The fabrication of Indian jewellery dates back to before 2100BC, when people began to craft beaded jewellery. People would purchase stones which would then be baked in ovens to cause the colour to turn into a deep red. Small fragments would then be chipped off the stone, bored and polished in order to transform them into decorative beads. The techniques would be passed down through generations.
Gold was becoming more common by 1500BC, and Indian jewellery included earrings, bangles and necklaces. Women were more likely to wear jewellery than men. Gold does not corrode or oxidise, and this quality meant it became associated with immortality and the sun, while silver was thought to represent the moon.
Diamonds were first mined in India, and quickly acquired a high value. They were also used in jewellery to symbolise fidelity, and were traded against protection and favours. Other gemstones were also used in jewellery designs, which ranged from toe and nose rings to hand and head decorations.
Today, Indian jewellery is associated with complex and delicate designs in gold, with vividly coloured gemstones, such as rubies and emeralds. Taken as a whole, the jewellery is striking and sophisticated and its influences can be found in jewellery around the world. Indian jewellery still uses silver, too, and often incorporates intensely-coloured gemstones.
Forms often reflect the influence of Nature and religious deities on jewellery in India. Representations of natural forms are common, as are depictions of gods and goddesses. Indian jewellery that uses non-precious stones and stones offer a more accessible and affordable style of jewellery.
Indian jewellery has such a long and complex history that it cannot fail to influence jewellery artists and designs of today. From the creative inspiration to the materials used, Indian jewellery has retained a distinct identity despite the variety of items and designs available.
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