What Is Kundan? How Is This Traditional Indian Jewellery Made?

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. Kundan is considered to be royal because it's production is believed to have been originated in the royal courts of Rajasthan centuries ago. Some also call it Bikaneri or Jaipuri jewellery.

The word 'kundan' implies highly refined gold. The jewellery gets its name because of the skilled craftsmanship of encasing glass or gemstones in a base of gold foil made of highly refined and pure form of molten gold. It's production process also involves enameling with vivid colours on the reverse while the kundan design is on the front. It has a rich legacy of over 2500 years.

Swirlster Picks Pretty Kundan Jewellery For You

The History Of Kundan Jewellery

Kundan jewellery is really precious and is worth knowing about it since the beginning of its production. It is said to have originated in the royal courts of Rajasthan and further flourished under the royal patronage of the Mughal era. Its origin can also be traced back to 3rd century BCE. A variation of gold jewellery, kundan was a staple in royal wardrobes, where it was commonly worn as part of bridal jewellery too. Kundan jewellery portrayed by Aishwarya Rai in the movie Jodhaa Akbar particularly highlighted its significance and influence among Rajasthani royals.

Kundan is often confused with polki jewellery, which is made of uncut diamonds. Though they may have similarity in designs, the technique of making both types of jewellery are different. The process of making kundan jewellery requires attention and delicacy. Its base is formed by beating gold into strips, which is then shaped accordingly as per preference. It doesn't have high content of gold in it as the precious stones glorify its appearance. Glass stones such as emerald, sapphire and rubies are carefully set in the base to form what is called kundan. It has intricate detailing which makes it more attractive.

(Also read: How Polki Jewellery Makes A Chic Case For Raw, Uncut Diamonds)

There is nothing like Kundan when it comes to weddings and festivals

Kundan In Modern Times

The art of making kundan is also known as jadau jewellery. This intricate jewellery requires skilled labour and is a handmade piece of art. Many motifs are used in its design and floral patterns is a recurring favourite. Over the years, there has been a change in the weight of the jewellery. Earlier, it used to be heavy but now jewellers have tried to make it lighter to cater to modern tastes. It has also gained new found popularity among Indian brides.

The elegant and graceful appearance of kundan has been in demand for weddings and traditional customs. Lately, the states of Bihar and Punjab have successfully copied the design of kundan jewellery in silver, which has become common amongst the local communities.

Kundan jewellery looks beautiful with all Indian attires. One should definitely keep kundan jewellery in their jewellery case for special occasions.

(Also read: Not Just The Size, The Clarity And Colour Of Diamonds Matter Too)

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