Rajasthan is more than palaces, deserts, festivals, but the very core of the Indian most beautiful jewellery. Kundan and Polki jewellery are some of its numerous treasures, which symbolize the royal tradition, masterful work, and beauty that will never go out of fashion. The history of the jewellery maker is behind every sparkling necklace or bridal jewelry set and has maintained the crafts of these artisans over centuries.
This blog will unlock the doors of the workshops located in Rajasthan and showcase the people, the processes, and passion that have created the authentic Kundan Polki jewellery.
What Is Kundan Polki Jewellery?
Kundan jewellery is defined as the setting of uncut jewellery in gold foil whereas Polki jewellery is defined as the setting of uncut and natural diamonds in their crude form. Both fashions were created during the Mughal period and they gained recognition among the royalties in Rajasthan and North India.
As a contrast to machine-made jewellery, both Kundan jewellery and Polki jewellery are handcrafted, thus each design is somewhat unique and very personal.
An Interior of a Traditional Kundan Polki Workshop.
In such cities as Jaipur, Bikaner or Jodhpur there are small workshops run by families which are working in the same way as it was hundreds of years ago.
An example of a standard process is shown below:
1. Designing the Jewellery
The artisan drew inspiration in motifs based on Mughal architecture, peacock feathers and lotus flowers and the traditional Rajasthani designs.
2. Creating the Base Frame
The stones are set in place by a metal base (typically of silver or gold-plated silver).
3. Setting the Stones
Pure gold is softened into foil by artisans and the uncut stones or diamonds are pressed into place with the help of traditional tools.
4. Meenakari Work (Enameling)
The flip side is usually adorned with some work made of colored enamel and this makes it look beautiful even on the back of the jewellery.
5. Polishing and Finishing
Lastly, every work is washed, polished and tested in comfort, durability and shine.
The steps may require several days -even weeks - depending on how complicated the design is.
The Artisans: Masters of a Royal Tradition.
Majority of Kundan Polki artisans learn this art through their parents or grandparents. This is a craft practiced in many families as far back as 200 years.
It is not just a living but an identity.
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They exercise from a tender age.
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Skills are not imparted in books but through practice and word of mouth.
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Each of the artisans is specialized in one process: stone setting, enameling, polishing, or design.
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With the contemporary times, these artisans still uphold a tradition, which links the modern brides with royal traditions of the past.
The Exceptional Handcrafted Jewellery Maker in Kundan Polki.
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Each piece is unique
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Wrought in natural uncut stones.
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Environmentally friendly and low machinery.
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Helps local artisan societies.
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Has a cultural and historical importance.
This is why Kundan Polki jewellery is not only a piece of accessory- but a piece of Indian history to put on.
Kundan and Polki Jewellery Revival in the modern world.
Even now, the designers are combining tradition with modernities - making chokers, minimalistic Polki necklaces light, and Indo-Western styles that can be used during weddings as well as during festivals.
The recovery is not only assisting younger artisans to have new markets but also preserving the old techniques.
Final Thought
Behind each shining necklace on Kundan Polki, there are hours of work, generations of experience and unspoken art of the craftsmen of Rajasthan. On putting on that kind of jewellery, you are not only putting on beauty, you are putting on culture, history and human craft.
FAQs
1. What is the distinction between the Kundan jewellery and Polki jewellery?
Kundan is made in glass or precious stones in gold foil and Polki in natural diamonds that are not cut. Polki is normally costlier.
2. Can Kundan Polki jewellery be worn on a daily basis?
It goes best with a wedding, festivals and special occasions because it is delicate and has been handcrafted.
3. What is the best way to tell the authentic Kundan Polki jewellery?
Find uncut stones, minor natural flaws, handwork in finishing and elaborate meenakari decorations in the back.
4. How come Kundan Polki jewellery is costly?
The price is based on actual materials, handcrafts, time and talent.
5. What are the caring instructions of Kundan and Polki jewellery?
Keep in soft cloth bags, do not use water or perfumes and clean dry cloth after usage.