The Origin of Kundan Jewellery is in India.
India is a country known for its diverse culture, religion, arts and crafts. It is famous not just for its rich fabrics but also for its traditional jewellery. One of the most famous types of jewellery is kundan, which is an ancient form of jewellery that is adorned with gemstones and gold foil.
Kundan is considered to be royal because its production is believed to have originated in the royal courts of Rajasthan centuries ago. Some also call it Bikaneri or Jaipuri jewellery.
The word ‘kundan’ implies highly refined gold. The jewellery gets its name because of the skilled craftsmanship of encasing glass or gemstones in a base of gold foil made of highly refined and pure form of molten gold. Its production process also involves enameling with vivid colours on the reverse while the kundan design is on the front. It has a rich legacy of over 2500 years.
Kundan and Polki
Kundan is often confused with polki jewellery, which is made of uncut diamonds. Though they may have similarity in designs, the technique of making both types of jewellery are different. The process of making kundan jewellery requires attention and delicacy. Its base is formed by beating gold into strips, which is then shaped accordingly as per preference. It doesn’t have the high content of gold in it as the precious stones glorify its appearance. Glass stones such as emerald, sapphire and rubies are carefully set in the base to form what is called kundan. It has intricate detailing which makes it more attractive.
Kundan and Different Metals
Although the original designs were made in gold, later it became successfully popular with the common man when it was copied to silver. Nowadays, they are also made in a faux metal base.
In contemporary times, kundan jewellery is world famous, and the best place to get a piece or set is said to be Rajasthan, with Jaipur, Bikaner and Nathdwara being the epicentres for kundan jewellery in India.
Kundan In Modern Times
The art of making kundan is also known as jadau jewellery. This intricate jewellery requires skilled labour and is a handmade piece of art. Many motifs are used in its design and floral patterns are a recurring favourite. Over the years, there has been a change in the weight of the jewellery. Earlier, it used to be heavy but now jewellers have tried to make it lighter to cater to modern tastes. It has also gained new found popularity among Indian brides.
The elegant and graceful appearance of kundan has been in demand for weddings and traditional customs. Lately, the states of Bihar and Punjab have successfully copied the design of kundan jewellery in silver, which has become common amongst the local communities.
Kundan jewellery looks beautiful with all Indian attires. One should definitely keep kundan jewellery in their jewellery case for special occasions.
