Indian jewelry is nothing short of a treasure. With a rich history spanning thousands of years, it is a celebration of artistry, tradition and opulence. Famous for its intricate designs and timeless elegance, the variety in Indian jewelry styles is both vast and exquisite. Each region offers its own unique style, making it possible to create stunning combinations by mixing and matching different types of Indian jewelry. In this style guide, we will try to understand the mix and match trend of Indian artificial jewelry that gives a personal and eclectic look that is both contemporary and deeply rooted in tradition.
Understanding the Different Styles of Indian Jewelry
Before getting into the art of mixing and matching, it is essential to understand the distinctive features of the primary styles of Indian jewelry:
Kundan Jewelry
Characterized by its elaborate and ornate designs, Kundan jewelry extensively uses glass stones in a gold base that provides a rich and luxurious look. Said to have originated from the royal courts of Rajasthan, Kundan pieces are often bold and eye-catching.
Polki Jewelry
Like Kundan, Polki jewelry has its roots in Rajasthan. However, uncut diamonds are used in Polki, giving it a raw and authentic charm. Polki pieces are valued for their antique and rustic look, making them perfect for vintage lovers.
Temple Jewelry
As the name suggests, temple jewelry is inspired by the jewelry worn by deities in South Indian temples. Temple jewelry is rich in elaborate detailing and reflects divine elegance. Made primarily of gold, these jewelry often have intricate carvings of gods and goddesses and motifs from Hindu mythology.
Blending Various Styles
Mixing different types of Indian jewelry may seem difficult at first, but with a few guiding principles, you can create a balanced and coherent look.
Choose a Focal Point
Start by selecting one piece of jewelry as the focal point of your outfit. This could be a statement necklace, an elaborate pair of earrings or a bold bracelet. For example, if you choose a Kundan necklace as your focal point, you can build the rest of your look around it. This approach ensures that your outfit doesn’t feel overwhelming and maintains a sense of coherence.
Balance Intricacy
When combining different types of Indian jewelry, consider the intricacy of each piece. If you are wearing an elaborate temple jewelry necklace, pair it with simple kundan or polki earrings to avoid looking cluttered. Balancing the intricacy of your jewelry helps maintain a sophisticated and elegant look.
Harmonize Colors
Color harmony is important when mixing different jewelry styles. Kundan and polki jewelry often have similar colors, dominated by gold and featuring bright gemstones. Temple jewelry, while primarily gold, can also include colorful enamel work. To create a cohesive look, choose pieces that share the same color scheme or complement each other. For example, if your kundan necklace has red and green stones, choose polki earrings in similar colors.
Creating a Cohesive Look
A cohesive look with mixed jewelry styles requires attention to detail and a sense of balance. Here are some tips to achieve this:
Layer with Purpose
Layering is a great way to mix and match different jewelry styles. Start with a base layer, such as a delicate polki choker, and add a long kundan necklace for depth. When layering, make sure each piece stands out and doesn’t overpower the others. This technique works especially well for necklaces and bangles.
Consider the Outfit
Your choice of clothing plays a vital role in how your mixed jewelry will look. Traditional attire such as a saree, lehenga or anarkali provide a perfect canvas to showcase Indian jewelry. Make sure your outfit matches the jewelry in terms of color and style. For instance, a rich silk saree pairs beautifully with temple jewelry, while a heavily embroidered lehenga can be adorned with a mix of kundan and polki pieces.
Mind the Occasion
The occasion often determines the suitability of your jewelry mix. For a lavish wedding, feel free to go with a combination of kundan, polki and temple jewelry. However, for a more sober event, such as a festive ceremony, you may want to keep your mix more restrained and elegant.
By mixing and matching different types of Indian jewelry you can express your unique style while honoring the rich heritage of Indian craftsmanship. Whether you’re getting ready for a wedding, festival or a special occasion, let your creativity shine with a beautifully assorted ensemble of Indian jewelry.