India’s jewelry tradition is rich and vast. But perhaps the most famous characteristic of Indian jewelry is the overwhelming presence of gold.
Spanning thousands of years, India’s jewelry tradition is rich and vast. Beaded necklaces dating all the way back to the Indus Valley Civilization show the country has long produced pieces with remarkable sophistication and artistry. India is home to such techniques as embossing, granulation, and filigree. These, along with the country’s natural deposits of precious and semi-precious stones, have resulted in some of the most ornate pieces the world has ever seen.
But perhaps the most famous characteristic of Indian jewelry is the overwhelming presence of gold. While gold has long held a special appeal all over the world, gold’s prominence in Hindu mythology means it appears frequently in Indian jewelry design. As far back as the Mughal Empire, metalworkers and jewelry-makers have perfected original goldsmithing techniques (such as thekundanmethod of inlaying precious stones in gold). But just as remarkable as its prominence is the color: Indian jewels tend to have a higher gold concentration, resulting in a signature yellow sheen.
Gold jewelry still holds significance to this day, especially in regards to marriage. Gold jewelry is often given as a wedding gift and brides traditionally wear chunky gold jewelry on their wedding day. Mothers pass down prized gold jewels to their daughters as family heirlooms, helping continue on the country’s exquisite golden legacy.
Check out some of the most stunning ancient Indian gold jewels. These drool-worthy specimens are a testament to the dazzling craftsmanship embedded into the country’s history. Sadly, they’re not for sale.
This 19th-century necklace from Tamil Nadu was given as a marriage gift. The groom would have presented it to the bride during the ceremony. Image courtesy of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
These royal earrings from modern-day Andhra Pradesh date all the way back to the 1st Century B.C. Tendril-shaped, they’re adorned with tiny figures of lions and winged elephants. Image courtesy of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Dating back to the early 18th Century, this turban pin is thought to have been made in Rajasthan. Its rubies, emeralds, and diamonds are a signature mark of Mughal design. Image courtesy of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
This locket pendant from the 17th Century features a makara, a mythological beast from Hindu mythology composed of different animals. Traces of a red substance hint the pendant may have been used for perfume. Image courtesy of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
This necklace was exhibited in 1851 as a “modern work” from Calicut. Though stunning in design, its filigree details use a relatively little amount of gold for a maximum effect. Image courtesy of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
