Thursday 27 June 2013


Essential Elements of Bridal Jewellery: 
An Indian bride is considered incomplete without her sixteen adornments or “solah sringar”, and jewellery is one of the most important part of these. Apart from the main jewellery set (consisting of a necklace and matching earrings), listed below are some of the jewellery items that which are important for every bride:

Mangalsutra
The “Mangalsutra” is an auspicious thread which the groom ties around the neck of his wife at the wedding ceremony. This thread symbolizes the love and attachment which will bond the husband and wife together throughout their lives. There are quite a few variations of the “mangalsutra” available today, including a necklace of black and gold beads with a gold or diamond pendant.

Nath
The “Nath” or nose ring could be a plain simple stud, or more elaborate, in the form of a decorative ring, held in place by a long chain tucked behind the ear. For those brides who do not have their nose pierced, there are also beautiful “naths” available which can simply be pressed into place.

Payals (anklets) and bichhia ( toe rings)
“Payals” or anklets are mostly in silver, adorned with traditional designs. Toe rings or “bichhias”, are also worn in pairs and are adorned by most married women. Traditionally, jewellery worn on the feet is not made in real gold, but costume jewellery anklets which look like gold can be found easily.

Chudis and kadas/kangan
It is considered inauspicious for a married woman to let her hands be without bangles. The importance of bangles can be gauged from the fact that different communities have different traditions when it comes to wearing bangles.

Finger rings or ‘angoothi’ and haath panjas
The engagement ring is worn in the ring finger of the left hand by the bride, as it is believed that the vein of this finger leads straight to the heart. A bride often wears rings on her other fingers as well. Very often, rings for all fingers on one hand, are linked together with chains to make what is called the “haath panja” or “haath phool”.

Maang Teeka
In the Hindu tradition, during the wedding, the groom puts vermillion in the bride’s parting, a practice many married women continue throughout their life. The “maang teeka” is thus an essential part of every bride’s trousseau.

Baaju Band or Armlet
The “baaju band” or armlet is worn a little above the elbow and is a fine piece of jewellery which was also worn by men in ancient India.

Kamarband
The “kamarband” is to be worn at the waist. This often consists of delicate chains slipped along the waist, with elaborate patterns made using coins, and beads in precious and semi precious metals. The “kamarband” adds to the grace of the bride, and should be worn with midriff baring apparel such as a sari or lehenga.

Bridal Jewellery on Rent
For those who don’t want to invest huge amounts in buying bridal jewellery, today, you can also explore the option of taking bridal jewellery on rent. This works out to be extremely economically feasible, as you are not likely to wear such heavy jewellery again.