India has been a hub for crafts, ranging from ancient Indian techniques from different regions to those introduced during the Mughal era. These crafts are not just confined to textiles, clothing, and architecture, but also extends to jewellery. Jadau, Kundan, Meenakari, and Temple jewellery, are a few examples of beautiful crafts we’ve seen across the country, and often handed down to us by mothers and grandmothers. That said, given the fact that these heavier pieces are most likely taken out less often, more and more women today have been investing in everyday baubles, be it fine or bespoke jewellery. What if we told you, you could get the best of both worlds? We chanced upon some genius brands blending the beauty of heritage jewellery crafts with a more wearable design sensibility, giving you something super relevant to invest in. Here’s our list of brands that are reinventing Indian jewellery crafts, the modern way.
Tribe By Amrapali
Amrapali is one of the oldest Indian brands that celebrates Indian culture and heritage with its Rajasthan-influence jewels. When this Indian brand ventured into a new space with its sub-brand, it expanded its creativity by adopting a wearable and contemporary design style. Using tribal motifs, coloured gemstones, and enamel work, Tribe creates a collection that exudes a sense of Indian bohemianism.
Image Source: Instagram/tribebyamrapali
Uncut By Aditi Amin
Designer Aditi Amin sets the bar high for just the right balance that is wearable luxury. Uncut uses the craft of Jadau and Polki jewellery for fine jewellery that’s minimal, yet contemporarily Indian. The brand uses popular Indian motifs like the fish, moon (chaand) as well as the shape of the tiger claw mixed with delicate necklaces and bands. This truly unique brand has something for everyone, and uses authentic gold, proving to be great heirloom pieces as well.
Image Source: Instagram/uncut_byaditiamin
Anu Merton
Jewellery designer Anu Merton has undeniably taken the jewellery world by storm. Also using cultural Indian motifs and uncut polkis for her modern Indian creations, the label has a mix of traditional Indian pieces as well. Her most popular Maharani Necklace, essentially a line of polkis set in silver and gold, is one of the most versatile pieces one could own. It helps you easily transition your look from contemporary to modern whenever you want. Her latest drop, polki band rings, are a modern Indian take on the more conventional diamond bands of the West.
Image Source: Instagram/anumerton
Dhora
Minimal Indie style brand, Dhora, is not only reviving Indian cultural crafts but also doing it the sustainable way. Most of its polka-style and Indian motif jewellery is made using recycled metal and other materials. The brand’s collection features a mix of recycled metal, silver, and gold-plated jewellery, offering a mix of conscious and value-based products. The design style is contemporary with a hint of Indian details.
Image Source: Instagram/dhora_india/
Devi Jaipur
Founded by designer Devika Jethani Arora in 2001, this Jaipur-based brand is handcrafted silver jewellery. The brand uses 925 silver and its collections expand over various categories of jewellery. Devi uses filigree work, enamelled jewellery, and coloured gemstones in its designs, something true to Indian jewellery. That said, Devi’s designs are rather minimal and include everyday ethnic and boho styles as well.
Image Source: Instagram/devijaipur
Sheetal Zaveri By Vithaldas
Using Indian motifs and traditionally-made pieces, the brand turns jewellery into extraordinarily beautiful and conversation-starting pieces. Whether it’s mixing silver and gold tones, using bright colours, intricate carvings, or traditional motifs like birds, animals, and more, Sheetal Zaveri by Vithaldas is a label that does it all with grace and elegance. While the jewellery is still quite suited to occasion wear, the pieces don’t conform to extremely traditional settings, making them stand out.
Image Source: Instagram/sheetalzaveribyvithaldas/
What’s your style of jewellery? Tell us in the comments below!
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