|
|
| |
Art of Harappa
& Mohenjodaro Period
|
Motifs
|
Kundan
|
Meenakari
Sikh Jewellery
|
Maharashtrian Jewellery
|
South Jewellery
Bengali Jewellery
|
Rajasthani Jewellery
|
Mughal Jewellery
|
|
|
| |
BENGALI JEWELLERY
 Bengali
passion for jewellery is legendary. It is reflected in the numerous
customary occasions where it is not only considered auspicious but
mandatory to gift ornaments crafted in gold. The brides trousseau
is incomplete without the gold ornaments, and at the engagement ceremony,
it is customary for
the in-laws to gift the best item of jewellery. Even
the first look by the grandparents of their grandchild is marked by
a gift of a gold coin. The Bengali word for gold, ‘Shona’,
also means ‘Darling’. Since these items came to be a part
of the rituals, there is a wide range of designs that came to be celebrated
as ritual jewellery. The Bengali bangle, 'Nowa', made from a combination
of Iron, Copper, and Gold; is worn by the bride at the doorstep of
her new home and is expected to accompany her to her funeral pyre!
Married  Bengali
women also wear red and white bangles, which are often decorated with
filigree work. It is also customary to wear six gold bangles held
together by thicker bangles. These thick bangles are called ‘Ruli’,
where a ring of Lac is encased in gold. Another popular form of bangles
is the ‘Balas’. It too is Lac filled and has mythical sea
creatures at both ends, to form its mouth. The cla w
setting designs have become a part of the Bengali heritage, with designs
borrowed from European sources. Necklaces adorned with colourful blue-green
peacocks and butterflies are instantly eye-catching. Gold chains are
made into yard long lengths, which are worn, wrapped in circles around
the neck. The pursuit for innovation continues, as does the passion
for the charming ornaments. |
|
|
|
