealth, prosperity, good health, and happiness.
• Diamonds: Diamonds are highly sought-after when creating Polki, as their increased value and affordability make the pieces heirloom quality pieces.
• Pearls: In India, pearls are not simply worn on their own; rather they’re often combined with gemstones and metals to form intricate jewelry pieces that highlight both opacity of pearls combined with sparkle and color of gemstones for stylish yet modern pieces of wearable art.

Different Types of Indian Jewelry You Must Have

With so many kinds of Indian jewelry to choose from, this article cannot possibly cover everything here. Here we outline only some of the more prominent varieties.

1. Kundan Jewellery

Kundan jewellery is one of the most beloved forms of Indian jewellery, particularly popular in Rajasthan. Kundan refers to gemstone jewelry with highly refined gold combined with striking gemstones to form intricate and colorful pieces – the name itself means pure gold!

Kundan jewelry can be defined by its layers of stones and metals assembled to form intricate designs. Each stone is mounted within its own metal foil to accentuate its form while distinguishing it from other stones within the design.

This Jewellery often incorporates Meenakari enameling techniques on its backside to make the piece reversible and therefore more versatile.

Kundan jewelry is often associated with brides, wedding guests and any formal function. Contemporary Indian women often pair kundan with contemporary clothing for an eye-catching and contemporary look.

2. Meenakari Jewellery

Meenakari enameling can be found in many different types of Indian jewelry. As mentioned above, even Kundan jewelry often incorporates meenakari enameling techniques.

Meenakari jewellery’s beauty lies in its vibrant hues and smooth, polished surface; perfect for creating unique modern pieces as well as traditional Indian designs.

This jewelry might initially seem to be composed entirely of colorful gemstones; upon closer examination, however, you’ll discover its intricate enamel art work and pearls or diamonds among others paired with it.

4. Jhoomar

Jhoomars are an iconic piece of Indian jewellery worn on the left side of the head. Dating back to Mughals rule and adopted by brides in North India for use during wedding ceremonies. Islamic influence can be found here and it makes a beautiful addition to any bride’s ensemble; traditionally featuring an inverted crescent moon shape with semicircular designs. More modern designs feature stone settings or other materials.

3. Maang Tikka

The maang tikka is an exquisite piece of traditional Indian jewelry worn on the head. Consisting of a metallic chain connected to an ornamented pendant at its end, this headpiece can make an eye-catching statement at any wedding event. Adorned with different embellishments such as stones or ornate designs it serves as the crowning glory for brides-to-be’s ensembles.

Maang tikkas stand out as an eye-catching accessory on wedding days thanks to their distinctive placement: worn along the hairline and often at midparting of hair, maang tikka can accentuate facial features with precious stones and metals adorned with chains to complete this headpiece.

Similar to its maang tikka counterpart, the jhoomar is an elegant headpiece perfect for formal events. Worn on either side of the head and attached directly to her hairline at her temple area.

5. Balis

As we explore more deeply the topic of traditional Indian jewelry, it’s essential to recognize the existence of balis or chandbalis earrings. Balis feature simple ring-shaped designs while more complex ones use crescent moons from Mughal times for decoration. Both types remain an iconic component of Indian jewellery today with modern interpretations being adopted to suit all ages.

Similar to jewelry designs, balis or chandbalis are often created using precious metals and intricate designs, using more minimal jewels for smaller versions compared to heavier and bigger chandbalis designs. No matter your desired aesthetic, there is certain to be an ideal bali design available that suits you!

6. Jhumkas

Jhumkas are an integral component of traditional Indian jewelry and make an eye-catching centerpiece if you are creating an eye-catching ensemble with them. Jhumkas make fantastic accent pieces due to their classic bell-shaped silhouette; modern adaptations make this traditional Indian piece an excellent option for special events as well.

Jhumkas are earrings characterized by their bell shape, which made them popular among traditional temple dancers. Crafted of precious metals adorned with gemstones or jewels for extra elegance and an impressive heritage. Boasting eye-catching embellishments that draw the eye and an unmistakable presence. Brides looking to make an impression should choose bold jhumkas featuring vibrant stones for maximum impact on their wedding day.

7. Nath or Nose Ring 

For Indian brides, the nath (nose ring) is an indispensable element of their wedding ensemble. In fact, many cultures practice using nose rings as part of both casual and formal wear; it combines style and tradition beautifully.

Typically, there are two categories of nose rings: nose pins are distinguished by their minimal design (some even serving as simple studs), while a larger style called the “Nose Ring” can be connected via long chains to other jewelry items for use together.

8. Mangalsutra

 The mangalsutra is one of the key elements in a bride’s wedding ensemble and not just as an ornament but as something with profound cultural significance.

The mangalsutra is known as the sacred thread that unites wife and husband during marriage. This important symbol represents their union and should therefore be an essential component of bride’s wedding attire; its importance being further acknowledged during ceremonies by groom tying it around bride’s neck during ceremony–an ancient and revered custom in Hindu culture.

9. Kamarbandhs or Waist Belts

Used by many communities during traditional ceremonies and rituals, kamarbandhs (waist belts) are decorative ornaments used as part of traditional festivities and rituals. Generally heavy ornamental belts with intricate designs and patterns, kamarbandhs draw attention to the waistline by accentuating natural curves of the wearer; further enhancing sensuality and voluptuousness of the female figure.

Kamarbandhs are traditionally worn around the waist with traditional Indian outfits such as the saree to keep it secure, tightened around it to accentuate hips of the wearer and feature intricate designs with precious stones or other embellishments that bring visual interest and draw attention to that area.

10. Payals

Payals or anklets are traditionally worn by married Hindu women around their ankles as an indication of marriage and good luck. Most often made out of silver as it is considered impure to wear gold jewelry on one’s feet as this represents Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth in Hindu belief; therefore traditional payals typically feature silver.

Payals, traditional jewelry adorned with gemstones, pearls, beads, small stones of different colors and bells, are often given as wedding presents to newlywed women and have become part of any bride’s ensemble. But payals have also become a fashionable trend among unmarried girls; many wear one proudly and bravely as an expression of their pride and courage – sometimes they even receive them before learning how to walk! Payals may even be gifted as early as before they learn how to walk!