Divine Silver Charms: Indian Silver Jewellery Collection July 31, 2023 – Posted in: Jewellery, Latest Design
Indian jewellery has a rich history and heritage, which is why it is famous all around the world. The antiquity of Indian jewellery is often associated with its traditional designs, craftsmanship techniques, and use of historical materials. Indian jewellery dates back thousands of years, with evidence of jewellery-making found in ancient civilizations like the Indus Valley Civilization. Over the centuries, different dynasties and empires have influenced jewellery designs, resulting in a diverse array of antique pieces. The purity and beauty of Indian silver jewellery have remained in demand for centuries, and everyone is still in love with Indian silver jewellery.
Antique Indian jewellery is highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs of fine jewellery worldwide. Antique pieces often find their way into auctions and private collections due to their rarity and cultural significance. Many families in India have antique jewellery that has been handed down through generations as treasured heirlooms, further enhancing their antique status and sentimental value.
The main reason for preferring silver jewellery over gold is the affordability of silver jewellery because the charm and lustre of silver jewellery are very attractive and getting an amazing piece of jewellery for a reasonable amount is a great deal. Silver jewellery is often adorned with various gemstones, adding beauty and colour to the pieces. This combination of silver and gemstones creates visually stunning and attractive jewellery. In India, silver jewellery has cultural and religious significance, often worn during festivals, ceremonies, and other auspicious occasions. Especially, at weddings, the bride completely relies on jewellery because it is an integral part of grand events. Indian silver jewellery has a diverse range of designs that will make your day.
Specification of Pure Silver Jewellery
Pure silver jewellery, also known as fine silver jewellery, is made from 99.9% pure silver. However, as fine silver is relatively soft and malleable, it is not typically used for intricate jewellery designs due to its tendency to bend and scratch easily. Instead, sterling silver is the most common alloy used for making silver jewellery. Sterling silver contains 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. This combination provides better durability, making it suitable for various jewellery designs and daily wear. Here are some key specifications of pure silver jewellery and sterling silver jewellery:
· Composition:
Pure silver jewellery is made of 99.9% silver, while sterling silver jewellery contains 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals.
· Hallmarking:
In many countries, including India, silver jewellery is required to be hallmarked to indicate its purity. Look for the hallmark stamp, which typically includes a number indicating the purity (e.g., “925” for sterling silver) and a logo or mark of the certification authority.
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Durability:
Pure silver is soft and can easily scratch or bend, while sterling silver is more durable and suitable for various jewellery types.
· Tarnish Resistance:
Both pure silver and sterling silver can tarnish over time due to exposure to air and humidity. Regular cleaning and proper storage can help maintain their shine.
· Gemstone Embellishments:
Pure silver and sterling silver jewellery are often adorn with various gemstones, both precious and semi-precious, to enhance their beauty and value.
· Design and Styles:
Both pure silver and sterling silver jewellery come in a wide variety of designs, ranging from traditional and ethnic styles to contemporary and modern designs.
· Care and Maintenance:
To maintain the shine and beauty of silver jewellery, you must avoid exposure to harsh chemicals, perfumes, and cosmetics. Clean silver jewellery regularly with a soft cloth or silver polishing cloth.
· Affordability:
Sterling silver jewellery is more affordable than gold and other precious metals, making it a popular choice for those looking for high-quality yet budget-friendly options.
· Allergy Considerations:
Sterling silver is generally hypoallergenic, making it suitable for people with sensitive skin. However, individuals with severe metal allergies should exercise caution and may consider testing the jewellery before prolonged wear.
Always buy silver jewellery from trusted and reputable sellers to ensure its authenticity and quality. If you’re unsure about the purity or authenticity of a piece of silver jewellery, consider seeking advice from a certified jeweller or a reliable assaying service.
Traditional Indian Silver Jewellery
Indian jewellery boasts a rich and diverse heritage, with each region having its unique traditional styles and designs. Among the various traditional types of Indian jewellery, some of the most popular and enduring ones include:
1. Kundan Jewellery:
Originating in the royal courts of Rajasthan, Kundan jewellery is renown for its exquisite craftsmanship and use of precious gemstones. It involves setting uncut diamonds or precious stones in a gold foil between layers of lac, creating a stunning and regal look.
2. Meenakari Jewellery:
Hailing from the city of Jaipur, Meenakari jewellery is characterize by colourful enamel work on metal surfaces, often combined with intricate designs in gold. This art form brings a vibrant and eye-catching element to jewellery pieces.
3. Jadau Jewellery:
Jadau is a traditional jewellery style from Gujarat and Rajasthan, featuring intricate designs crafted in gold with uncut diamonds, gemstones, and pearls. The jewellery is craft into stunning necklaces, earrings, and bangles, which are popular bridal choices.
4. Temple Jewellery:
Temple jewellery has religious significance and is typically adorn by classical Indian dancers and brides. It takes inspiration from temple architecture, featuring motifs like gods, goddesses, peacocks, and flowers. This jewellery is traditionally in gold.
5. Thewa Jewellery:
Hailing from the state of Rajasthan, Thewa is a unique art form where intricately design gold sheets are fuse with multi-colour glass to create elaborate jewellery pieces like pendants, necklaces, and earrings.
6. Navratna Jewellery:
Navratna refers to jewellery pieces set with nine specific gemstones, each representing a celestial body and possessing astrological significance. This type of jewellery is believe to bring good luck and positive energy to the wearer.
7. Beaded Jewellery:
Beaded jewellery is prevalent across India and comes in various styles, reflecting regional aesthetics. Different types of beads, including glass, wood, or semi-precious stones, use to create colourful and vibrant pieces.
8. Bengali Jewellery:
Bengali jewellery often features intricate gold designs, particularly known for the Nakshi Kantha work, which involves delicate engravings on gold surfaces. The typical pieces include choker necklaces, earrings, and headpieces.
9. South Indian Jewellery:
The states of South India (Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala) have their distinctive jewellery styles, like the Kasu Mala (coin necklace), Vanki (armlet), Oddiyanam (waist belt), and Manga Malai (mango-shaped necklace).
These traditional types of Indian jewellery have pass down through generations and continue to cherish for their cultural significance and timeless beauty. They are not only wear on special occasions and weddings but also hold sentimental value as heirloom pieces. The artistry and craftsmanship involved in creating these jewellery pieces make them truly extraordinary and an integral part of Indian culture and heritage.
FAQs
What is the importance of Indian silver jewellery worldwide?
Indian silver jewellery has carved a niche in the global jewellery market due to its cultural significance, versatility, affordability, and exceptional craftsmanship. It continues to be cherished and admired worldwide, attracting a diverse clientele seeking unique and beautiful pieces of jewellery with a touch of Indian tradition and artistry. Indian silver jewellery often blends traditional elements with modern aesthetics, making it a blend of both trendy and timeless designs. This fusion attracts people who appreciate classic styles as well as those seeking fashionable and up-to-date jewellery pieces.
How to pair up silver jewellery with a golden outfit?
Pairing silver jewellery with a golden outfit can create a stunning and elegant look. The contrast between silver and gold adds a touch of sophistication to your ensemble. It is advise when wearing a golden outfit: opt for silver jewellery that is simple and understate. Delicate silver pieces, such as thin chain necklaces, stud earrings, and minimalist bracelets, can complement the golden outfit without overwhelming it. If your golden outfit has silver embellishments or details, choose silver jewellery that complements those accents. This coordination will tie the entire look together seamlessly.
How long will the lustre of silver jewellery stay?
The lustre of silver jewellery can fade over time. Silver is a relatively soft metal, and it is susceptible to tarnishing, which is the darkening or discolouration that occurs on the surface of silver when it reacts with sulphur compounds in the air. Tarnishing can make silver jewellery lose its original shine and lustre. Avoid keeping your silver jewellery in a moist environment because moisture can instantly affect your jewellery item so it is better to keep your jewellery covered.