Traditionally Indian Chic Kundan Jewelry
One of the oldest forms of jewelry created and worn in India, Kundan is still popular for its discerning Mughal influence and intricate designs. The origin of Kundan jewelry can be traced back to the majestic courts of the Mughal empire, where the royal women in Rajasthan and Gujarat would wear elaborate Kundankari necklaces, armlets, waist bands, earrings, forehead teekas, finger rings, nose rings and many other tradition pieces of jewels. Although they are traditional designs of jewelry, kundan jewelry sets are fast gaining recognition and popularity among international jewelry designers and fashionistas.
Kundan work is the traditional and oldest method of gem setting, where the gold foil is inserted between the stones and its mount. The basic lacquer structure of the jewelry is embedded with gemstones, gold foil setting and finished with highly refined gold to cover the lacquer framework. Craftsmen are well trained in various processes involved in creating grand Indian jewelry designs.
Kundan work is often combined with the beautifully designed enamel paintings, known as Meenakari work, which adorns the back surface of the pieces in beautiful designs. In these jewelry pieces, meenakari work beautifies the back side while kundan stone settings add grace on the front, making it even more remarkable. Pacchi work is another technique which is incorporated in kundan jewelry. Tastefully designed rings and earrings in pacchi work accompanied with kundan make these pieces stunning.
Adorned with crystals and semi-precious stones, Indian kundan jewelry sets are passed on as heirlooms, which are passed from one generation to other. Some of the semi precious and precious stones used with kundan jewelry are agates, topaz, carnelians, tourmalines, jade, emerald, sapphire, amethysts, and rhinestones.
Mostly worn by the Rajputs, Indian kundan jewelry sets were earlier considered important for all auspicious occasions. But with changing time and trends, they are regarded as fashion ornaments. One of the most sought after Indian designs, Kundan jewelry is also sported by Hollywood and Bollywood celebrities for grand occasions. Whether it’s a celebrity wedding or a red carpet, this scintillating piece of jewelry is gradually making its way to the international fashion runways. Rhinestones and enamel work retain the ethnic feel while crystals and colorful bead embellishments add a contemporary twist. Movies like Devdas and Jodha Akhbar have redefined the kundan story. Aishwarya Rai decked in a jadau kundan jewelry set recreated the magic of historical art with modern fusion. Apart from celebrities, kundan jewelry sets are also preferred by Indian brides to enhance their traditional elegance.
The pink city of Jaipur in Rajasthan offers a wide range of Indian kundan jewelry. Careful settings of gold foil, intricately cut gemstones and multicolor crystal makes this one of the most celebrated varieties of jewelry available today. The sheer variety available in Indian jewelry designs also makes it the perfect choice for the bride-to-be to wear for her wedding. Perfectly fusing contemporary and traditional designs, kundan jewels are becoming desirable pieces. So, for your next festive occasion, go for traditional kundan jewelry, and be part of the magnificence that Kundan jewels offer.