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:
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.
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ReplyDeleteIndian bridal jewellery gives very classic look. Most of the brides wear diamond necklaces and matching pieces of earrings. It is very mostly wear with matching dress and also made of precious stone.
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