Indian craftsmanship is one of a kind. It is world famous because of its unique designs and techniques It takes artisans years to understand how to do intricate detailing. It is a generations’ old art. Indian women wear jewellery as a form of pride. It is a result of years of practice. This type of creativity is often absent in mass produced things.
Artificial jewellery is often much lighter. Unique jewellery can NEVER be copied. The slight variation in every design is a mark of originality. Handmade pieces may have a stamp of the maker or some sort of signatory engraving.
Secondly, different states of India sell a diversity of jewellery. For example, ‘jadau’, ‘kundan’ and ‘polki’ jewellery is from Rajasthan. If people understand the origin of the jewellery, understanding its authenticity would be much easier. Jadau work has a variety of gemstones set on it. This is done with gold foil which requires a great amount of precision. West Bengal flaunts tribal jewellery with gold craftsmanship which have wire craft and bead work. The shell, copper and thread are a proof of its authenticity and sustainability.
Thirdly, if a person wishes to buy authentic, traditional jewellery, they must learn cultural symbolism. For example, there are certain motifs like a lotus and a peacock. In the Mughal era, the navratna or nine gem pieces were said to have cosmic forces and magical powers. They were specifically used as wedding ornaments. In South India, sculpted gold ornaments and temple ornaments are well known.
Filigree work was started in West Bengal. It is one of the oldest forms of making jewellery. According to Runway India, one must choose sellers with clear reviews and a good artisan background. There are many platforms such as Tanishq or Kalyan Jewellers which sell original works. They sell all kinds of certified pieces.
Authentic handmade jewellery is sold by other good brands such as Amrapali, Moha, Jaipur Jewels or Tanishq Rivaah. Other than longevity, people often focus on aesthetics which is why they do not get original jewellery. The main focus must be on the craftsmanship, all the settings, joints, clasps and the polish for sturdiness should be thoroughly checked. If handmade jewellery is cleaned properly, then it can be preserved for decades.
People should understand that authentic jewellery is a very good investment. The price of gold continues to rise. If anyone ever faces any kind of financial problem, they can use authentic jewellery to get money. Therefore, one must buy authentic jewellery to save for a rainy day. Artificial jewellery can NEVER be an investment. Quality of the jewellery should be the number one priority.
Hallmarks, artisan marks and certifications prove that it is real. One must look up the correct information as well, like – anti tarnish pouches are necessary for silver jewellery. If the weight of the piece is consistent and the finishing is done evenly, it must have been authentic. The gemstones should have been placed securely by hand. They are often accompanied by tight prongs and quality polish. Real jewelry is made with labor intensive techniques. The weight in real jewellery is much heavier. There is a lot of difference between the weight of synthetic rubies and real rubies. Some people also use authentic jewellery as a way to ward off evil, get financial gains or for getting some good luck in marriage.
Jewellery used for Marriage
A gem that was believed to be of almost one lakh rupees turned out to be a postage stamp value.
That is why understanding cultural context and symbolism becomes compulsory. Overall, Indian traditional jewellery will always be a mark of Indian creativity, tradition as well as heritage.
By:Shreeja Mukherjee