India is smitten by gold and how! This metal is the epitome of heritage, prosperity and opulence. Its warmth and traditional appeal makes it a true classic piece of any bridal jewellery. The charm of gold dates back to 2600 BC when Egyptians revered Gold as an indestructible and a divine metal. Romans rekindled this relationship and took it to another level by mass producing it. India’s love affair with gold starts with mythological tales of how Gods rode on chariots made of gold.

The roots of Polki diamonds can be traced back to India long before they were popular in the west, and are one of the oldest forms of cut diamonds. They are cut to follow the original rough and have an unfaceted, unpolished surface. While, they are largely used in traditional jewellery and are used mainly on festive occasions, western designers can be credited for making these classic diamonds more contemporary and coupling them with red carpet looks thus making this entire segment younger and trendier.

Diamonds have always been considered as a mark of purity, durability and luxury. From the ancients Greeks to the modern day, many are enamoured by its scintillating beauty and sparkle. Greeks believed that diamonds were tears of God and shards of Stars. Experts suggest that diamonds were first found in India in 800 BC and Alexander the Great brought the first diamonds to Europe in 327 BC from India.

Among traditional Indian jewellery, Kundan has remained popular for its beauty and intricacy. India is a country known for its diverse culture, religion, arts and crafts. It is famous not just for its rich fabrics but also its traditional jewellery. There's an abundance of designs, styles and types for one to choose from. One of the most famous types of jewellery is kundan, which is an ancient form of jewellery that is adorned with gemstones and gold foil.

Jadau work was introduced in India by the Mughals, but practiced and perfected by the skilled craftsman of Rajasthan, which to date is considered as the hub of jadau jewellery. It is essentially a technique of jewellery-making wherein precious gemstones such as uncut diamonds, pearls, emeralds and rubies are embedded into gold. Gold is actually turned into a frame on which precious stones are studded without the use of any adhesive. Jadau derives its name from the colloquial term ‘jad’ (which means to embed), and is commonly used in kundan, polki and meenakari jewellery. The design of the jewellery is made by [a group of artisans called the] Chiterias, followed by engraving and spacing using pliable gold, which is done by Ghaarias.