JEWELS OF INDIA AND THEIR SIGNIFICANCE

Much has been said about the indian jewelry and its meaning, what they represent for the inhabitants of this beautiful country, which keeps in its entrails the essence of spirituality. And it is that they have been able to transmit their beliefs and culture from generation to generation, and today, their ideals and customs are the subject of conversation anywhere in the world.

On the other hand, since ancient times its jewelry and taste for gems have been well known; being one of the countries that is known for its large mining operations, which are sold to many countries; so its famous stones, gold, silver, pearls, etc., have attracted billionaires over time who have seen the opportunity to invest in this area.

In this sense, jewels represent not only a symbol of luxury and beauty, but also have a meaning that goes much further, hence our interest in describing the best-known Indian jewels and their meanings:

Ma’an Tikka: This is one of the most significant jewels of India. The compound term, part of the meaning of «maang» or partition of the hair and «tikka» which is the point of the forehead where the tilak or circular mark that is customary to wear in this country is placed. This accessory was used by brides on their wedding day; however, their use has become popular today, and they are worn by ladies who perform functions at weddings or cultural festivals.

Nathni: It is the famous nose ring or pin, which has even become popular in the Western world. It is known as «nath», «laung» or «koka», and has its origin in the Middle East; but later it came to India through the invasion of the Mughals in this territory.

Jhumka: these jewels from India are earrings, very popular in this country, they are worn by both men and women, and in ancient times they were made with bones and wood, but today there are many designs with various materials, especially metals such as tin and gold.

haar: This is one of the most emblematic Indian jewels, because they are chokers considered among the most elegant pieces of jewelry in the world; and they can be found in various models and designs in India and in many parts of the world. In addition, they are considered one of the most expensive pieces in India, but there is a wide variety of designs, styles and prices, so most women can access them.

Bajuband: It is one of the jewels of India, which are used on the arms, and are presented in the form of arm bracelets, which are very fashionable today; simulating the ancient models worn by both women and men, in order to embellish their outfits; and that they were normally made of raw metal; in the form of vining plants, snakes or other animals such as crocodiles.

Chudi: These jewels from India are world-renowned bracelets; which are also called «kangan»; which are usually gold or silver, and are used in pairs, even more than one pair on each arm; and the Hindu tradition considers that women should not wear bare arms, so it is very common to see women’s arms full with these bracelets.

On the other hand, wedding chudi are usually made of glass; and it is a tradition to break them once the husband dies, as a sign of her mourning. In addition, the color is very important and according to it, there is a specific meaning. For example, red symbolizes energy; blue for wisdom, black for power, white for a new beginning, green for marriage luck, purple for independence, orange for success, and yellow for happiness; while the bracelets made of silver symbolize strength and those made of gold symbolize fortune.

angoothi: these jewels of India, are the traditional rings; that in ancient times they were made of raw metal or wood, but today they are made in a variety of materials, such as: stainless steel, copper, plastic, iron, aluminum, among others; varying in quality and cost.

Payal: It is one of the jewels of India, designed to be worn on the lower extremities, exactly around the ankle. They are also known by the name of «pajeb», being very popular among old women, young ladies and children.

bichua: These are toe rings, which are one of the most popular Indian jewels, which come in a variety of designs and styles; and although in ancient times they were worn by married women, they are currently used by young women as an accessory. It should be noted that the term «bichua» means scorpion and the rings are open at the end, in order to adjust them to the size of the finger, squeezing as if it were the tail of a scorpion.