Whenever we think of an Indian wedding, the image that comes
into our mind is of the bride resplendent in her silk attire and jewellery. Like
every other aspect, there have been innovations in the art of making jewellery
but still the antique jewellery sets never go out of fashion. Ancient customs
and traditions dictate that the bride’s family gift her jewels for her wedding.
The bride generally wears the following ornaments on her wedding day:
Necklaces:
A necklace is a piece of jewellery usually made of gold or
silver and worn around the neck. Precious stones like rubies, diamonds,
emeralds etc. are embedded into necklaces increasing their value and beauty. Necklaces
were a symbol of social status in the earlier days and both men and women wore
them. However, with the passage of time, necklaces emerged as ornaments worn
mostly by women. Necklaces are classified by length. The chokers, the princess
necklaces, the opera necklaces and the rope necklaces are a few types.
Bangles:
Bangles or rigid bracelets are mostly worn by South Asian
brides and are made from metal, wood, glass or plastic. Bangles are considered
auspicious and have traditional value. It is believed that it is inauspicious
for a married woman to not wear bangles. Bangles are circular in shape and are
inflexible. Bangles are
part of traditional Indian jewellery and today even men prefer to wear them as
fashion symbols. Bangles are now made with inexpensive metal and plastic and
are a preferred alternative for a gold bangle.
Anklets:
Anklets are one of the most worn pieces of jewellery by
Indian women since time immemorial. Anklets are made out of silver, gold,
leather, plastic, nylon etc. Metal anklets may be of two types – flexible and
inflexible. Sometimes, bells are attached to the anklet and when moved, emit
pleasing sounds.
Earrings:
Earrings are a piece of jewellery worn on pierced ear lobes. Earrings
are worn by both men and women today and are considered quite a fashion symbol.
Beautiful earrings highlight the beauty of the face and are often worn by
Indian brides. Earrings range from small simple studs to elaborate hangings.
The size of an earring depends on the capacity of the earlobe to support it
without tearing.
Indian bridal jewellery is most famous in Jaipur and their signature
jewellery collection is world famous. In most cases, bridal jewellery in India is necessary
for a wedding to take place.