India is famous for its craftsmanship, and its jewelry is a good example. Indian jewelry is worlds apart from most jewelry styles; it showcases intricate details, the use of premium materials, and gemstones, making each look like a piece of art.
When it comes to jewelry from India, one style that comes to one’s mind is Kundan jewelry. A popular heirloom piece, Kundan-style jewelry comes with deep royal roots. Each piece is crafted with precision and skilled craftsmanship, making it ideal to be passed down through generations.
Well, if you have been lately eyeing these exquisite pieces of jewelry, then you might consider learning more about them. In this guide, we will help you understand Kundan jewelry in a simple manner. From its history to the design process, we will include everything for you.
Key Takeaway:
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Kundan jewelry is a traditional Indian jewelry style that speaks of true art and opulence.
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Each piece of Kundan-style jewelry is designed with skilled artistry and premium materials, making it stand out.
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Kundan jewelry includes intricate motifs, each of which holds significance.
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Kundan jewelry can be used in both bridal, casual, festive, and modern outfits with the help of careful styling.
What is the History Behind Kundan Jewelry?
Kundan jewelry comes from the time when the country of India was ruled by the Mughal and the Rajput emperors. The craft is more than 2,500 years old and began mainly in the states of Rajasthan and Gujarat.
Kundan Indian jewelry is often referred to as the oldest and most intricate art form of India. These exquisite pieces were traditionally designed for kings and queens. This is how it became an heirloom piece among royals.
The term “Kundan” refers to highly refined pure gold pieces. This was originally the base materials for these jewelry pieces and included emeralds, rubies, diamonds, and sapphires. The gemstones were carefully set into layers of pure gold foil, creating unique and breathtaking jewelry designs.
How Kundan Jewelry Has Evolved Through the Decades?
Initially, Kundan jewelry was only crafted for royal families. These were designed in detailed, intricate settings with the help of real gold and gemstones.
However, decades later, now Kundan-style jewelry has evolved a lot, and it is also made in silver as well. With the help of commercialization, gold Kundan jewelry has expanded from the royal courtyards and is now also available to the common man.
Jewelry brands with the help of skilled artists intricately design Kundan jewelry in silver, brass, and other materials other than gold. They have also expanded from real gemstones and now create designs using artificial gemstones as well.
That being said, the beauty and allure of Kundan jewelry have somehow managed to be the same. It is still seen as one of the most exquisite and royal pieces of jewelry from India and is celebrated across the globe.
What is Kundan Jewelry Made of?
When one looks at Kundan Jewelry, the first thing that comes to one's mind is “What is Kundan jewelry designed with?” Well, the answer to this lies in its layered construction style.
The construction process of Indian Kundan jewelry starts with pure or high-carat gold sheets. Skilled artists carefully add lac to create the base structure of the design. Lac is a natural resin that offers a sturdy base for designing.
Once the base structure is filled with lac, then thin layers of gold foil are cut, coiled, and shaped. These steps are extremely important to set the foundation; otherwise, the design won’t come out that well.
The next step in the process is khudayi, which includes engraving the outer surface with the help of precise tools to create different designs and patterns. Once that is done, then skilled jewelry designers move on to the meenakari part.
Meenakari involves filling the engraved patterns made on the gold surface with various colorful gemstones like diamonds, polkis, emeralds, rubies, and sapphires into the pieces. During this, the gems are properly set with the help of inserting a gold foil between the stones and their mount. After that, they are again placed on the surface of the jewelry and supported with the help of gold foiling for a necessary grip.
What Are the Most Common Kundan Jewelry Motifs and Their Meanings?
Kundan-style jewelry is designed with different motifs. However, there are no predetermined criteria. However, the most popular and widely used designs are inspired by nature.
Some of the recurring patterns and motifs in Kundan jewelry include:
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Floral Motifs
This is the most popular choice and features flowers like lotus, rose, jasmine, and tulips. This design often symbolizes beauty and nature, and is widely famous among royal jewelry.
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Animal and Bird Motifs
This style includes different types of animals and birds, like the elephant, tiger, peacock, and others. This represents Indian mythology and nature and is frequently used, often in intricate designs.
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Paisley Pattern
The paisley pattern is also referred to as the mango pattern and represents good luck and prosperity. This is a classic and traditional design that is quite popular among heritage Indian Kundan jewelry pieces.
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Leaf and Vine Patterns
These are plant-related patterns that represent growth, fertility, and vitality. These forms are delicate and intricate designs that even add a touch of femininity.
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Architectural Motifs
Architectural patterns like the domes, arches, and geometric shapes are mainly inspired by the Mughal era. This doesn’t have much inner meaning, just represents the iconic art of architecture from the Mughal era on gold Kundan jewelry.
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Chandbali
This is a crescent-moon-shaped motif that is commonly used in earrings and pendants. This represents the beauty of the moon, its calmness, and has a celestial touch.
Kundan Jewelry for Brides and Beyond
Antique Kundan jewelry is the perfect jewelry choice for anyone looking to create a statement look. Irrespective of whether you are the bride, bridesmaid, wedding guest, or just an attendee at a party, this piece of jewelry is designed for all.
Why Do Brides Choose Kundan Jewelry?
Kundan jewelry has been a part of bridal jewelry for centuries. A Kundan bridal jewelry set is often passed through generations, making it an heirloom.
Kundan Indian jewelry, made with real gold and gemstones or artificial ones, creates a royal and classy look. This is one of the biggest reasons why it is one of the most demanding pieces in the bridal market.
Every bride wishes to look like a queen on their special day, and Kundan jewelry does exactly that. This form of jewelry was favored by royals for a reason, and its classy and opulent appeal is enough to prove it.
Given its beauty and royal look, it is fair enough to say that, often, a Kundan bridal jewelry set complements a bridal look in such a way that even heavy diamond sets can’t compete with it.
How Kundan Jewelry Can Be Styled With Not-so-bridal Looks?
Kundan jewelry isn’t just designed for brides. Rather, one can even utilize its opulence and class by carefully styling it for casual, festive, or even modern business attire.
Casual Ethnic and Festive Wear
Kundan jewelry works the best with any traditional outfit and all that you require for it, careful styling. Some of the outfits that it can work with include:
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Kurti and Jeans
Pair a simple and light Kundan choker or a single-strand Kundan necklace with a plain, solid colored kurta. The choice of a kurta can be silk or cotton, but choose a pair of jeans for the bottom. This will create a smart and casual look.
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Simple Kurta Set
Wear a solid color kurta set with heavy choker-style antique Kundan jewelry. However, if your kurta has a busy print, then it is best to choose a simple Kundan design.
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Plain Saree
Pair simple, lightweight sarees like cotton, linen, or georgette with a medium-length Kundan necklace. Otherwise, you can skip a full set and opt for a pair of Kundan jhumkas.
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Festive Outfits
If you are styling a Diwali or Rakhi outfit, then you can pair a pastel or white-enameled Kundan set with an Anarkali. This includes softer colors and lighter designs that offer a festive glow without the heaviness of bridal jewelry.
Modern and Western Fusion
Styling Kundan Indian jewelry with a Western outfit creates a bold and structured look. Some of the western outfits that this works with include:
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White Shirt and Denim
A bold Kundan choker or a statement necklace can instantly elevate a classic white shirt and denim combo. This creates an effortlessly chic and boss lady style.
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Blazer Styling
Add a touch of tradition to a power suit or blazer with the help of delicate Kundan studs or a simple pendant necklace. You can wear a white shirt underneath or simply wear the blazer alone.
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Cocktail Dresses/Gowns
Pair a sleek, modern Kundan choker with an off-shoulder or deep-neck cocktail dress. This will create a contemporary and high-fashion look.
Experience Opulence With Kundan Jewelry!
Kundan jewelry is more than a piece of jewelry. This is a traditional art style in the form of jewelry that comes with years of heritage. Each piece of Kundan-style jewelry is designed with intricate detailing and skilled craftsmanship, making it look like a piece of art. The style of jewelry speaks of tradition and opulence, making it the perfect choice to elevate any outfit when styled carefully.
So, if you want to experience true art and heritage in the form of jewelry, then shop for the best Kundan jewelry online in the USA from our collection.
