Ethnic Elegance: Celebrating Cultural Diversity in Silver Jewelry

Did you know that silver jewelry accounts for as much as 34% of the total demand for silver in India? Silver jewelry in India is crafted in several ways nationwide. Often handed down as heirloom jewelry, a present from a loved one, or one of several ways of endearment.  

Each geographical location in India has its way of crafting and adorning silver jewelry, and we'll look at a few in this blog. Some of the most prominent ones are:    

Jadau Jewelry from Rajasthan and Gujarat   

A fine art borne of the Gujarat and Rajasthan courts in Medieval times, this technique involves the use of uncut diamonds and other precious gemstones. Skilled artisans embed precious and semi-valuable stones into silver settings, like diamonds, rubies, and emeralds.  

TheMahisi Jadau Silver Necklace by Paksha

The Rasika and Vihara Collections at Paksha are the most alluring when it comes to silver Jadau jewelry. The art of Kundan jewelry, which involves embedding uncut gemstones in lac and wrapping them in silver, was loved by royalty and the elite. 

The Meenakari technique is a traditional form of Indian enameling behind Kundan and Jadau jewelry dating back to Medieval India. This style of enameling was drawn from the same styles that emerged in Cyprus.  

Enamel Jewelry   

Enamel Jewelry finds its roots in Cyprus in the 13th century BCE. These designs were mainly seen in gilded rings enameled with flattened wires, laying them atop a silver base and then filling the gaps with enamel fondant.     

This type of enameling was relatively popular in Europe's 12th, medieval, and later 19th centuries, from which we see Meenakari emerging as the primary form of painted enameling gaining popularity in India. From this, we see the emergence of the pertabghar enamel style.     

This decoration technique emerged in India around 1870. Enamel Jewelry is associated with the Mughal empire and the Jadau style of jewelry, as it is common to see this sort of enameling on the back of jewelry, especially earrings.      

The Victorians used black enamel on mourning jewelry and everyday pieces for a gothic flair.    

Nakshi Silver Jewelry from South India

TheVasvi Nakshi Silver Choker Set  by Paksha  

A captivating art form with deep roots in the Chola dynasty entices enthusiasts of all ages. Nakshi jewelry showcases designs and motifs that are made of molds and carefully carved. Also known as Temple Jewelry, this style is generally crafted from sheets of gold that are molded to fit the form of the design.     

Paksha’s Mandira collection is dedicated to the heritage of nakshi temple jewelry artisanship. Handcrafted by skilled craftsmen, each design narrates a story.

Initially created for temple worship, this style evolved with time to be used in dance as Bharatnatyam jewelry in most festivals.   

Tribal Silver Jewelry from Across India

The Leela Tribal Hasli Silver Necklace by Paksha  

Tribal silver jewelry, also known for its oxidized look, is another prominent form of silver jewelry donned even today. While the original jewelry is made from roots, plants, and animal bones, it is now recreated with the help of metals, such as silver and brass, and given an oxidized finish to create a worn, vintage look. The Loka collection by Paksha handcrafted on 925 silver, is inspired by the earthy motifs of Indian tribes. These eccentric designs are quite popular nowadays.

Silver Temple Jewelry from South India

Silver Temple jewelry was initially restricted to usage in temples in South India and was meant only for adorning gods and goddesses.  

Now known as Bharatnatyam jewelry or antique jewelry, it has a unique look and old feel. When jewelry is passed down from our parents, grandparents, and ancestors, the piece of jewelry passed down earns the title of 'heirloom.' These jewelry pieces can range between 50-100 years old and are commonly remade instead for ease of handling.  

The Pushti antique coin silver long necklace by Paksha 

Silver Tarakasi Jewelry from Orissa

This style of beads is a testament to the art of Indian silversmiths who skillfully create masterpieces of beadwork. Using fine silver threads, artists carefully weave, arrange and space them to create delicate patterns and designs.  

Conclusion 

From the number of styles of silver jewelry in India, it is clear why the consumption of silver for the creation of jewelry is so high. Indian jewelry making varies across the subcontinent, and their artisans have worked on each version with love and dedication.