1980's Television Influence - Dynasty, Dallas and Diamante
In the 1980s there was a huge revival of costume jewellery after the glitzy scenes from the television soap operas Dynasty and Dallas were watched by 250 million viewers in the consumer boon of the 1980s. Diamante by day became the norm in reality and earrings reached such huge proportions that the 1990s saw a reaction which quickly dated lavish dress jewellery as the fashion for tiny real diamond studs or a fine stud pearls became the only earring to wear. As soon as the fashion was declared dead by everyone, including grandmothers, it was revived again in 2000AD by the fashion cognoscenti. Now fabulous fakes, especially brooches have gained ground once more
Friday, February 20, 2009
Jewellery
Hollywood Influence
By the 1940s and 1950s American culture was very dominant in Europe. The influence of movie films and the prominence of film stars set the fashion in manners, make-up, hair and clothes. People wanted look alike copies of outfits and jewellery worn by screen idols. It was widely believed that Hollywood glamour would rub off on you if you had the clothes and developed the look.
The Second World War in Europe halted production of fine jewellery when metals were rationed. New estate type, fine precious metal and gem jewellery was simply not available. Quality costume jewellery which was flourishing in America, became much more acceptable and was a real alternative to fine jewellery.
Because of technical advances in production methods, a huge range of styles was available from America, and since it was so popular the market became dynamic and inventive and affordable.
By the 1940s and 1950s American culture was very dominant in Europe. The influence of movie films and the prominence of film stars set the fashion in manners, make-up, hair and clothes. People wanted look alike copies of outfits and jewellery worn by screen idols. It was widely believed that Hollywood glamour would rub off on you if you had the clothes and developed the look.
The Second World War in Europe halted production of fine jewellery when metals were rationed. New estate type, fine precious metal and gem jewellery was simply not available. Quality costume jewellery which was flourishing in America, became much more acceptable and was a real alternative to fine jewellery.
Because of technical advances in production methods, a huge range of styles was available from America, and since it was so popular the market became dynamic and inventive and affordable.
Cocktail Jewellery
Cocktail Jewellery
In the 1920s Lalique designed good mass produced quality glass jewellery. Fake, or costume jewellery was sometimes then called cocktail jewellery. It was greatly influenced by Coco Chanel (1883-1971) and Elsa Schiaparelli (1890-1973). They both encouraged clients to use costume jewellery and to mix it with genuine gem pieces they already owned. Both designers offered imagination and fun and both often sported fabulous fakes.
In the late 1930s Napier of the USA was at the forefront of manufacturing fake cocktail jewels, which offered glamour and escapism. Napier still produces excellent contemporary costume pieces.
In the 1920s Lalique designed good mass produced quality glass jewellery. Fake, or costume jewellery was sometimes then called cocktail jewellery. It was greatly influenced by Coco Chanel (1883-1971) and Elsa Schiaparelli (1890-1973). They both encouraged clients to use costume jewellery and to mix it with genuine gem pieces they already owned. Both designers offered imagination and fun and both often sported fabulous fakes.
In the late 1930s Napier of the USA was at the forefront of manufacturing fake cocktail jewels, which offered glamour and escapism. Napier still produces excellent contemporary costume pieces.
Pearls Jewellery
Various combinations of pearl necklaces come in and out of fashion with regularity so pearls too are a must. Both fake and real freshwater or cultured pearls are very affordable today. Many are now bought from China since trade opened up in the nineties. The price of pearls has dropped by about a fifth in the past 10 years and the Chinese are making waves in the pearl world with their cheaper prices. The Japanese have suffered disease in their pearl beds as well as facing competition and are finding it hard to compete with China's prices.
Pearl necklaces and pearl earrings can lift a complexion and bring light and radiance to the face taking years off a woman whatever her age. If you can afford it, invest in a pair of Mabe pearl earrings. They have a wonderful white glow with a size about one centimetre across and look expensive. Expect to pay about £300 for a pair trimmed with 9ct gold. Look after them by rubbing gently with a pure silk scarf, store in their original box and always put them on after applying perfume and hair products. A matching real pearl necklace freshwater or cultured, will enhance them and you.
Pearls are currently back in fashion again and with the modern twist of being interspaced on gold wire or floating on special synthetic cord they are essential to the millennium look. Look out for variations too on drop pearl earrings in the next year or so
Pearl necklaces and pearl earrings can lift a complexion and bring light and radiance to the face taking years off a woman whatever her age. If you can afford it, invest in a pair of Mabe pearl earrings. They have a wonderful white glow with a size about one centimetre across and look expensive. Expect to pay about £300 for a pair trimmed with 9ct gold. Look after them by rubbing gently with a pure silk scarf, store in their original box and always put them on after applying perfume and hair products. A matching real pearl necklace freshwater or cultured, will enhance them and you.
Pearls are currently back in fashion again and with the modern twist of being interspaced on gold wire or floating on special synthetic cord they are essential to the millennium look. Look out for variations too on drop pearl earrings in the next year or so
Arts & Craft Jewellery
Arts and Crafts Jewellery
The new design philosophy of Arts and Crafts that sprang up after 1870 was a reaction to mass produced goods and inferior machine made products. It was a reaction to the shoddy interior and ornamental products of the industrial revolution. Leaders of the movement in England included William Morris and John Ruskin and they promoted simple Arts and Crafts of designs based on floral, primitive or Celtic forms worked as wallpapers, furniture and jewellery.
The polished stones used in Arts and Crafts jewellery gave a medieval, simpler, gentler, tooled hand made look and feel to items. People inspired by the movement to produce work of a more individual nature included Liberty of London and Renee Mackintosh of Glasgow. By 1900, Arts and Crafts as a movement declined, so Art Nouveau, a more ostentatious version started in France took root.
Art Nouveau
Art Nouveau jewellery follows curving sinuous organic lines of romantic and imaginary dreaminess, with long limbed ethereal beauties sometimes turning into winged bird and flower forms. The movement began in Paris and its influence went throughout the Western world.
The Frenchman René Lalique was the master goldsmith of the era of Art Nouveau producing exquisite one off pieces. As an art movement today, the style is still admired and still copied.
Magnificent floral and botanical forms often worked in enamel were inexpensive and became so popular once mass-produced, that the Art Nouveau style declined.
The new design philosophy of Arts and Crafts that sprang up after 1870 was a reaction to mass produced goods and inferior machine made products. It was a reaction to the shoddy interior and ornamental products of the industrial revolution. Leaders of the movement in England included William Morris and John Ruskin and they promoted simple Arts and Crafts of designs based on floral, primitive or Celtic forms worked as wallpapers, furniture and jewellery.
The polished stones used in Arts and Crafts jewellery gave a medieval, simpler, gentler, tooled hand made look and feel to items. People inspired by the movement to produce work of a more individual nature included Liberty of London and Renee Mackintosh of Glasgow. By 1900, Arts and Crafts as a movement declined, so Art Nouveau, a more ostentatious version started in France took root.
Art Nouveau
Art Nouveau jewellery follows curving sinuous organic lines of romantic and imaginary dreaminess, with long limbed ethereal beauties sometimes turning into winged bird and flower forms. The movement began in Paris and its influence went throughout the Western world.
The Frenchman René Lalique was the master goldsmith of the era of Art Nouveau producing exquisite one off pieces. As an art movement today, the style is still admired and still copied.
Magnificent floral and botanical forms often worked in enamel were inexpensive and became so popular once mass-produced, that the Art Nouveau style declined.
Mourning Jewellery
Mourning Jewellery
There was a huge fashion for mourning jewellery which highlights how sentimental the Victorian age was. The initial months of mourning were unadorned by jewellery of any kind. As the mourning rituals increased, mourning jewellery developed as a fashion item. Jet jewellery was worn a great deal by Queen Victoria after Prince Albert's death.
Jet from Whitby, North of England was set into mourning pieces. All types of material that were black were used and almost all included a lock of the dead loved one's hair. Hair was also plaited, braided or twisted very tightly until it became hard and thread like. To many of us living in the twenty first century the use of hair is an unattractive side of some antique jewellery
There was a huge fashion for mourning jewellery which highlights how sentimental the Victorian age was. The initial months of mourning were unadorned by jewellery of any kind. As the mourning rituals increased, mourning jewellery developed as a fashion item. Jet jewellery was worn a great deal by Queen Victoria after Prince Albert's death.
Jet from Whitby, North of England was set into mourning pieces. All types of material that were black were used and almost all included a lock of the dead loved one's hair. Hair was also plaited, braided or twisted very tightly until it became hard and thread like. To many of us living in the twenty first century the use of hair is an unattractive side of some antique jewellery
Victorian Jewellery
Victorian Jewellery
When Queen Victoria came to the throne in 1837 jewellery was romantic and nationalistic. It gave attention to the pressure of European folk art, which later influenced the Arts and Crafts Movement. Until mid century most western jewellery came from Europe, but soon jewellery began to be made in America and Australia.
Although jewellery had been made by multiple methods of production for centuries, mid Victorian mass production in Birmingham (England), Germany and Providence, Rhode Island meant that standards were lowered.
Victorian women rebelled when they saw some of the machine made jewellery on offer, although much of what has survived is of good quality. Many wore no jewellery at all, or bought from the artist craftsman jewellers who emerged at much the same time.
Some jewellers like Tiffany began to make fine jewellery of such high standard that they soon opened shops in main cities of Europe.
When Queen Victoria came to the throne in 1837 jewellery was romantic and nationalistic. It gave attention to the pressure of European folk art, which later influenced the Arts and Crafts Movement. Until mid century most western jewellery came from Europe, but soon jewellery began to be made in America and Australia.
Although jewellery had been made by multiple methods of production for centuries, mid Victorian mass production in Birmingham (England), Germany and Providence, Rhode Island meant that standards were lowered.
Victorian women rebelled when they saw some of the machine made jewellery on offer, although much of what has survived is of good quality. Many wore no jewellery at all, or bought from the artist craftsman jewellers who emerged at much the same time.
Some jewellers like Tiffany began to make fine jewellery of such high standard that they soon opened shops in main cities of Europe.
Jewellery
Empire Jewellery
When Napoleon eventually emerged as Emperor of France in 1804 he revived jewellery and fashion as a new court of pomp and ostentatious display evolved.
'Joailliers' worked fine jewellery and 'bijoutiers' used less precious materials.
The members of the new French imperial family had the former French royal family gems re-set in the latest neo-classical style. These new trends in jewellery were copied in Europe and particularly England. Greek and Roman architecture were the main influence for designs as famous discoveries of ancient treasure had not yet happened.
Parures
Parures were a matching suite of coordinating precious gems which could include a necklace, a comb, a tiara, a diadem, a bandeau, a pair of bracelets, pins, rings, drop earrings or and cluster stud earrings and possibly a belt clasp. Both Josephine and later Napoleon's second wife had magnificent sets of Parures.
Right - Parure consisting of bracelet, necklace, ring and earrings.
Cameos
After Napoleon's cameo decorated coronation crown was seen, cameos were the rage.
Sometimes cameos were carved from hardstone, but more often from substitutes like conch shells and set pieces of Wedgwood porcelain.
When Napoleon eventually emerged as Emperor of France in 1804 he revived jewellery and fashion as a new court of pomp and ostentatious display evolved.
'Joailliers' worked fine jewellery and 'bijoutiers' used less precious materials.
The members of the new French imperial family had the former French royal family gems re-set in the latest neo-classical style. These new trends in jewellery were copied in Europe and particularly England. Greek and Roman architecture were the main influence for designs as famous discoveries of ancient treasure had not yet happened.
Parures
Parures were a matching suite of coordinating precious gems which could include a necklace, a comb, a tiara, a diadem, a bandeau, a pair of bracelets, pins, rings, drop earrings or and cluster stud earrings and possibly a belt clasp. Both Josephine and later Napoleon's second wife had magnificent sets of Parures.
Right - Parure consisting of bracelet, necklace, ring and earrings.
Cameos
After Napoleon's cameo decorated coronation crown was seen, cameos were the rage.
Sometimes cameos were carved from hardstone, but more often from substitutes like conch shells and set pieces of Wedgwood porcelain.
Jewellery
17th Century Fake Pearls and Strass Paste Gems
In the 1630s large quantities of pearls were used as clothing accessories. To be truly fashionable pearls needed to be worn in abundance. In the C17th, Jaquin of Paris patented a method of making fake pearls. He coated blown glass hollow balls with varnish mixed with iridescent ground fish scales. The hollow balls were then filled with wax to strengthen them. This method made Paris the main producer of fake pearls for over 200 years.
Paste is a compound of glass containing white lead oxide and potash. Paste jewellery was usual in the 1670s and was worn at court. The best and most long lasting paste jewellery was produced after 1734 by Georges Strass. Most fake jewellery was Paris led. Just about any kind of fake gem could be made, including fake opals. Many pieces of fake jewellery have survived in their original setting, but fine estate pieces of real gems were often broken up for resetting into more fashionable styles of the era.
After 1760 the production of fake jewellery spread to London and to Birmingham. Steel which was produced easily during the industrial revolution was used for settings for marcasite and jasper ware cameos. Glass and Wedgwood porcelain paste cameos were made in English factories and were very popular too.
Ornate shoe buckles of paste, steel and tin were part of fashionable dress. A similar fad at this time were elaborate paste jewelled buttons, fashionable in British society. As well as fake jewellery gaining popularity, semi precious jewels such as uncut garnets became usual as part of less formal day dress.
In the 1630s large quantities of pearls were used as clothing accessories. To be truly fashionable pearls needed to be worn in abundance. In the C17th, Jaquin of Paris patented a method of making fake pearls. He coated blown glass hollow balls with varnish mixed with iridescent ground fish scales. The hollow balls were then filled with wax to strengthen them. This method made Paris the main producer of fake pearls for over 200 years.
Paste is a compound of glass containing white lead oxide and potash. Paste jewellery was usual in the 1670s and was worn at court. The best and most long lasting paste jewellery was produced after 1734 by Georges Strass. Most fake jewellery was Paris led. Just about any kind of fake gem could be made, including fake opals. Many pieces of fake jewellery have survived in their original setting, but fine estate pieces of real gems were often broken up for resetting into more fashionable styles of the era.
After 1760 the production of fake jewellery spread to London and to Birmingham. Steel which was produced easily during the industrial revolution was used for settings for marcasite and jasper ware cameos. Glass and Wedgwood porcelain paste cameos were made in English factories and were very popular too.
Ornate shoe buckles of paste, steel and tin were part of fashionable dress. A similar fad at this time were elaborate paste jewelled buttons, fashionable in British society. As well as fake jewellery gaining popularity, semi precious jewels such as uncut garnets became usual as part of less formal day dress.
Jewellery
The Importance of C17th Earrings and Dress Ornaments
In the C17th a woman always donned her earrings whether dressed or undressed. By day fake pearl earrings and paste earrings to coordinate with clothing were acceptable. Fine diamond jewellery was kept for evening and embroidered stomachers which formed part of the dress frontage, could be decorated by jewels.
Suites of left and right coordinating jewelled pieces called dress ornaments decreased in size as they were placed down the stomacher. Sometimes the sleeves or skirts were decorated with smaller matching brooches.
Dress ornaments in the form of diamond bows and shuttles. As many as 42 shuttles could be used to decorate a dress
In the C17th a woman always donned her earrings whether dressed or undressed. By day fake pearl earrings and paste earrings to coordinate with clothing were acceptable. Fine diamond jewellery was kept for evening and embroidered stomachers which formed part of the dress frontage, could be decorated by jewels.
Suites of left and right coordinating jewelled pieces called dress ornaments decreased in size as they were placed down the stomacher. Sometimes the sleeves or skirts were decorated with smaller matching brooches.
Dress ornaments in the form of diamond bows and shuttles. As many as 42 shuttles could be used to decorate a dress
Jewellery
Jewels have always been used as love tokens and whilst many pieces were fine gems and precious metals, good fake jewellery intended to deceive existed. True gemstones and pearls originated from the east and were bought chiefly by the Italians. The Italian merchants then sold the goods on in Europe. Good glass imitations were often used and sometimes with intent as in royal funerary robes and children's jewellery.
Flawless, round, natural, large white pearls were prized more than precious gemstones. The finest of pearls were provided by South India and the Persian Gulf. The Italians, particularly the Venetians and people from Murano, could make imitation glass gems and pearls that were very good likenesses of the real jewels. Recipes for false pearls existed in 1300 when white powdered glass mixed with albumen (egg white) and snail slime, produced beads that were used as imitation pearls.
Flawless, round, natural, large white pearls were prized more than precious gemstones. The finest of pearls were provided by South India and the Persian Gulf. The Italians, particularly the Venetians and people from Murano, could make imitation glass gems and pearls that were very good likenesses of the real jewels. Recipes for false pearls existed in 1300 when white powdered glass mixed with albumen (egg white) and snail slime, produced beads that were used as imitation pearls.
Jewellery
C13th Medieval Sumptuary Laws
Sumptuary Laws in C13th Medieval Europe came into force and capped luxury in dress and jewellery. Townspeople in France, were not allowed to wear girdles or coronals made of pearls, gemstones, gold or silver. Similar laws existed in England. The fact that these laws forbade yeomen and artisans from wearing gold and silver indicates how the status of jewellery and sumptuous dress had become widespread beyond just the nobility.
Sumptuary Laws in C13th Medieval Europe came into force and capped luxury in dress and jewellery. Townspeople in France, were not allowed to wear girdles or coronals made of pearls, gemstones, gold or silver. Similar laws existed in England. The fact that these laws forbade yeomen and artisans from wearing gold and silver indicates how the status of jewellery and sumptuous dress had become widespread beyond just the nobility.
Italian Gold
Italian Gold and Roman Coinage
Eight centuries BC the Italian Etruscans in the Tuscany region produced granulated textured gold work. They made large fibulae or clasps, necklaces, bracelets and earrings. They also made pendants that were hollow and could be filled with perfume. The Italians are still renowned for high quality stylish trend making gold work today.
In coinage the Romans used 18 and 24 carat gold. Being fairly easily available the coinage was the craftsman's raw material for decorative jewel work. 2000 years ago the Romans were using sapphires from Sri Lanka, cloudy emeralds, garnets, amber and Indian diamond crystals. When England was under Roman rule, fossilized wood called jet from the North of England was carved into interesting pieces.
Eight centuries BC the Italian Etruscans in the Tuscany region produced granulated textured gold work. They made large fibulae or clasps, necklaces, bracelets and earrings. They also made pendants that were hollow and could be filled with perfume. The Italians are still renowned for high quality stylish trend making gold work today.
In coinage the Romans used 18 and 24 carat gold. Being fairly easily available the coinage was the craftsman's raw material for decorative jewel work. 2000 years ago the Romans were using sapphires from Sri Lanka, cloudy emeralds, garnets, amber and Indian diamond crystals. When England was under Roman rule, fossilized wood called jet from the North of England was carved into interesting pieces.
Jewellery
Gold and Gems in Greece 1400 BC
In ancient Greece, beads shaped as natural forms like shells, flowers and beetles were manufactured on a large scale. Beautiful and delicate necklaces and earrings were found in burial sites in Northern Greece. By 300 BC the Greeks were making multi coloured jewellery and used emeralds, garnets, amethysts and pearls. Right - Greek earrings.
They also used coloured stones, glass and enamel. Carved cameos of Indian Sardonyx (a striped brown pink and cream agate stone) along with filigree gold work were widely made. Beads were made by joining two flat pieces of gold and filling them with sand.
In ancient Greece, beads shaped as natural forms like shells, flowers and beetles were manufactured on a large scale. Beautiful and delicate necklaces and earrings were found in burial sites in Northern Greece. By 300 BC the Greeks were making multi coloured jewellery and used emeralds, garnets, amethysts and pearls. Right - Greek earrings.
They also used coloured stones, glass and enamel. Carved cameos of Indian Sardonyx (a striped brown pink and cream agate stone) along with filigree gold work were widely made. Beads were made by joining two flat pieces of gold and filling them with sand.
Jewellery
In the ancient world gold was the preferred metal for making jewellery. It was rare, did not tarnish and best of all it was malleable, so it could be worked fairly easily.
Magnificent bracelets, pendants, necklaces, rings, armlets, earrings, diadems, head ornaments, pectoral ornaments and collars of gold were all produced in ancient Egypt, the land of the Pharaohs.
Excavations by Howard Carter in 1922 led to the great discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb and many gold funerary artefacts, all showing the art work of ancient Egypt.
Left - Gold funeral mask of King Tutankhamun
Magnificent bracelets, pendants, necklaces, rings, armlets, earrings, diadems, head ornaments, pectoral ornaments and collars of gold were all produced in ancient Egypt, the land of the Pharaohs.
Excavations by Howard Carter in 1922 led to the great discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb and many gold funerary artefacts, all showing the art work of ancient Egypt.
Left - Gold funeral mask of King Tutankhamun
Jewellery
Jewelry exports from France will soon be identified with a hallmark in the shape of the European country. The French mint, Monnaie de Paris, developed the symbol to guarantee French origins and demonstrate that the manufacturer adhered to legal and environmental regulations.
Created with small jewelry exporters that do not use a brand name in mind, the French government would like to increase the growth rate of jewelry exports once the new hallmark is in place
Created with small jewelry exporters that do not use a brand name in mind, the French government would like to increase the growth rate of jewelry exports once the new hallmark is in place
Jewellery
Jewelry exports from France will soon be identified with a hallmark in the shape of the European country. The French mint, Monnaie de Paris, developed the symbol to guarantee French origins and demonstrate that the manufacturer adhered to legal and environmental regulations.
Created with small jewelry exporters that do not use a brand name in mind, the French government would like to increase the growth rate of jewelry exports once the new hallmark is in place
Created with small jewelry exporters that do not use a brand name in mind, the French government would like to increase the growth rate of jewelry exports once the new hallmark is in place
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Jewellery
The Great Imperial Crown made in 1762 for the coronation of Catherine the Great by the court jeweler J.Pauzie represents the height of creative imagination, lavish beauty and skilled workmanship. It is adorned with five thousand diamonds arranged in a splendid pattern of laurel wreaths and oak branches.
The glitter of the diamonds is enhanced by two rows of gleaming pearls and the crown is topped by a huge red spinel, the second largest in the world, which weighs almost 400 carats. The Scepter has the world's famous "Orlov Diamond", the largest faceted diamond weighing 189 carats.
Faberge CollectionThe 19th century brought changes in the organization of jewelry making. Many famous jewelers worked in Russia, and some, such as Faberge have become household names. Peter Carl Faberge, the son of French-German ancestors, ruled the world of jewels in the four decades prior to the outbreak of the World War I. The House of Faberge became world-famous. It produced inter alia, figurines made of semi-precious stones, snuffboxes, powder-boxes and items of jewelry.
Faberge. Snuffbox, Circa 1765, Hermitage Museum. A diamond-set enameled two-color gold Imperial presentation snuff-box applied with a deep gold hued enamel over guilloche sunburst patterns accented by Imperial eagles and defined by a gold chased trellis set with diamonds. At the center of the box, is the diamond-set crowned monogram of Tsar Nicholas II against an oval panel enameled white with a diamond-set border.
A gold-and silver-mounted diamond-set tiara, signed with initials KF for Carl Faberge.The House of Faberge was distinguished from other jewelers of the period by its beautifully made "Easter eggs with a surprise". For eleven years the firm received orders from the Imperial court for these eggs.
The Lilies of the Valley egg is a masterpeace in Art Nouveau style. The miniature of Tzar Nicholas II and his two daughters Olga and Tatyana painted within the body of the egg. The pictures pop up when a pearl knob is turned.When Kerensky's provisional government took power in February 1917, the egg was not listed in the inventory of the Imperial Treasury. Even today it is not clear how it came to the West. The Forbes Magazine Collection acquired it together with the Coronation egg in 1979 for 2.16 million US dollars.
Only six of the Imperial Easter eggs contained mechanism. One of the most famous is the Rooster egg, which the ruler, Nicholas II, presented to his mother on April 9 1900. At the push of the button, the lid opens, and a rooster appears, crowing and flapping his wings. The small rooster is decorated with real feather. In 1985 the egg was acquared by the Forbes Magazine Collection for 1.76 million US dollars.The Coronation Egg is enameled a deep gold hue over guilloche sunburst patterns and blanketed by a gold trellis marked by diamond-set Imperial eagles at the intersections. At the top of the egg is the crowned monogram of Tsarina Alexandra Feodorovna emblazoned in rose-cut diamonds and rubies. The date 1897, appears beneath a smaller portrait diamond at the bottom of the egg. When the egg is opened, the surprise fitted inside a velvet-lined compartment is a removable replica of a coach of gold, enamel, diamond and rock crystal.
Faberge: The Coronation Egg.Today in the museum of Faberge you can find the most exquisite and famous works of the house of Faberge from the Imperial Easter eggs collection to highly luxurious items for everyday use.
The glitter of the diamonds is enhanced by two rows of gleaming pearls and the crown is topped by a huge red spinel, the second largest in the world, which weighs almost 400 carats. The Scepter has the world's famous "Orlov Diamond", the largest faceted diamond weighing 189 carats.
Faberge CollectionThe 19th century brought changes in the organization of jewelry making. Many famous jewelers worked in Russia, and some, such as Faberge have become household names. Peter Carl Faberge, the son of French-German ancestors, ruled the world of jewels in the four decades prior to the outbreak of the World War I. The House of Faberge became world-famous. It produced inter alia, figurines made of semi-precious stones, snuffboxes, powder-boxes and items of jewelry.
Faberge. Snuffbox, Circa 1765, Hermitage Museum. A diamond-set enameled two-color gold Imperial presentation snuff-box applied with a deep gold hued enamel over guilloche sunburst patterns accented by Imperial eagles and defined by a gold chased trellis set with diamonds. At the center of the box, is the diamond-set crowned monogram of Tsar Nicholas II against an oval panel enameled white with a diamond-set border.
A gold-and silver-mounted diamond-set tiara, signed with initials KF for Carl Faberge.The House of Faberge was distinguished from other jewelers of the period by its beautifully made "Easter eggs with a surprise". For eleven years the firm received orders from the Imperial court for these eggs.
The Lilies of the Valley egg is a masterpeace in Art Nouveau style. The miniature of Tzar Nicholas II and his two daughters Olga and Tatyana painted within the body of the egg. The pictures pop up when a pearl knob is turned.When Kerensky's provisional government took power in February 1917, the egg was not listed in the inventory of the Imperial Treasury. Even today it is not clear how it came to the West. The Forbes Magazine Collection acquired it together with the Coronation egg in 1979 for 2.16 million US dollars.
Only six of the Imperial Easter eggs contained mechanism. One of the most famous is the Rooster egg, which the ruler, Nicholas II, presented to his mother on April 9 1900. At the push of the button, the lid opens, and a rooster appears, crowing and flapping his wings. The small rooster is decorated with real feather. In 1985 the egg was acquared by the Forbes Magazine Collection for 1.76 million US dollars.The Coronation Egg is enameled a deep gold hue over guilloche sunburst patterns and blanketed by a gold trellis marked by diamond-set Imperial eagles at the intersections. At the top of the egg is the crowned monogram of Tsarina Alexandra Feodorovna emblazoned in rose-cut diamonds and rubies. The date 1897, appears beneath a smaller portrait diamond at the bottom of the egg. When the egg is opened, the surprise fitted inside a velvet-lined compartment is a removable replica of a coach of gold, enamel, diamond and rock crystal.
Faberge: The Coronation Egg.Today in the museum of Faberge you can find the most exquisite and famous works of the house of Faberge from the Imperial Easter eggs collection to highly luxurious items for everyday use.
Jewellery
n 1719, Emperor Peter I "the Great" (reigned 1682-1725), founded the earliest version of what we now know as the State Diamond Fund of the Russian Federation. Peter I had visited other European nations, and introduced many innovations to Russia, one of which was the creation of a permanent fund to house a collection of jewels which belonged not to the Romanov family, but to the Russian State. Peter declared that the state holdings were inviolate, and could not be altered, sold, or given away - and he also decreed that each subsequent Emperor or Empress should leave a certain number of pieces acquired during their reign to the State, for the permanent glory of the Russian Empire. Peter left all of the pieces used in the coronation ceremony to the Diamond Fund, as well as many important pieces of 15th, 16th and 17th century jewelry. The pieces were housed in a special secure room in the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg, first called the Renteria, and subsequently called the Diamond Chamber.
Dynamic Jewellery
Dynamic Silver Jewellery brings you the most elegant and royal jewellery, which add sparkle to your beauty. We are Manufacturer & Exporter of Sterling Silver Jewellery, Rings, Necklaces, Bracelets, Handcrafted Earrings, Pendants, Chains, Chokers, Bangles, Indian Handcrafted Silver Products, Precious & Semiprecious Gemstones. We expertise in creating exquisite jewellery pieces in both traditional and contemporary styles. Our focus is on timely delivery of quality products at competitive prices. We have never compromised on quality and lay special emphasis on it. We believe quality is the door to success.
Regal Jewellery
A Regal jewellery collection, based on the original jewels belonging to the Duchess of Windsor…Re-created by international jewellery designer Elisabeth Christ in solid 14 carat gold, this fabulous set is based on the magnificent jewels that King Edward VIII gave to Wallis Simpson, the love of his life, when he renounced the throne.
The complete set comprises:-
The Royal Pendant, with a 3 carat (approx) facet cut fine topaz and 7 radiant diamonds all handset with meticulous craftsmanship in 14 ct gold.
Approx size of pendant is 20mm.
The gold chain is approx 45cm.
The Royal Ring, has a beautiful facet cut fine topaz at its centre, surrounded by radiant diamonds all handset in 14 ct gold
Please do not forget to state your ring size. To check your correct ring size please measure the inside width (diameter) in millimetres of a well-fitting ring.
The Royal Earrings, have two facet cut fine topaz stones, and 20 radiant diamonds, a total of 0.1 carats of precious gemstones, each carefully handset in 14 ct gold
For pierced ears, the size of the earrings is approx. 30mm x 15mm.
The Royal Jewellery Set comes to you in a beautiful gift box together with a signed Certificate of Authenticity
The complete set comprises:-
The Royal Pendant, with a 3 carat (approx) facet cut fine topaz and 7 radiant diamonds all handset with meticulous craftsmanship in 14 ct gold.
Approx size of pendant is 20mm.
The gold chain is approx 45cm.
The Royal Ring, has a beautiful facet cut fine topaz at its centre, surrounded by radiant diamonds all handset in 14 ct gold
Please do not forget to state your ring size. To check your correct ring size please measure the inside width (diameter) in millimetres of a well-fitting ring.
The Royal Earrings, have two facet cut fine topaz stones, and 20 radiant diamonds, a total of 0.1 carats of precious gemstones, each carefully handset in 14 ct gold
For pierced ears, the size of the earrings is approx. 30mm x 15mm.
The Royal Jewellery Set comes to you in a beautiful gift box together with a signed Certificate of Authenticity
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Jewellery
Mumbai is one of the main center for pearl jewelry in India and is famous world over. It is the largest center for pearl trading in the world and sells about 40-50 thousand kilograms of pearls per year. Mumbai has always been referred to as the ?city of pearls? even though it is far away from the sea.Pearls in Mumbai have a long history.Ram Dutt Malji, a Haryanvi pearl trader, became a royal jeweler.
Intitially, the trade in pearls depended on the pearls coming from the Persian Gulf. There are two kinds of pearls-real or cultured. After a pearl is made, it is separated as per the shape. The drilling is either done horizontally or vertically. This is done by highly skilled artisans.
Mumbai was a rich princely state. The imperial patronage ensured affluence of arts, crafts and cuisine. This prosperous lifestyle demanded and attracted many craftsmen from distant parts of the world, especially the Arabian Gulf where the rare original pearls are found in profusion. The royal families demanded that these pearls be brought to India in abundance.
Hence, Mumbai became the one-stop-destination for pearls. There is an entire street consisting of pearl shops named - Patther Gatti. The erstwhile Nizam rulers of Mumbai laid the foundation of pearl jewelry in the 19th century.
Typical designs being Satlada (seven strands of pearls set with emeralds, diamonds and rubies, Kundan Ranihar (pearl sets with enamel kundan work), and the regular Jugni sets (several strands of pearls with a central pendant) and many more.Jewelers in the pearl markets of Mumbai have combined pearls with the shimmer of gold, the rich rubies and the exquisite emeralds for centuries.
Skilled craftsmen, do processing and grading of pearls here. After the long process of grading and processing of pearls is over they are strung together by skilled knitters or patwas, using silk or gold strings. Different types of pearl necklaces are made in Mumbai.
They manufacture handmade gold jewellery like ecklaces, bracelets, bangles, earrings, anklets, chains, pendants, brooches and rings, traditional gold jewellery, kundan gold jewelery, minakari jewellery, diamond jewellery like rings, wedding sets, bracelets, studded chains, pendants, brooches, earrings, studded bangles.It is indeed amazing to see traditional designs still going strong and surviving the tempests of time in the narrow alleys of the Old City today.
Earrings set with uncut diamonds and pearls, are also very popular among the ladies of the city. The pearl markets of the city also offer infinite varieties of beautiful chokers, pendants and lockets.
Several styles of pearl jewellery have progressed along with the pearl trade. The 'Satlada' and 'Panchlada Haar' are respectively seven and five stringed necklaces and are very popular. They are often intermingled with emeralds, rubies and onyx beads set in nine-carat gold. Earrings set with uncut diamonds and pearls, are also very popular among the ladies of the city. The pearl markets of the city also offer infinite varieties of beautiful chokers, pendants and lockets.
Intitially, the trade in pearls depended on the pearls coming from the Persian Gulf. There are two kinds of pearls-real or cultured. After a pearl is made, it is separated as per the shape. The drilling is either done horizontally or vertically. This is done by highly skilled artisans.
Mumbai was a rich princely state. The imperial patronage ensured affluence of arts, crafts and cuisine. This prosperous lifestyle demanded and attracted many craftsmen from distant parts of the world, especially the Arabian Gulf where the rare original pearls are found in profusion. The royal families demanded that these pearls be brought to India in abundance.
Hence, Mumbai became the one-stop-destination for pearls. There is an entire street consisting of pearl shops named - Patther Gatti. The erstwhile Nizam rulers of Mumbai laid the foundation of pearl jewelry in the 19th century.
Typical designs being Satlada (seven strands of pearls set with emeralds, diamonds and rubies, Kundan Ranihar (pearl sets with enamel kundan work), and the regular Jugni sets (several strands of pearls with a central pendant) and many more.Jewelers in the pearl markets of Mumbai have combined pearls with the shimmer of gold, the rich rubies and the exquisite emeralds for centuries.
Skilled craftsmen, do processing and grading of pearls here. After the long process of grading and processing of pearls is over they are strung together by skilled knitters or patwas, using silk or gold strings. Different types of pearl necklaces are made in Mumbai.
They manufacture handmade gold jewellery like ecklaces, bracelets, bangles, earrings, anklets, chains, pendants, brooches and rings, traditional gold jewellery, kundan gold jewelery, minakari jewellery, diamond jewellery like rings, wedding sets, bracelets, studded chains, pendants, brooches, earrings, studded bangles.It is indeed amazing to see traditional designs still going strong and surviving the tempests of time in the narrow alleys of the Old City today.
Earrings set with uncut diamonds and pearls, are also very popular among the ladies of the city. The pearl markets of the city also offer infinite varieties of beautiful chokers, pendants and lockets.
Several styles of pearl jewellery have progressed along with the pearl trade. The 'Satlada' and 'Panchlada Haar' are respectively seven and five stringed necklaces and are very popular. They are often intermingled with emeralds, rubies and onyx beads set in nine-carat gold. Earrings set with uncut diamonds and pearls, are also very popular among the ladies of the city. The pearl markets of the city also offer infinite varieties of beautiful chokers, pendants and lockets.
Jewellery
Wearing a designer outfit will have heads turning, but if you were to combine it with some exotic Jewellery, it would create a revolution. That is exactly what Roopa Vohra’s achieve for the woman who sports them. Her collection is what we say “just perfect”. It is not very expensive, nor is it low end, ideal for women who love to socialize and who work towards having a wardrobe they don’t have to repeat from.
Roopa Vohra’s Valentine collection which is fine art translated into stunning pieces of jewelry and glossed with enchantment turned the concept of love around. With her other pieces, she has managed to notch up the bar higher, giving her customers a glimpse of antique designs in modern gold pieces.
An artist at heart, she caters to those with highly evolved tastes and who value an exquisite piece of art. Her trademark: vibrant designs bursting with a synergy of gorgeous colors and enigmatic metals; a novelty akin to the glimpse of the Taj Mahal as each shimmering piece ensconces you in its aura of poignant love.
Acknowledged as a trendsetter Roopa Vohra takes inspiration from the early years; her designs are snazzy, wearable and honeyed with quaint charm. The Thewa and Naqaashi collections reflect pure Indian artistry and craftsmanship. Subtle tones of the Mughal art form of etching, and fusing glass in 23 K gold, her necklaces and earrings are one of a kind.
The stunning sparklers available in gorgeous hues of butter yellow, pistachio green, powder blue and more evoke a feeling of reverence and the couture line Cocktail flaunts the romance of colored stone with shimmering diamonds and melting gold and showcases delicately handcrafted necklaces, earrings, pendants and rings that leaves you charmed. The exclusivity of each piece coupled with en vogue detailing and stylistic workmanship simply takes your breath away
Roopa Vohra’s Valentine collection which is fine art translated into stunning pieces of jewelry and glossed with enchantment turned the concept of love around. With her other pieces, she has managed to notch up the bar higher, giving her customers a glimpse of antique designs in modern gold pieces.
An artist at heart, she caters to those with highly evolved tastes and who value an exquisite piece of art. Her trademark: vibrant designs bursting with a synergy of gorgeous colors and enigmatic metals; a novelty akin to the glimpse of the Taj Mahal as each shimmering piece ensconces you in its aura of poignant love.
Acknowledged as a trendsetter Roopa Vohra takes inspiration from the early years; her designs are snazzy, wearable and honeyed with quaint charm. The Thewa and Naqaashi collections reflect pure Indian artistry and craftsmanship. Subtle tones of the Mughal art form of etching, and fusing glass in 23 K gold, her necklaces and earrings are one of a kind.
The stunning sparklers available in gorgeous hues of butter yellow, pistachio green, powder blue and more evoke a feeling of reverence and the couture line Cocktail flaunts the romance of colored stone with shimmering diamonds and melting gold and showcases delicately handcrafted necklaces, earrings, pendants and rings that leaves you charmed. The exclusivity of each piece coupled with en vogue detailing and stylistic workmanship simply takes your breath away
Jewellery
If you are a professional jewelry designer, have your own jewelry business or simply love fashion jewelry - this Paris shopping guide is for you. In my career as a designer of fashion jewelry, it is part of my job to shop Paris for trends.The first time I had the chance to go to Paris to shop for jewelry trends I did my research like every good traveler should. The hard part was that every shopper's guide, book, map or magazine was not strictly focused on finding the best jewelry in Paris. If I was on vacation and had a week to meander around, no problem, but with only 2 and ½ days, all alone in a brand new city- it was difficult to figure out how to make the most of the time I had.I spent that first trip making all the mistakes. I walked everywhere since taxis can add up fast! I found out that Paris is a very easy city to walk. You can hit all the great sites in one big loop.I learned how to get all over the city on the metro. I would still suggest using the subways if you are a jewelry shopper only. You can definitely get to every key area of Paris swiftly; just carry a big slouchy tote to stash your treasures in.If you are shopping for, and purchasing handbag samples, its actually more efficient to hire a driver with a van to take you around so you can stash your samples with him and keep on the move.--- but we're talking' jewelry here- so wear your comfy shoes and get your metro pass!The best way to attack Paris jewelry shopping is to plan which sections of the city you will do per day. I generally begin with the areas further from my hotel, and leave the closest one to my last day so I can walk it.I usually stay near place Vendome at a small boutique hotel called the renaissance Paris Vendome hotel, 4 rue du Mont thabor. I like to get a room on the top floor where there are windows that open onto a tiny balcony. Just enough to sit out on and sip some wine- catching the evening breeze. Please, get yourself a really clear map of Paris to bring with you. As you find the shops you like, or that I list, mark the map and the streets you walked. Believe me, the next time you go back you will be so pleased you did!
Punjabi Jewellery
Rig-Veda, the oldest book in the world, mentions ornaments worn by the gods. Rudra, a Vedic deity, is described as "shining with brilliant gold ornaments" and "wearing" an adorable, uniform necklace". According to this book the demons also had plenty of gold and jewels and the kings and sages prayed to the God for valuables of that kind. Kakshivat, the sage, prayed for a son "decorated with golden earrings and jewel necklace".No doubt jewellery making is an ancient craft that goes back to the cave man and its popular use in ancient India is well established. Jewellery in India also has had social and economic implications. It is an investment as also a saving for emergencies. The jewellery given to the bride at the time of the marriage becomes her own possession called stridhan, woman's wealth. This was in addition to the love of personal adornment inherent in the women folk. But for mortal humans it also symbolises the concept of immortality. Precious stones and precious metals, distinguished by this classification from other substance have, throughout the ages, stood for power and wealth. And this concept of power and wealth, as imbibed through ornaments, seems to have remained integrated in the psyche of the Punjabi women through the ages and remarkably so despite a stream of war and rapine that marked the life of the people of the land of five rivers with continuous vicissitudes.Ornaments, as symbol of power, wealth and feminity, and also as an investment by the Punjabi women, are found in many varieties and forms. B.H. Baden-Powell, in his book Handbook of the Manufactures and Arts of the Punjab, published in 1872, lists 97 names of ornaments used in Punjab. And this list is by no means exhaustive, because an endless variety of ornaments are used in local parlance, often only locally understood, and each little change in the size or pattern of an ornament merits a different name.The reason for the prolification of names is the multiple variations of the same piece of ornament. For instance, an ornament called sagi is a central head stud that supports the phulkari or dupatta or other headgear. It is a hemispherical boss with raised work, all over with floral patterns carved out in horizontal circles, encased in lines and dots and dashes, and a star in the centre. Now there are half-a-dozen varieties of sagi. When at the top-centre a coloured stone is fixed in it, it becomes sagi uchhi. Where several round beads are hung at the edge with silver chains, it becomes sagi motianwali. When two additional sagis are linked to the upper side they are known as sagi phul. A slight variation in its complex shape turns it into sagi chandiari. When green or blue enamelling is done on it, it becomes sagi meenawali. This ornament is also known as sisphul, chaunk or choti phul.In addition to it there are more ornaments used for the head, followed by ornaments used for the ears, the neck, the arms, the fingers, the anklets and the feet. Thus the names of traditional ornaments used in Punjab may well run into hundreds. According to the handbook of Manufactures and Arts of the Punjab, there is a complete range of traditional jewellary worn by the Men and Women of Punjab, not only for the enhancement of physical beauty but also for the retainment of the traditional Punjab culture.Athough ornaments are much influenced by changing fashions, their continuity remains alive by peridocial revivals. And this is also true of the ornaments used by Punjabi Women, for many discarded designs have recently been gaining a fresh popularity. Some designs, however, remain always in vogue.Gold has remained the most valuable as well as the most prominent metal for making ornaments. It was procured from several sources. According to Monograph on the Gold and Silver Works of the Punjab, compiled by E.D. Maclagan, and published in 1890, gold was procured from several sources. Its local source has been several of the small seasonal rivulets that descend from lower reaches of Himalaya and the Shivalik range of mountains. But the gold found in the sand of rivers has been - quite insignificant, and has had to be imported. The English, Australian and European gold was termed locally as passa and it came in the form of a lump or ingot. Panna or patra is the gold in the form of leaves. When old ornaments are melted down and sold in lump they appear in various sizes and shapes with various rates, and is known as desi passa.Several types of coins used to be melted and then made into ornaments in Punjab, such as Russian mohar, Jaipur mohar and ashrafi, Dutch ducats, Aurangzeb mohar, old mohars of Murshedabad and Farrukhebad etc. Russian gold was imported largely in the shape of five-rouble pieces, known as battis. The purest gold of all is known as kundan and is used for beating out gold leaves. It is also very generally used in setting stones, whence the seller of stones or murassakar is often known as kundansaz.The interest in getting ornaments of gold has not dwindled despite the fact that the price of the gold has gone up more than three thousand times in nearly a hundred years. One may not be inclined to believe that the prices of gold ornaments as recorded in the North Indian Notes and Queries of January 1892 were as under:Kara sada, or plain bracelet., 2 annas per tola of gold, of which 1/2 anna went to the goldsmith; karajarau, orjewelled bracelet, one rupee per tola, of which the goldsmith took half; gokharu or serrated bracelet, two annas a tola; bahi or solid tube-like armlet, 6 annas per tola, of which the goldsmith took half; paunchi or beaded wristlet, 12 annas per tola; bazuband, 12 annas a tola, of which the goldsmith got rupee one a pair.After gold, the next metal of priority was the silver. The only source of its local availability was Waziri Rupi Mines in Kulu which have now been worked for many decades. Most of the. silver, therefore, was imported from Europe into Amritsar via Bombay. Chinese silver was also imported. The coin most commonly melted for silver was the Nanakshahi or Sikh rupee, the silver of which was very commonly used for ornaments. More modern Sikh coins were known to the trade as Rajshahi and mainly represented by Patiala coinage. The Nandrami rupee from Kabul was used in the western districts, and was considered the next best silver after the Nanakshahi. Shah Shuja's and Dost Muhammad's coins were also held to be the best and were much in use in making ornaments on the frontier. Silver prepared from melted ornaments was also in use.The gold and silver work, as far as the plain form of the article required, or as far as it can receive the required pattern by merely hammering on to a die or into a cold mould, is done by the sunar or gold-smith. If the ornament has then to be ornamented with bossed patterns, it goes to the chatera, the embosser and chaser. If jewels are to be set, the enamelling at the back is done by a minakar, and then the stone is set into the places prepared by the goldsmith by the marassiakar or kundansaz, whose sole *ork consists in putting some lac into the receptacle or hollow in the gold prepared to receive the stone, putting on a tinsel or foil prepared by the bindligar and then pressing in the stone, putting an a gold rim to keep it in place.Who can resist the spell that is cast by the sparkle of a precious stone, by the mysterious glow of a pearl, or by the transcendent purity of gold . It has been said the 'purpose of ornaments is to light a kind of fire in a women's heart', it is, therefore, equally important to get ornaments made of pure metal.
Ornament Jewellery
A jewelry article for attaching ornaments has a mounting bar with a plurality of apertures, and each ornament has a protruberance extending rearwardly therefrom. The protruberance has a neck portion located thereon a distance remote from the ornament substantially equal to the thickness dimension of the bar and the bar is provided with a single spring wire extending across each aperture and held thereon for minimum deflection so that when an ornament is pressed into place, the spring wire wil firmly engage the neck portion and hold the ornament in place.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Jewellery
Tamiro (entwined) Silver Necklace Description: Tamiro (Entwined) Theme: Nga Ipo The LoversDesign: Koru twist 3D, kowhaiwhai koru patternsGive a gift with true meaning from the heart! Theis stunning Silver Necklace from The Puna Range is not just a piece of beautiful jewellery, it also make a beautiful statement as well. This beautiful silver jewellery collection has been designed by renowned Maori artist Shane Te Ruki using a variety of Maori designs and traditional Maori themes.Koru are symbolic of (Life unfolding). Koru are a symbolic representation of the unfurling fronds of ferns and similar plants. So it is seen as a sign of ?new growth? of ?new potential? and like the phoenix that rises from the ashes, a sign of continuity of life in this contingent world thus the term (life unfolding). The entwined koru are the devoted lovers whose love is new and continually growing.Find your inspiration and give a gift with true meaning and sentiment.Complete this Jewellery Set and match this Silver Necklace with the matching Silver EarringsShop online at Shop New Zealand to see more of The Puna Range and a great range of other New Zealand Jewellery.Related ProductsPuna JewelleryMaori Jewellery..
Jewellery
Puna Range - Rua (two) Silver Necklace Description: Rua (Two)Theme: Hononga ConnectionsDesign: Hanging 3D kowhaiwhai koru patternsThis stunning Silver Necklace from The Puna Range is not just a piece of beautiful jewellery, it also makes a beautiful statement as well. This beautiful silver jewellery collection has been designed by renowned Maori artist Shane Te Ruki using a variey of Maori designs and traditional Maori themes.The Koru are an iconic Maori pattern. The Koru are symbolic of (life unfolding) a sign of ?new growth? of ?new potential, and like, the phoenix that rises from the ashes, a sign of continuity of life in this contingent world thus the term (life unfolding).With this piece, one Koru reaches up and the other down, connecting the earthly and heavenly plains, both a reminder and an expression of life?s balance, and dual nature which is both worldly and spiritual.Find your inspiration and give a gift with a valuable meaning. Complete this jewelry set and match this Rua Silver Necklace with the Rua Silver EarringsThis unique silver jewellery makes a perfect gift with a touch of New Zealand. Shop online at Shop New Zealand to see more of The Puna Range and a great range of other New Zealand Jewellery.Related ProductsPuna JewelleryMaori Jewellery
Jewellery
Puna Range - Manawa (heart) Silver Necklace Description: Manawa (Heart)Theme: Nga Ipo ? The LoversDesign: The Heart, kowhaiwhai koru patternsThis stunning silver necklace from The Puna Range is not just a piece of beautiful jewellery, it make a beautiful statement as well. This beautiful silver jewellery collection has been designed by renowned Maori artist Shane Te Ruki using a variey of Maori designs and traditional Maori themes.The Koru are an iconic Maori pattern.The Koru are symbolic of (life unfolding) a sign of ?new growth? of ?new potential, and like, the phoenix that rises from the ashes, a sign of continuity of life in this contingent world thus the term (life unfolding).The use of The Koru incorporated into the heart which is a sign of love, is a statement of (abundant love), (new love). The heart has an inner heart reinforcing the ?love from the core of my being?, and the ?Heart of my heart?.This unique silver jewellery makes a perfect gift with a touch of New Zealand. Complete this Jewellery Set and match this Silver Necklace with the matching Silver EarringsThis unique silver jewellery makes a perfect gift with a touch of New Zealand. Shop online at Shop New Zealand to see more of The Puna Range and a great range of other New Zealand Jewellery.Related ProductsPuna JewelleryMaori Jewellery... Read More about the
Jewellery
Pouaka (box) Silver Necklace Description: Pouaka (Box) Theme: Hiringa LIFE and living loudDesign: Box Kowhaiwhai koru patternsGive a gift from the Heart!Puna is the Maori word for a spring and renowned Maori artist, Shane Te Ruki describes his creative process as being similar to a spring. ?The emerging waters bring life; water is the very blood of creation and creativity?.Shane Te Ruki has created The Puna Range; beautiful silver jewellery designed using a variety of Maori designs, symbols and traditional Maori themes.The Koru are iconic Maori designs.Koru are symbolic of (Life unfolding). Koru are a symbolic representation of the unfurling fronds of ferns and similar plants. So it is seen as a sign of ?new growth? of ?new potential? and like the phoenix that rises from the ashes, a sign of continuity of life in this contingent world thus the term (life unfolding). The Box like form is in contrast to the koru; the koru (life unfolding) breaks free.This unique silver jewellery makes a perfect gift with a touch of New Zealand. Find your inspiration and give a gift with true meaning and sentiment. Complete this Jewellery Set and match this Silver Necklace with the matching Silver EarringsShop online at Shop New Zealand to see more of The Puna Range and a great range of other New Zealand Jewellery.Related ProductsPuna JewelleryMaori Jewellery
Puna Jewellery
Nga Toru (the Trinity) Silver Necklace Description: Nga Toru (The Trinity)Theme: Hiringa LIFE and living loudRectangle Kowhaiwhai pattern Mango-pareGive a gift with true meaning from the heart!Puna is the Maori word for a spring and renowned Maori artist, Shane Te Ruki describes his creative process as being similar to a spring. ?The emerging waters bring life; water is the very blood of creation and creativity?.Shane Te Ruki has created The Puna range; beautiful silver jewellery designed using a variety of Maori designs, symbols and traditional Maori themes.This contemporary piece combines Mango-pare the traditional symbol of strength, tenacity of life and unrelenting determination, vigor and wealth with the telling of three phases of creation and life.The three phases of creation and life begin with ?Te Kore? the period of untapped potential and the innocence and promise of the unborn child. ?Te-Po? is the age of dreams, aspirations and learning and the living steps we take in this life. ?Te Ao? is the world of light where reality manifests and is marked by the end of the earthly journey and the beginning of the next.Give a gift that comes from the heart with true meaning and sentiment. Complete this Jewellery Set and match this Silver Necklace with the matching Silver Earrings.This unique silver jewellery makes a perfect gift with a touch of New Zealand. Shop online at Shop New Zealand to see more of The Puna Range and a great range of other New Zealand Jewellery.Related ProductsPuna JewelleryMaori Jewellery...
Jewellery
The Puna Range of unique silver jewellery is proudly made in New Zealand and created by renowned Maori artist Shane Te Ruki.
Puna is the Maori word for a Spring, from which earth bound waters escape to this world above. The emerging waters bring life; water is the very blood of creation and creativity.
In much the same way, The Puna Range has been created. Each piece of The Puna Range emerged from within me, as a fusion of notions, concepts and messages, to be released and revealed in new forms.
See this beautiful and meaningful range of New Zealand made Jewellery online here at The Jewelry Store.
Puna is the Maori word for a Spring, from which earth bound waters escape to this world above. The emerging waters bring life; water is the very blood of creation and creativity.
In much the same way, The Puna Range has been created. Each piece of The Puna Range emerged from within me, as a fusion of notions, concepts and messages, to be released and revealed in new forms.
See this beautiful and meaningful range of New Zealand made Jewellery online here at The Jewelry Store.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Jewellery of Karnataka
A striking piece of jewellery worn in Karnataka is called the tulunad, which is a cast-brass two-part belt, having its top edged with cobra heads with long-drawn-out hoods and has a cobra clutch at front. Jewellery of Karnataka is infused with religious connotations. A cast-brass finger ring is worn by Shiva Lingayat devotees depicting God Shiva's vehicle, the bull Nandini, who wears an amulet containing a lingam. Female Lingayat Virashiva or lay persons (linga banajiga) wear silver lingam caskets or ayigalu, shaped in the form of an abstracted egg.The silver lingam caskets or Gundgurdgi lingam caskets are worn on the left arm or by a Lingayat Jangam priest under a cloth cap on the head. These are often pot shaped and each contains a movable jangama or lingam. Lingayat women wear a gold fertility necklace for obtaining male offspring that consists of thirty pendants set in gold, each with a symbolic meaning connected with fertility. Gemstone like black and red coral are set onto the chain.. For the worship of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, the Lingayats use a specifically designed polychrome wood necklace.Children mainly wear protective tiger-claw amulets or vyaghranakhas pendants set in gold and suspended on a gold chain. Belts of bells around their hips are also worn to frighten away evil spirits. The other ornaments worn by children are bell-anklets also called painjani and a silver amulet box on a chain that has a central figure of a makara or kirtimukha flanked by birds and bands of floral creepers. Flat, repoussé decorated silver hair ornaments called jadaibillai or phirkichephul, backed with copper spirals (kambi suriyulla) are used in hair braids or in buns to hold them in place. Gold ear-studs with red stones and pearls are also common amongst the woman folk of this region. Kamardani or silver loop-in-loop belt which has a hooked closing is another popular piece of jewellery in this region. The silver ankle/ foot/ toe ornaments worn by the bride at a Coorgi marriage ceremony are popular among the people of Kodagu or Coorg.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Jewellery
Jaipurwala.com is the leading enterprise engaged as manufacturer and exporter of racial range of lac bangles, indian bangles, lac jewellery, lac gift box, lac articles and other different types of bangles for the last four years. Jaipurwala.com has been bangles manufacturing in ground-breaking designs and colors in accordance to the changing fashion trends. Our company recognized as a brand to reckon with superior quality and customer satisfaction.
We have collects a unique collection of Lac bangles which carries a touch of class and richness. In this collection surely every each product is exclusive and depicts the unique craftsmanship. We include wide range of variety of lac bangles. These Lac Bangles are the most hunted after items among the fashion aware generation of today. The valuable and lavishing Bangles are elegantly carved and finished with utmost attention on each detail. Jaipurwala.com also famous for manufacture customized Lac Bangles.
Our product range of Lac Bangles jewellery comes in designs which will appeal to you. Our company offers a huge range of Bangles which includes Lac Bangles, Designer Lac Bangles, and lac bangle handicraft. A symbol of femininity, these collections of lac bangles are beautiful colored that makes them an expert delight which comes in variety of finishes and styles.
We have collects a unique collection of Lac bangles which carries a touch of class and richness. In this collection surely every each product is exclusive and depicts the unique craftsmanship. We include wide range of variety of lac bangles. These Lac Bangles are the most hunted after items among the fashion aware generation of today. The valuable and lavishing Bangles are elegantly carved and finished with utmost attention on each detail. Jaipurwala.com also famous for manufacture customized Lac Bangles.
Our product range of Lac Bangles jewellery comes in designs which will appeal to you. Our company offers a huge range of Bangles which includes Lac Bangles, Designer Lac Bangles, and lac bangle handicraft. A symbol of femininity, these collections of lac bangles are beautiful colored that makes them an expert delight which comes in variety of finishes and styles.
Jewellery
Jewelry has always been essential to people who loves to accessorize. One special piece can make such a difference in the presentation of same outfit. There are so many different variations and handmade jewelry stands out because of its uniqueness. Beaded, carved, filigreed, engraved, sequined, knitted, and painted, various techniques for handicraft arts have been continually developed in all cultures throughout time, which certainly expand the variety of handmade jewelry.
Handmade jewelry makers utilize many types of metals and gemstones in their work, such as brass, copper, silver, gold; and crystal, quartz, turquoise, coral and amethyst. Many contemporary jewelry artists make use of even more diverse materials such as glass beads, fabric, acrylic as well as organic /natural material such as wood, leather, shell, hemp, raffia grass, animal horns, bones and even teeth. In fact jewelry made of these materials gains more and more in popularity.
Compare to mass-produced jewelry, handmade jewelry involves much more with culture, humanity and history. Most handmade jewelry has a certain ethnic flair. Or I should say, most culture has their own unique handmade tribal jewelry. Miao, for instance, an ethnic group at South West China, is well-known for their amazing women's 20+ kg silver costume jewelry set as well as their extraordinary craftsmanship on silver jewelry making. Although Miao silver (a combination of nickel and copper) is utilized as a more affordable alternative nowadays, the popularity of Miao handmade hair-sticks and accessories is still increasing because of their varied and creative designs. Tibetan handmade jewelry, on the other hand, featured bold styles and dramatic colors. The styles are versatile enough for you to find "go anywhere" pieces to wear with anything from jeans to evening dress. Thanks to the convenience of internet, I have collected native American cuffs, African leather necklace, Tibetan style beaded turquoise and coral bracelets, Miao hair jewelry sets, Indian Kundan necklace and earrings, and oriental carved lacquer and Cloisonn hair-sticks, with some simple clicks of mouse. My biggest surprise was a piece of one-of-an-kind refractory porcelain hair-stick. The exquisitely handmade flowers look so real and almost too pretty to wear.
Finding a gift for loved ones or special events such as bridal shower is never easy. If you want to make an unforgettable present, you might want to consider handmade jewelry. My friend Maggie, a pretty and smart girl, bought dozens of Tibetan silver cuffs studded with gemstones for her bridal shower. "How many times will a woman want to wear identical stuff as somebody else's?" She said. How true! Her gift turned out to be a "bomb" on that day!
Price is always the concern. The price for handmade jewelry varies in a large range depending on the material, craftsmanship and sometimes brands. The most important thing to remember when shopping for handmade jewelry is that you are looking for uniqueness. It does not have to expensive or made of precious material. It is the style that catches you and others eyes. Also, while the internet made it easy for us to shop at home, it also provides means for us to compare styles and prices, as well as searching for best deals such as free shipping, on-sale and coupons.
Whether you are looking for something to accent a dress for the special occasion or unusual gifts for the loved one, try handmade jewelry and make the memory timeless
Handmade jewelry makers utilize many types of metals and gemstones in their work, such as brass, copper, silver, gold; and crystal, quartz, turquoise, coral and amethyst. Many contemporary jewelry artists make use of even more diverse materials such as glass beads, fabric, acrylic as well as organic /natural material such as wood, leather, shell, hemp, raffia grass, animal horns, bones and even teeth. In fact jewelry made of these materials gains more and more in popularity.
Compare to mass-produced jewelry, handmade jewelry involves much more with culture, humanity and history. Most handmade jewelry has a certain ethnic flair. Or I should say, most culture has their own unique handmade tribal jewelry. Miao, for instance, an ethnic group at South West China, is well-known for their amazing women's 20+ kg silver costume jewelry set as well as their extraordinary craftsmanship on silver jewelry making. Although Miao silver (a combination of nickel and copper) is utilized as a more affordable alternative nowadays, the popularity of Miao handmade hair-sticks and accessories is still increasing because of their varied and creative designs. Tibetan handmade jewelry, on the other hand, featured bold styles and dramatic colors. The styles are versatile enough for you to find "go anywhere" pieces to wear with anything from jeans to evening dress. Thanks to the convenience of internet, I have collected native American cuffs, African leather necklace, Tibetan style beaded turquoise and coral bracelets, Miao hair jewelry sets, Indian Kundan necklace and earrings, and oriental carved lacquer and Cloisonn hair-sticks, with some simple clicks of mouse. My biggest surprise was a piece of one-of-an-kind refractory porcelain hair-stick. The exquisitely handmade flowers look so real and almost too pretty to wear.
Finding a gift for loved ones or special events such as bridal shower is never easy. If you want to make an unforgettable present, you might want to consider handmade jewelry. My friend Maggie, a pretty and smart girl, bought dozens of Tibetan silver cuffs studded with gemstones for her bridal shower. "How many times will a woman want to wear identical stuff as somebody else's?" She said. How true! Her gift turned out to be a "bomb" on that day!
Price is always the concern. The price for handmade jewelry varies in a large range depending on the material, craftsmanship and sometimes brands. The most important thing to remember when shopping for handmade jewelry is that you are looking for uniqueness. It does not have to expensive or made of precious material. It is the style that catches you and others eyes. Also, while the internet made it easy for us to shop at home, it also provides means for us to compare styles and prices, as well as searching for best deals such as free shipping, on-sale and coupons.
Whether you are looking for something to accent a dress for the special occasion or unusual gifts for the loved one, try handmade jewelry and make the memory timeless
Jewellery
Jewelry has the ability to add beauty and style to you and whatever ensemble you are wearing. Whether it is costume jewelry or fine jewelry it is the wearer's delight as it further highlights their personality with the look that it adds to your ensemble.
Fine jewelry is much more about defining your fashion statement. So, whether you are wearing an ensemble that is classic or stylish, it is simply your choice to what type of accessory you add to make it completes. Ornaments are made out of a variety of materials from diamonds to emeralds to gold to silver. In fact, the ornament you choose to wear can be designed out of the purest silver, precious stones, pearls, or gold.
The value of the metal used in designing your article of adornment will make a difference between the cheap costume variety and the fine variety. So, the price of the adornment you choose mainly depends on the material that has been used to make it. Also, as for the style that you want to portray, you can choose the type of jewels that will set your particular style to the hilt. As for your requirements, there are all types of fine costume adornments as well as fine ornaments available in whatever design you can imagine.
Thankfully, these accessories come in a wide array of styles and designs, as well as color options. You can wear the most traditional to the latest designs available. All types of finery are available in the market these days, whether it be bracelets, earrings, bangles, anklets, or even belly button rings, it is all there available on the market for your choosing.
There is an amount of charisma you can experience in wearing fine jewelry. It has the ability to add elegance to your persona. There are a variety of contemporary items to better serve your interest if you are into the more contemporary. However, if you enjoy antiques, then there is a wide selection available on the market today for adding that royal touch to your style and outfit for you to choose from. In fact, there are many different types of earrings, bracelets, and necklaces that are made in the antique style that are all available with the jewelers in all areas.
In the fat Indian weddings, there is a huge sum of money that is spent in purchasing finery to go with the wedding costume, but you can never be sure whether this will be of any use further. In that case, costume jewelry comes as the easy way out for those brides to be that cannot afford the more expensive fine variety, which is also available to them.
You can even go for antique pieces, which fortunately comes at an affordable price as well. An antique piece has its very own unique style, because most of the time it has been hand crafted as per the design. Indian adornments are antique in so many ways, because they add weight to your dressing and a beautiful range of Indian antique finery is available, which consists of antique as well as modern designs
Fine jewelry is much more about defining your fashion statement. So, whether you are wearing an ensemble that is classic or stylish, it is simply your choice to what type of accessory you add to make it completes. Ornaments are made out of a variety of materials from diamonds to emeralds to gold to silver. In fact, the ornament you choose to wear can be designed out of the purest silver, precious stones, pearls, or gold.
The value of the metal used in designing your article of adornment will make a difference between the cheap costume variety and the fine variety. So, the price of the adornment you choose mainly depends on the material that has been used to make it. Also, as for the style that you want to portray, you can choose the type of jewels that will set your particular style to the hilt. As for your requirements, there are all types of fine costume adornments as well as fine ornaments available in whatever design you can imagine.
Thankfully, these accessories come in a wide array of styles and designs, as well as color options. You can wear the most traditional to the latest designs available. All types of finery are available in the market these days, whether it be bracelets, earrings, bangles, anklets, or even belly button rings, it is all there available on the market for your choosing.
There is an amount of charisma you can experience in wearing fine jewelry. It has the ability to add elegance to your persona. There are a variety of contemporary items to better serve your interest if you are into the more contemporary. However, if you enjoy antiques, then there is a wide selection available on the market today for adding that royal touch to your style and outfit for you to choose from. In fact, there are many different types of earrings, bracelets, and necklaces that are made in the antique style that are all available with the jewelers in all areas.
In the fat Indian weddings, there is a huge sum of money that is spent in purchasing finery to go with the wedding costume, but you can never be sure whether this will be of any use further. In that case, costume jewelry comes as the easy way out for those brides to be that cannot afford the more expensive fine variety, which is also available to them.
You can even go for antique pieces, which fortunately comes at an affordable price as well. An antique piece has its very own unique style, because most of the time it has been hand crafted as per the design. Indian adornments are antique in so many ways, because they add weight to your dressing and a beautiful range of Indian antique finery is available, which consists of antique as well as modern designs
Monday, February 9, 2009
Jewellery
Beaded jewelry are forever popular, whether as a stand-alone or combined with other metals and stones. It is unrestrained by terms like value and rarity and can be fashioned to form any ornament. The best thing about beaded jewelry is that it never goes out of fashion.Our passion is to create precious Beaded jewelry for every woman who wants something beautiful, something to cherish and something that is exclusively hers. Inspired by the Nature, each of our beaded jeweler a creations is made to make you look beautiful and feel very special. We also specialize in personal all kinds of Indian fashion jewelry, handbags & Purses to stimulate your senses. We wholesale beaded jewelry like beaded necklaces, beaded heavy necklaces, beaded bangles, beaded earrings. Over 2500 designs of beaded jewelry are currently available in our wholesale store. We also wholesale Sarees without which Beaded jewelry are of no use. Find matching Saris, Indian Sari, Bridal Sari, Wedding Sari, Fancy Sari, Bollywoo Sari, Lehnga Choli, Salwar Kameez etc. from our Online store.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Jewellery
As I write gold is worth about $630 US an ounce. Since August 2005 the price of gold has risen from $447 US which represents a whopping 43% increase.
So yes, your jewellery must be worth a little more if it is made of gold. Silver too has increased a good deal. However, don’t forget that the gold in your jewellery is made from an alloy of gold. That means that other, usually less costly metals, are mixed in with the pure gold to make its carat.
Chinese people like to buy jewellery made from 24 carat gold and some folks from the Arabic counties prefer 22 carat gold, but the rest of the world likes 9 carat which is the most used in Australia and a good deal in England, 14 carat and 18 carat which is used in the USA and Europe.
Let’s have a look at the factors that are important to the price of your jewellery. If your gold jewellery is made from nine carat yellow gold then it only has 37.5 percent gold in it, if it is 14 carat then it only has 58.5 percent real gold in it.
Now understand that an average ladies ring might have 2.5 grams of gold in it and at current retail rates that gold content might be worth say, $30 per gram. So if gold went up a further 50% then the gold in your ring won’t go up 50% because it is an alloy and not pure gold, and there is only a small bit of gold in the ring so your $600 ring might be worth another $30 or so.
Jewellery is priced on not just the cost of the gold content and the cost of even the precious stones but also the difficulty to manufacture it, and the design and the brand name of the manufacturer.
So yes, your jewellery must be worth a little more if it is made of gold. Silver too has increased a good deal. However, don’t forget that the gold in your jewellery is made from an alloy of gold. That means that other, usually less costly metals, are mixed in with the pure gold to make its carat.
Chinese people like to buy jewellery made from 24 carat gold and some folks from the Arabic counties prefer 22 carat gold, but the rest of the world likes 9 carat which is the most used in Australia and a good deal in England, 14 carat and 18 carat which is used in the USA and Europe.
Let’s have a look at the factors that are important to the price of your jewellery. If your gold jewellery is made from nine carat yellow gold then it only has 37.5 percent gold in it, if it is 14 carat then it only has 58.5 percent real gold in it.
Now understand that an average ladies ring might have 2.5 grams of gold in it and at current retail rates that gold content might be worth say, $30 per gram. So if gold went up a further 50% then the gold in your ring won’t go up 50% because it is an alloy and not pure gold, and there is only a small bit of gold in the ring so your $600 ring might be worth another $30 or so.
Jewellery is priced on not just the cost of the gold content and the cost of even the precious stones but also the difficulty to manufacture it, and the design and the brand name of the manufacturer.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Jewellery
Jewellery holds paramount importance in Indian history and today when time has evolved, trends have changed and technology has taken over the fashion arena, jewellery still forms an integral part of women's lifestyle. We are manufacturers, suppliers and exporters of Womens Fashion Jewellery.Exemplary designs, precious stones and the adroit craftsmanship of Indian designers and artisans have given the birth to new line of Indian fashion jewellery which is elegant, captivating and defines attitude of individuals to make a ravishing statement in the world of fashion jewellery.
Gems & Jewellery
The Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council held a very well attended press conference at the Intercontinental Hotel at Mumbai on December 16,’08 to voice the industry’s fears about a recession which is deepening every day in the industry and to plead for government’s assistance for interim relief and to help avoid 25%-30% layoffs in the jewellery trade. The meeting was chaired by Vasant Mehta, chairman, GJEPC and was presided over by Sanjay Kothari, convenor, promotion, marketing, business development committee, Anoop Zaveri, member, IIJS sub-committee, Bakul Mehta, convenor, diamond panel committee and Sabyasachi Ray, executive director of GJEPC.
At the press conference Mehta was candid about the bleak prospects before the jewellery trade. “The Indian jewellery industry is passing through a difficult time due to the financial collapse of America. Due to the steep decline in business, we decided to call a press conference and explain the state of the industry. We don’t see any light from anywhere around the world. There has been only 3% growth from April ’08-Nov.’08,” he said without mincing any words. The US is the world’s largest jewellery market which before the recession consumed 50% of the world’s jewellery.
The Indian jewellery industry is India’s leading foreign exchange earner which employs over 5 million people and whose economic benefits reach out to over 25 million people. The trade also accounts for 13.45% of the country’s total exports. The economic slowdown forced the industry to lay off 65,000 workers between August and October ’08 and cut back production by over 25% with exports dipping by 34.25%. “We realized one and half years ago that the American market was saturated,” declared Mehta. “We are now not asking for a bail-out from the government, but just for help in this crisis.”
The GJEPC has appealed to the government that status holders should be allowed to import directly and sell gold to exporters, increase of rupee subvention from 2% to 4% ,availability of adequate dollar credit lines by RBI and releasing of dollars from the government’s dollar reserves as credits to stave off the present crisis in the industry. The Council has placed these proposals before the ministry of commerce and hopes for immediate remedial measures.
Mehta mentioned that the industry has also faced banking problems “as foreign exchange in terms of dollars have not been easily available to do business for the last one and a half years. This and the erratic supply of gold have been major constraints.” Mehta explained that the gold artisans of smaller cities have often not had enough gold and this has led to delays in orders, with the Middle East, in particular, complaining about erratic supply. The Council has also asked for the import restriction on worked coral to be removed, a proposal which the environment ministry has not addressed for a long time. Kothari pointed out that “because of such problems we are not able to compete with the coloured stone industry of Thailand.”
GJEPC has initiated several measures to help a deeply troubled industry. Kothari disclosed that a delegation has been sent to Russia and the CIS states to explore business opportunities, a delegation will be sent to the Middle East in the first or second week of January ’09 and DTC, the US and Israel will be promoting diamonds strongly. Further, a’Made in India’ brand will be launched in the Middle East and the domestic market will be promoted energetically. Mehta also revealed that the Council has asked the government for permission to sell 25% of the export goods in the domestic market and are waiting for the notification to this effect to be issued.
Mehta concluded that the Council believes that the industry can bounce back from this unprecedented crisis in the next six months
At the press conference Mehta was candid about the bleak prospects before the jewellery trade. “The Indian jewellery industry is passing through a difficult time due to the financial collapse of America. Due to the steep decline in business, we decided to call a press conference and explain the state of the industry. We don’t see any light from anywhere around the world. There has been only 3% growth from April ’08-Nov.’08,” he said without mincing any words. The US is the world’s largest jewellery market which before the recession consumed 50% of the world’s jewellery.
The Indian jewellery industry is India’s leading foreign exchange earner which employs over 5 million people and whose economic benefits reach out to over 25 million people. The trade also accounts for 13.45% of the country’s total exports. The economic slowdown forced the industry to lay off 65,000 workers between August and October ’08 and cut back production by over 25% with exports dipping by 34.25%. “We realized one and half years ago that the American market was saturated,” declared Mehta. “We are now not asking for a bail-out from the government, but just for help in this crisis.”
The GJEPC has appealed to the government that status holders should be allowed to import directly and sell gold to exporters, increase of rupee subvention from 2% to 4% ,availability of adequate dollar credit lines by RBI and releasing of dollars from the government’s dollar reserves as credits to stave off the present crisis in the industry. The Council has placed these proposals before the ministry of commerce and hopes for immediate remedial measures.
Mehta mentioned that the industry has also faced banking problems “as foreign exchange in terms of dollars have not been easily available to do business for the last one and a half years. This and the erratic supply of gold have been major constraints.” Mehta explained that the gold artisans of smaller cities have often not had enough gold and this has led to delays in orders, with the Middle East, in particular, complaining about erratic supply. The Council has also asked for the import restriction on worked coral to be removed, a proposal which the environment ministry has not addressed for a long time. Kothari pointed out that “because of such problems we are not able to compete with the coloured stone industry of Thailand.”
GJEPC has initiated several measures to help a deeply troubled industry. Kothari disclosed that a delegation has been sent to Russia and the CIS states to explore business opportunities, a delegation will be sent to the Middle East in the first or second week of January ’09 and DTC, the US and Israel will be promoting diamonds strongly. Further, a’Made in India’ brand will be launched in the Middle East and the domestic market will be promoted energetically. Mehta also revealed that the Council has asked the government for permission to sell 25% of the export goods in the domestic market and are waiting for the notification to this effect to be issued.
Mehta concluded that the Council believes that the industry can bounce back from this unprecedented crisis in the next six months
Jewellery
Jewellery firm Shrenuj & Company is in talks with European designers to introduce its high-end handbags under the luxury jewellery brand Arisia.
Pranava Bhargava, Group General Manager (marketing), said, " We are in talks with leading European design houses for developing watches and handbags. The company might take the joint venture mode or co-branding initiatives after evaluating the value propositions."
The Rs 900 crore (Rs 9 billion) Shrenuj acquired Diamond Trading Corporation's 50 per cent stake in Arisia Jewellery, a company promoting the solitaire diamond jewellery brand Arisia. It is focusing on the luxury market with plans to launch diamond studded handbags, watches and mobile phones under the Arisia brand.
Bhargava said the entry in West Asia is a natural extension due to the presence of Indian diaspora. BRIC nations - Brazil, Russia, India and China - are emerging as lucrative markets.
Shrenuj will make the Chinese debut with Joliesse, a Hong Kong-based jewellery chain, which it acquired in 2003. It plans to open two stores in China and 18 outlets in Hong Kong in the next two years. Going forward, the company expects one-third of its revenues to come from the jewellery branding and retailing.
Asitava Sen, Vice President, retail and consumer goods of Technopak Advisors (a consulting firm), said, "There is an opportunity to take Indian jewellery brands globally from the ethnic point of view. Indian jewellery has very niche designs and skill craftsmanship."
He added managing other products such as shoes, belts and wallets may be a challenge as they are well accepted as western designs. Gitanjali Gems [Get Quote] is also planning to extend its recently acquired premium jewellery brand Nakshatra into other lifestyle products. The Indian companies seem to be readying for bigger play in the luxury and premium lifestyle space, dominated by international labels such as Gucci and LVMH.
Anuj Rakyan, Vice President, Gitanjali Gems (jewellery division), said, "Nakashtra will be extended into other categories such as handbags, watches and cosmetics. We intend to position Nakashtra to the brands such as Gucci and LVMH."
Gitanjali estimates Nakshatra to garner sales revenues worth Rs 1000 crore (Rs 10 billion) in the next five years. Apart from brand extensions, Indian jewellery companies are also eyeing their potential in the overseas market. Raykyan said, "The company is in talks with partners to launch outlets in West Asia, the UK, Singapore and South Africa."
Shrenuj also plans to take Arisia in West Asia, Eastern Europe and Chinese market.
The lack of luxury retail space might be a hindrance in the domestic retail expansion. Gitanjali plans to open 200 exclusive chains of Nakshatra stores, while Shrenuj is banking on the network of existing jewellers, hotels and high-end multi-brand stores in the initial phase.
According to a report by Technopak Advisors on the changing retail landscape in India, the jewellery and watches market is pegged at $13.7 billion (Rs 53,841 crore). It is expected to register a 12 per cent growth by 2012, touching $23.6 billion (Rs 92, 741 crore).
Shrenuj will make the Chinese debut with Hong Kong-based jewellery chain Joliesse. It plans to open two stores in China and 18 outlets in Hong Kong in the next two years
Pranava Bhargava, Group General Manager (marketing), said, " We are in talks with leading European design houses for developing watches and handbags. The company might take the joint venture mode or co-branding initiatives after evaluating the value propositions."
The Rs 900 crore (Rs 9 billion) Shrenuj acquired Diamond Trading Corporation's 50 per cent stake in Arisia Jewellery, a company promoting the solitaire diamond jewellery brand Arisia. It is focusing on the luxury market with plans to launch diamond studded handbags, watches and mobile phones under the Arisia brand.
Bhargava said the entry in West Asia is a natural extension due to the presence of Indian diaspora. BRIC nations - Brazil, Russia, India and China - are emerging as lucrative markets.
Shrenuj will make the Chinese debut with Joliesse, a Hong Kong-based jewellery chain, which it acquired in 2003. It plans to open two stores in China and 18 outlets in Hong Kong in the next two years. Going forward, the company expects one-third of its revenues to come from the jewellery branding and retailing.
Asitava Sen, Vice President, retail and consumer goods of Technopak Advisors (a consulting firm), said, "There is an opportunity to take Indian jewellery brands globally from the ethnic point of view. Indian jewellery has very niche designs and skill craftsmanship."
He added managing other products such as shoes, belts and wallets may be a challenge as they are well accepted as western designs. Gitanjali Gems [Get Quote] is also planning to extend its recently acquired premium jewellery brand Nakshatra into other lifestyle products. The Indian companies seem to be readying for bigger play in the luxury and premium lifestyle space, dominated by international labels such as Gucci and LVMH.
Anuj Rakyan, Vice President, Gitanjali Gems (jewellery division), said, "Nakashtra will be extended into other categories such as handbags, watches and cosmetics. We intend to position Nakashtra to the brands such as Gucci and LVMH."
Gitanjali estimates Nakshatra to garner sales revenues worth Rs 1000 crore (Rs 10 billion) in the next five years. Apart from brand extensions, Indian jewellery companies are also eyeing their potential in the overseas market. Raykyan said, "The company is in talks with partners to launch outlets in West Asia, the UK, Singapore and South Africa."
Shrenuj also plans to take Arisia in West Asia, Eastern Europe and Chinese market.
The lack of luxury retail space might be a hindrance in the domestic retail expansion. Gitanjali plans to open 200 exclusive chains of Nakshatra stores, while Shrenuj is banking on the network of existing jewellers, hotels and high-end multi-brand stores in the initial phase.
According to a report by Technopak Advisors on the changing retail landscape in India, the jewellery and watches market is pegged at $13.7 billion (Rs 53,841 crore). It is expected to register a 12 per cent growth by 2012, touching $23.6 billion (Rs 92, 741 crore).
Shrenuj will make the Chinese debut with Hong Kong-based jewellery chain Joliesse. It plans to open two stores in China and 18 outlets in Hong Kong in the next two years
Jewellery
Jewelry that is exotic, indomitable and radiant reveals a saga of character in its every cut. The jewelry shop at Indiatimes Shopping brings to you the finest range of bedazzling diamond jewelry, intricate gold jewelry, precious gemstones Jewelry traditional Indian jewelry, sterling silver jewelry, affordable costume jewelry, sparkling pearl jewelry, fashion jewelry, semi-precious gems jewelry, bridal jewelry and zodiac jewelry. Buy ethnic jewelry designs which beautifully blend the diverse cultures of India and also contemporary jewelry designs that are in tune with the times. And get enchanted with our discounted gold & diamond jewellery prices. We offer a spectacular jewelry buying experience that is unmatched both in terms of choice and value. With jewelers and jewelry brands from all corners of India and abroad, Indiatimes shopping offers a mind-blowing selection of dazzling jewelry. Browse through an extensive range of diamond jewelry only at Indiatimes Shopping where we bring a wide range of leading brands like Gilli, Asmi, Sangini Diamonds, Bella, Ddamas, Revv, Lucera, Nakshatra, Surat Diamond jewelry, Adora jewelry . Our online jewellery shop offers traditional bridal jewellery sets, exquisite jewellery earrings, diamond jewellery rings, anniversary & wedding rings, diamond earrings, diamond jewellery necklaces, jewellery bangles, jewellery bracelets, pendants, jewellery sets, kundan necklaces, gold & silver coins. You can simply select and send exquisite gold & certified diamond jewelry to India. Choose from the classic Indian diamond mangalsutras or modern day trendy gemstone necklaces. Order now, and gift your close ties a timeless collection of diamonds! So, wait no more and make the priceless diamonds yours, which you and your loved ones will cherish forever!!
Jewellery
Man's desire to decorate himself with objects of nature like feathers, seeds, and cowrie shells was the initial stage in the development of jewellery. The tribals took great pains to collect these items for their personal decorations. With the advent of the agrarian society, jewellery became associated with the status of a man in society and became a form of savings. In India, jewellery is counted as the wealth of a woman and she inherits it from her father or her husband as gift.
Jewellery is mostly associated with married woman in Indian society and a widow hardly displays any form of jewellery.
A special community of people called Sonars in India make the jewels. They are attached to specific groups and castes of people. Most of the jewellery items worn by Indian women are the same but for some regional influences.
Lambadi woman with traditional ornaments
Nose ring
Nose ornaments are widely used throughout India. Different shapes and designs are involved, as also different materials are used in its making. Gold, silver, pearls and a variety of precious stones are used.
The nose ornament took shape only in the 10 the century, with the arrival of the Arab invaders. It is of different types like the simple Lavang, clove, to Phuli, the elaborately worked stud, or Nath the nose ring worn in the right nostril and the Bulli the ring worn in the center just over the lips.
Ear ring
Tikka, worn on the forehead
Bore is a head ornament, which is placed at the parting of the hairs. It is also called as Boldra in Rajasthan, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh. The tikka is a round pendant at the end of a long chain and which falls on the forehead.
It is also commonly used throughout India. Bengal has a range of hair jewels, which decorate the hair tied as a bun at the back. In South India a variety of ornaments are available for decorating the loose plait.
A traditional Necklace
For the neck there are scores of chains, necklaces, and chokers available. Guluband is made of beads or rectangular pieces of metals strung together with the help of threads. Then there is the longer Kanthi. Under this can be worn a silver chain or a necklace of beads.
Golden Kadas
To adorn the hands there are of course a variety of rings from the cheap silver items to diamond rings, which are worth a fortune. The top of the hand can be adorned with the hathpool or Rattan Chowk. For the wrist there are the Karda, the Paunchi, the Gajira and the Chuda and these all together make up the bracelet category. Bracelets come in cheap mixed metal varieties to diamond studded gold ones. Above the elbow women wear the Bazoo, the Joshan and the Bank.
Armlet of silver
Anklet
For the hips women wear a series of chain item called the Kandora.
Anklets for the toes come in different models of heavy metals and silver. The delicately worked paizebs ending in tinkling silver hollow bells is really a good piece to adorn oneself with. The bichua or scorpion ring for the toe is a symbol for married women.
Designs and the mode of techniques vary from region to region and the material used depends upon the status of the wearer in the society. Ornaments range from the simple metal collections to the silver ones, mixed metals, gold, diamond and platinum.
Belly chains
Regional Jewellery
The Tribals of Assam patronize silver jewellery but the others use mostly gold items. The patterns are extremely beautiful and they are finely polished. The Thuria earring, which has a most distinctive design of its own in the form of a lotus with a heavy stem, is a common item. It is made of gold and studded with rubies. Necklaces and pendants of other neighboring regions are also common here.
In West Bengal, silver and gold jewellery are made. Delicate filigree works are practiced here. Tara Kanta and Pan Kanta are some of the finest pieces of jewellery, which are meant for the hair. The Tara Kantas are pins made in the form of flowers and stars. The Pan Kanta is a betel leaf ornament, which is fixed at the center of the hair bun.
In Orissa, the dominant technique employed is that of granulation and filigree. Both gold and silver are patronized. Mainly arm jewels, necklaces, nose rings and anklets are prepared. Finest designs are available for the nose rings. Maurpankhi, one of the designs is shaped like a peacock with open feathers and the whole thing is prepared according to the granulation and filigree technique. Sampangi is another nose ring, which is of the stylized pagoda type from which hangs delicately worked chains each ending in a small pipal leaf. Another peculiar jewel item of this area is the Bank worn on the forearm. This is formed of stiff chains brought together by adjustable links of flowers. Sambalpur is famous for brass jewellery. Delicately worked bangles in different patterns are available but they need regular polishing.
Punjab has hair ornaments that are different from the other parts of the country. Here the Tikka is flat and circular with small pendants hanging in the front of the Tikka.
In the Kulu region, most of the items are made in Hoshiarpur, which has its own style. The Pipal Patra made out of silver pipal leaves fastened to an enameled piece of silver is commonly worn by the women folk of this area. Here necklaces are formed out of large metal plates, which are engraved with traditional designs and filled with green and yellow enamel. The nose ornaments of this area are highly specialized. The large sized nath and boulak designs of single leaf are specials of this region.
Kashmir differs a lot from the other regions in jewellery. The most important designs here are for the ear ornaments. These are known as Kan Balle or Jhumka normally worn by the Muslim women on both the sides of their head. Then comes the common Zululand , a neck jewel item. Engraving and cut works are the important techniques used here.
In South India, wearing of silver jewellery is mostly associated with the tribals and the rest resort to gold items only. The Chettinad (in Tamilnadu) jewellery made of uncut rubies is one of the finest. The Addigai is an important neck item also made of uncut rubies set in gold. Mangai Malai, a long necklace made of mango shaped pieces studded with uncut rubies and diamonds is another specialty of this area. Nowadays diamond jewellery has caught the fancy of the South Indian women. The Thalli, a necklace, which is worn during marriage, also has various patterns according to the community of the couple.
Kerala has a rich variety of gold designs but precious stones are very rarely used. Necklaces are available in various shapes and designs. The Garuda necklace is famous here.
North India is famous for a special form of jewellery called meenakari combined with the Kundan technique. Very delicate stuff are developed using these techniques. First, a basic form of the jewellery is created with hollow spaces allowed for the stones to be inserted. Then the Meenakar fills it with lac and engraves delicate designs on it. Lines are engraved to hold different colors. First the colors, which require the maximum temperature, are filled in and fired. Then the other colors are applied and fired until both the sides are enameled properly. Then the Kundan worker places the stones in their respective area. The piece is then polished with a leather cloth. Different types of jewel items are prepared by this method and Jaipur is the main center specialized in this technique. This art is also practiced in Delhi, Lucknow and Varanasi.
Top
METALWARE
In India, the mastery over the mining, smelting and working of metals developed from ancient civilizations. The ancient Indians used to make weapons of defence from the available metals. Over the years the availability of metals increased and shaped vessels were developed gradually for personal kitchen purposes apart from tools and items of armor.
The commonest objects of metal in India are the water vessels. It is the skill of a Metal Smith who makes a water pitcher with a narrow neck and rounded contours to match the curvaceous form of the women folk! The North Indian pitchers have a flat base and a top, which rises, at an angle from the base. The Rajasthani pitcher on the other hand is rounded with a small mouth and a narrow neck, which prevents any spillage of water in the water-thirst desert regions.
Another common usage of metal in India is for the temple bells. The bells of India are noted for their depth and purity of tone and also for their designs and shapes. They are made of bell metal, which is considered to be the purest of all metals. It is nowadays also used for making utensils and other ritual vessels.
Water pitchers from Maharastra
Indians are not much used to utensils of glass, porcelain and wood like the Westerners, so most of the items like cups, saucers, glasses, plates, containers and serving dishes are commonly made in metals.
Bronze image
Sheet metal is used commonly in India for preparing water vessels, serving plates, tabletops, dowry boxes, etc. Alternatively heating and hammering the sheet metal make these forms. Another important technique of sheet metal in India is the deep repousse work. Here the flat part of the metal is first filled with lac and the basic pattern is drawn. Then the outline is beaten into the lac with the hammer and the area to be depressed is beaten down.
The lac is melted and the right side is embedded in lac and the process is reversed. The sections that are to be raised in the final piece are beaten outwards. This process is repeated until the deep repousse work emerges. Finally engraving is done. This method is used in making vessels and images of worship. Madurai, Tiruchi and Tanjore in Tamilnadu, Bombay, Varanasi, and Bhuj in Gujarat are specialties in this technique.
Casting of brass and copper is done in Moradabad. Bell metal casting is followed in Kerala, West Bengal, Orissa, Biahr and Assam. First the piece is made in sand or clay and then cast in metal.
Bronze image
Bronze mask used for traditional dances In India
Another technique of working with metals in India is the combining of two metals.
This technique is also called Ganga -Yamuna. Combining of different metals is also done by a method called Damascening where other metals are encrusted into the basic metal.
The final works are called Bidar work, Koftagiri, Zarnishan and Tarkashi after the places where they are prepared.
Koftagiri is a form of Damascening, an ancient art wherein one metal is encrusted onto another either in the form of wires or small pieces. Originally gold and silver were done on iron and steel defense items.
Now this is practiced in Kerala where silver wires are inlaid on iron sheets.
Metalwork of Rajasthan
Bidri boxes from Bihar
Bidri is a method developed in Mysore and it involves the damascening of silver on oxidized black vessels of copper and zinc. It is now practiced in Lucknow and Purnea and Murshidabad in West Bengal.
In Zarnishan, silver pieces are first engraved with the pattern and then inlaid. It is also called Zarbuland.
Wire patterns are called Tarkashi.
Tanjore Plate works, which are very popular throughout India, are also a form of Damascening. Here copper forms the basic metal over which silver medallions carrying repousse designs of Gods and Goddesses and their Vahanas are attached.
Brass decorative rosettes are also attached.
Silver filigree work
Enameling is followed in Jaipur, Delhi, Lucknow and Moradabad, where metal is engraved so as to provide depressions in which different colored laces are heated and fixed to create a surface of various colors.
In Bronze casting, the lost wax method is a fine art in India. Many images of worship are made by the process. The images are cast according to the rules laid down by the Shilpa Shastra. In the Lost Wax method, the basic form is first prepared by melting wax and then it is enclosed in clay moulds and fired. The wax melts and a clay mould is created with a hollow space. Then hot molten metal is poured into the mould and then the piece is cooled. The basic solid metal image emerges. Then finer details are engraved on the surface of the body.
In South India, Madurai, Swamimalai, Mysore, Bangalore and Karaikal are the important centers practicing this method. Palitana is an important center for casting of Jain images in Gujarat. Varanasi, Mathura, Calcutta, Balasore and Puri are also important metal -casting centers.
Jewellery is mostly associated with married woman in Indian society and a widow hardly displays any form of jewellery.
A special community of people called Sonars in India make the jewels. They are attached to specific groups and castes of people. Most of the jewellery items worn by Indian women are the same but for some regional influences.
Lambadi woman with traditional ornaments
Nose ring
Nose ornaments are widely used throughout India. Different shapes and designs are involved, as also different materials are used in its making. Gold, silver, pearls and a variety of precious stones are used.
The nose ornament took shape only in the 10 the century, with the arrival of the Arab invaders. It is of different types like the simple Lavang, clove, to Phuli, the elaborately worked stud, or Nath the nose ring worn in the right nostril and the Bulli the ring worn in the center just over the lips.
Ear ring
Tikka, worn on the forehead
Bore is a head ornament, which is placed at the parting of the hairs. It is also called as Boldra in Rajasthan, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh. The tikka is a round pendant at the end of a long chain and which falls on the forehead.
It is also commonly used throughout India. Bengal has a range of hair jewels, which decorate the hair tied as a bun at the back. In South India a variety of ornaments are available for decorating the loose plait.
A traditional Necklace
For the neck there are scores of chains, necklaces, and chokers available. Guluband is made of beads or rectangular pieces of metals strung together with the help of threads. Then there is the longer Kanthi. Under this can be worn a silver chain or a necklace of beads.
Golden Kadas
To adorn the hands there are of course a variety of rings from the cheap silver items to diamond rings, which are worth a fortune. The top of the hand can be adorned with the hathpool or Rattan Chowk. For the wrist there are the Karda, the Paunchi, the Gajira and the Chuda and these all together make up the bracelet category. Bracelets come in cheap mixed metal varieties to diamond studded gold ones. Above the elbow women wear the Bazoo, the Joshan and the Bank.
Armlet of silver
Anklet
For the hips women wear a series of chain item called the Kandora.
Anklets for the toes come in different models of heavy metals and silver. The delicately worked paizebs ending in tinkling silver hollow bells is really a good piece to adorn oneself with. The bichua or scorpion ring for the toe is a symbol for married women.
Designs and the mode of techniques vary from region to region and the material used depends upon the status of the wearer in the society. Ornaments range from the simple metal collections to the silver ones, mixed metals, gold, diamond and platinum.
Belly chains
Regional Jewellery
The Tribals of Assam patronize silver jewellery but the others use mostly gold items. The patterns are extremely beautiful and they are finely polished. The Thuria earring, which has a most distinctive design of its own in the form of a lotus with a heavy stem, is a common item. It is made of gold and studded with rubies. Necklaces and pendants of other neighboring regions are also common here.
In West Bengal, silver and gold jewellery are made. Delicate filigree works are practiced here. Tara Kanta and Pan Kanta are some of the finest pieces of jewellery, which are meant for the hair. The Tara Kantas are pins made in the form of flowers and stars. The Pan Kanta is a betel leaf ornament, which is fixed at the center of the hair bun.
In Orissa, the dominant technique employed is that of granulation and filigree. Both gold and silver are patronized. Mainly arm jewels, necklaces, nose rings and anklets are prepared. Finest designs are available for the nose rings. Maurpankhi, one of the designs is shaped like a peacock with open feathers and the whole thing is prepared according to the granulation and filigree technique. Sampangi is another nose ring, which is of the stylized pagoda type from which hangs delicately worked chains each ending in a small pipal leaf. Another peculiar jewel item of this area is the Bank worn on the forearm. This is formed of stiff chains brought together by adjustable links of flowers. Sambalpur is famous for brass jewellery. Delicately worked bangles in different patterns are available but they need regular polishing.
Punjab has hair ornaments that are different from the other parts of the country. Here the Tikka is flat and circular with small pendants hanging in the front of the Tikka.
In the Kulu region, most of the items are made in Hoshiarpur, which has its own style. The Pipal Patra made out of silver pipal leaves fastened to an enameled piece of silver is commonly worn by the women folk of this area. Here necklaces are formed out of large metal plates, which are engraved with traditional designs and filled with green and yellow enamel. The nose ornaments of this area are highly specialized. The large sized nath and boulak designs of single leaf are specials of this region.
Kashmir differs a lot from the other regions in jewellery. The most important designs here are for the ear ornaments. These are known as Kan Balle or Jhumka normally worn by the Muslim women on both the sides of their head. Then comes the common Zululand , a neck jewel item. Engraving and cut works are the important techniques used here.
In South India, wearing of silver jewellery is mostly associated with the tribals and the rest resort to gold items only. The Chettinad (in Tamilnadu) jewellery made of uncut rubies is one of the finest. The Addigai is an important neck item also made of uncut rubies set in gold. Mangai Malai, a long necklace made of mango shaped pieces studded with uncut rubies and diamonds is another specialty of this area. Nowadays diamond jewellery has caught the fancy of the South Indian women. The Thalli, a necklace, which is worn during marriage, also has various patterns according to the community of the couple.
Kerala has a rich variety of gold designs but precious stones are very rarely used. Necklaces are available in various shapes and designs. The Garuda necklace is famous here.
North India is famous for a special form of jewellery called meenakari combined with the Kundan technique. Very delicate stuff are developed using these techniques. First, a basic form of the jewellery is created with hollow spaces allowed for the stones to be inserted. Then the Meenakar fills it with lac and engraves delicate designs on it. Lines are engraved to hold different colors. First the colors, which require the maximum temperature, are filled in and fired. Then the other colors are applied and fired until both the sides are enameled properly. Then the Kundan worker places the stones in their respective area. The piece is then polished with a leather cloth. Different types of jewel items are prepared by this method and Jaipur is the main center specialized in this technique. This art is also practiced in Delhi, Lucknow and Varanasi.
Top
METALWARE
In India, the mastery over the mining, smelting and working of metals developed from ancient civilizations. The ancient Indians used to make weapons of defence from the available metals. Over the years the availability of metals increased and shaped vessels were developed gradually for personal kitchen purposes apart from tools and items of armor.
The commonest objects of metal in India are the water vessels. It is the skill of a Metal Smith who makes a water pitcher with a narrow neck and rounded contours to match the curvaceous form of the women folk! The North Indian pitchers have a flat base and a top, which rises, at an angle from the base. The Rajasthani pitcher on the other hand is rounded with a small mouth and a narrow neck, which prevents any spillage of water in the water-thirst desert regions.
Another common usage of metal in India is for the temple bells. The bells of India are noted for their depth and purity of tone and also for their designs and shapes. They are made of bell metal, which is considered to be the purest of all metals. It is nowadays also used for making utensils and other ritual vessels.
Water pitchers from Maharastra
Indians are not much used to utensils of glass, porcelain and wood like the Westerners, so most of the items like cups, saucers, glasses, plates, containers and serving dishes are commonly made in metals.
Bronze image
Sheet metal is used commonly in India for preparing water vessels, serving plates, tabletops, dowry boxes, etc. Alternatively heating and hammering the sheet metal make these forms. Another important technique of sheet metal in India is the deep repousse work. Here the flat part of the metal is first filled with lac and the basic pattern is drawn. Then the outline is beaten into the lac with the hammer and the area to be depressed is beaten down.
The lac is melted and the right side is embedded in lac and the process is reversed. The sections that are to be raised in the final piece are beaten outwards. This process is repeated until the deep repousse work emerges. Finally engraving is done. This method is used in making vessels and images of worship. Madurai, Tiruchi and Tanjore in Tamilnadu, Bombay, Varanasi, and Bhuj in Gujarat are specialties in this technique.
Casting of brass and copper is done in Moradabad. Bell metal casting is followed in Kerala, West Bengal, Orissa, Biahr and Assam. First the piece is made in sand or clay and then cast in metal.
Bronze image
Bronze mask used for traditional dances In India
Another technique of working with metals in India is the combining of two metals.
This technique is also called Ganga -Yamuna. Combining of different metals is also done by a method called Damascening where other metals are encrusted into the basic metal.
The final works are called Bidar work, Koftagiri, Zarnishan and Tarkashi after the places where they are prepared.
Koftagiri is a form of Damascening, an ancient art wherein one metal is encrusted onto another either in the form of wires or small pieces. Originally gold and silver were done on iron and steel defense items.
Now this is practiced in Kerala where silver wires are inlaid on iron sheets.
Metalwork of Rajasthan
Bidri boxes from Bihar
Bidri is a method developed in Mysore and it involves the damascening of silver on oxidized black vessels of copper and zinc. It is now practiced in Lucknow and Purnea and Murshidabad in West Bengal.
In Zarnishan, silver pieces are first engraved with the pattern and then inlaid. It is also called Zarbuland.
Wire patterns are called Tarkashi.
Tanjore Plate works, which are very popular throughout India, are also a form of Damascening. Here copper forms the basic metal over which silver medallions carrying repousse designs of Gods and Goddesses and their Vahanas are attached.
Brass decorative rosettes are also attached.
Silver filigree work
Enameling is followed in Jaipur, Delhi, Lucknow and Moradabad, where metal is engraved so as to provide depressions in which different colored laces are heated and fixed to create a surface of various colors.
In Bronze casting, the lost wax method is a fine art in India. Many images of worship are made by the process. The images are cast according to the rules laid down by the Shilpa Shastra. In the Lost Wax method, the basic form is first prepared by melting wax and then it is enclosed in clay moulds and fired. The wax melts and a clay mould is created with a hollow space. Then hot molten metal is poured into the mould and then the piece is cooled. The basic solid metal image emerges. Then finer details are engraved on the surface of the body.
In South India, Madurai, Swamimalai, Mysore, Bangalore and Karaikal are the important centers practicing this method. Palitana is an important center for casting of Jain images in Gujarat. Varanasi, Mathura, Calcutta, Balasore and Puri are also important metal -casting centers.
Jewellery
Indian courtly Jewellery is among the most sumptuous and finely wrought in the world, while the subcontinent's fold jewellery abounds in stunningly bold and powerful designs. The V&A's collection is unparalleled in its size and range, comprising over 4000 pieces and owing largely to the scale of collecting in the 2nd half of the 19th century, it is uniquely positioned to illustrate the remarkable diversity of materials used in Indian jewellery and the distinctive skills of its makers. This book features stunning photogrpahs and recent research breaking new grounds as well as presenting collection of rare and ravishing significance.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Jewellery
Western antique jewelry encompasses stylistic elements pertaining to western motifs or designs. These include motifs such as cowboys, horses, steer, and bighorn sheep. Scrolling and floral designs are common, either as part of another design or alone. Sterling silver is prominent in western jewelry, but other materials, such as rose and yellow gold, nickel, and bronze, are also common. Gem stones or other items are often used as accents rather than as focal points.
Another facet of vintage western pieces is Native American jewelry. Often handmade, Native American jewelry often features silver and turquoise, and often utilizes colorful patterns and designs.
Although definitions of "antique" or "vintage" vary in regards to jewelry, a piece older than 25 years may be considered an antique piece of western jewelry.
[edit]
Types of Vintage Western Jewelry
With its rich ornamentation, vintage western jewelry offers quite a contrast to many of the simplistic or minimalist contemporary styles. Popular items of western jewelry in the antique market include:
Cuff Bracelets: Thick Mexican and Native American cuff bracelets are beautiful and popular.
Belt Buckles: Large, ornamental belt buckles, popularized by western movies in the 1940's this accessory is a crux of western jewelry.
Watch Fobs: Used with pocket watch chains, these decorative accessories encompass a variety of styles, from horses to a fob emblematizing the famous Hanging Judge, Isaac C. Parker.
Cuff Links: This essential was often engraved, and the western styles sometimes included accents of rubies or other stones.
Tie Jewelry: A classy addition to a man's ensemble, vintage western tie pins, tacks, and bars appear in a variety of designs.
Bolos: A cord fastened with an ornamental clasp, bolos are classic western wear. Antiques were often made of porcelain, agate, onyx, or sterling silver.
Earrings: Dangling Native American earrings are popular western antique items.
Rings: Bands for men and women in sterling silver or gold and Native American styles with turquoise, mother-of-pearl, or other stones.
Necklaces: Although one of the less common pieces of western antique jewelry, beaded necklaces, western-theme pendants, and Native American styles fall into this category.
[edit]
Trophy Buckles
Introduced in the early 1900's, the western belt buckle became a beloved accessory. One of the most popular items for western antique jewelry lovers and collectors are belt buckles, and among these, trophy buckles hold a special place of honor.
[edit]
Vintage Reproductions
Although many people look for authentic, original items of western antique jewelry, the cost can be high, and collectors may not want to submit the prized items to daily wear and tear as an accessory. To solve this problem, many people turn to vintage or antique reproductions of western jewelry for beautiful looks at lowers costs. The following stores offer reproduction western jewelry:
High Desert Creations
Mountain Angels Bolos
Cowboy Things
Buffalo Brothers
[edit]
Buying Authentic Western Jewelry
Although there are many trustworthy stores and sellers offering authentic western antique jewelry, be aware there are also less-ethical sellers that may attempt to pass off inauthentic items as genuine. Ebay offers a wide selection of vintage western items and jewelry, but as with any jewelry purchase, be sure to buy from trusted sellers with positive feedback. Always peruse photos and ask questions or for additional information about any aspect of the jewelry you are unsure of. Ebay western antique stores include:
Outwest Trading Post
Crazy Cowgirl
Oregon Trail Crossing
Old Town Traders
Wild Wild West
Other stores selling western vintage jewelry include:
Cayuse
Leopard Lady Lounge
Cowboy Collectibles
Michelle's Vintage Jewelry
Prices range from under twenty dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the materials, age, and type of jewelry.
Another facet of vintage western pieces is Native American jewelry. Often handmade, Native American jewelry often features silver and turquoise, and often utilizes colorful patterns and designs.
Although definitions of "antique" or "vintage" vary in regards to jewelry, a piece older than 25 years may be considered an antique piece of western jewelry.
[edit]
Types of Vintage Western Jewelry
With its rich ornamentation, vintage western jewelry offers quite a contrast to many of the simplistic or minimalist contemporary styles. Popular items of western jewelry in the antique market include:
Cuff Bracelets: Thick Mexican and Native American cuff bracelets are beautiful and popular.
Belt Buckles: Large, ornamental belt buckles, popularized by western movies in the 1940's this accessory is a crux of western jewelry.
Watch Fobs: Used with pocket watch chains, these decorative accessories encompass a variety of styles, from horses to a fob emblematizing the famous Hanging Judge, Isaac C. Parker.
Cuff Links: This essential was often engraved, and the western styles sometimes included accents of rubies or other stones.
Tie Jewelry: A classy addition to a man's ensemble, vintage western tie pins, tacks, and bars appear in a variety of designs.
Bolos: A cord fastened with an ornamental clasp, bolos are classic western wear. Antiques were often made of porcelain, agate, onyx, or sterling silver.
Earrings: Dangling Native American earrings are popular western antique items.
Rings: Bands for men and women in sterling silver or gold and Native American styles with turquoise, mother-of-pearl, or other stones.
Necklaces: Although one of the less common pieces of western antique jewelry, beaded necklaces, western-theme pendants, and Native American styles fall into this category.
[edit]
Trophy Buckles
Introduced in the early 1900's, the western belt buckle became a beloved accessory. One of the most popular items for western antique jewelry lovers and collectors are belt buckles, and among these, trophy buckles hold a special place of honor.
[edit]
Vintage Reproductions
Although many people look for authentic, original items of western antique jewelry, the cost can be high, and collectors may not want to submit the prized items to daily wear and tear as an accessory. To solve this problem, many people turn to vintage or antique reproductions of western jewelry for beautiful looks at lowers costs. The following stores offer reproduction western jewelry:
High Desert Creations
Mountain Angels Bolos
Cowboy Things
Buffalo Brothers
[edit]
Buying Authentic Western Jewelry
Although there are many trustworthy stores and sellers offering authentic western antique jewelry, be aware there are also less-ethical sellers that may attempt to pass off inauthentic items as genuine. Ebay offers a wide selection of vintage western items and jewelry, but as with any jewelry purchase, be sure to buy from trusted sellers with positive feedback. Always peruse photos and ask questions or for additional information about any aspect of the jewelry you are unsure of. Ebay western antique stores include:
Outwest Trading Post
Crazy Cowgirl
Oregon Trail Crossing
Old Town Traders
Wild Wild West
Other stores selling western vintage jewelry include:
Cayuse
Leopard Lady Lounge
Cowboy Collectibles
Michelle's Vintage Jewelry
Prices range from under twenty dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the materials, age, and type of jewelry.
Costello's Jewellery
Costello`s a Jewellery is a third generation family jewellery retailer specialising in Australian Opals, Argyle Diamonds and South Sea Pearls located in the heart of the shopping precinct of Perth. Providing tax free shopping to overseas visitors, Costello`s Jewellery is an award winning retailer and is recommended for its selection of finished jewellery and large range of loose stones. If you want to have a piece of Australia please make Costello`s a `must see` during your visit.Costello’s is located conveniently in the heart of Perth’s shopping district and is just a stone’s
Jewellery
In Rajasthan, men and women traditionally wore necklaces, armlets, anklets, earings and rings. With the advent of the Mughal Empire, Rajasthan became a major centre for production of the finest kind of jewellery. It was a true blend of the Mughal with the Rajasthani craftsmanship.The Mughals brought sophisticated design and technical know-how of the Persian with them. The common link was the inherently decorative nature of the Muslim and Hindu art. The synthesis of the two cultures resulted in a period of grandeur and brilliance that dazzled the eyes of foreigners and has passed into legend. The jewellers of Rajasthan specilised in the setting of precious stones into gold and the enameling of gold. Jaipur and to some extent Alwar emerged as the enameling centers par excellence in the eighteenth and nineteenth century. Enameling was introduced by Maharaja Man Singh who had cordial relations with Akbar. The enameled gold staff of the Maharaja is unsurpassed even today for its brilliant colours. For enameling the piece to be worked on is fixed on a stick of lac and delicate designs if flowers, birds and fishes are etched on it. A wall is made to hold the colours while engravings are made in the grooves to heighten the interplay of the transparent shades, thus enhancing the beauty of the jewel. The surface is fully burnished by agate; then the enamel colours are filled in painstakingly as in a miniature painting. The article is then left in the oven on a mica plate to keep it off the fire. Colours are applied in order of their hardness those requiring more later when set it is rubbed gently with the file and cleaned with lemon or tamarind. The craftsmen in Jaipur are believed to have originally come from Lahore. In Jaipur the traditional Mughal colours of red, green and white are most commonly used in enameling.A quintessentially Indian technique and a speciality of Rajasthan is the setting of stones by means of Kundan the jewellery in which stones are set is rarely solid gold, it has a core of lac, a natural resin. The pieces which make up the finished object are first shaped by specialised craftsmen (and soldered together if the shape is complicated) and left in separate hollow halves. Holes are cut for the stones, any engraving or chasing is carried out and the pieces are enameled. When the stones are to be set lac is inserted in the back and is then holes. Highly refined gold, the Kundan, is then used to cover the lac and the stone is pushed into the Kundan. More Kundan is applied around the edges to strengthen the setting and give it a neat appearance. This was the only form of setting for stones in gold until claw settings were introduced under the influence under the influence of western jewellery in the nineteenth century. More than one craftsman was often in the making of a single piece of jewellery. The chiterias made the design, the ghaarias the engraving the meenakar and the sunar was the goldsmith. These craftsmen received patronage from the nobles and the kings and therefore they did not have to compromise their art for the sake of popular taste. They could take as long as they liked over a piece of jewellery. Many of the old styles remain unchanged to this day. In Pratapgarh a special type of quasi-enameling is done in which extremely fine work on gold is daintily carried out on green enamel, which forms the base. In Nathdwara a good deal of enamel work on silver and other metals is done nowadays as a furtherance to this famous age old craft.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Jewellery
Silver jewelry from india, wholesale supplier for gemstones and jewelry manufactures in silver metal with 92.5 purity, 925 sterling silver jewelry India. Bali beads 925 sterling manufacturer in India and best designers in silver jewelry producing new designs and precious, semi-precious beads, wholesaler of Bracelets, Necklace, Pendants, Silver Jewellery, Rings and Gemstone faceted Beads. Buy from the best - at the best silver prices only from Silver Planets Jaipur India. Silver Jewelry Exporters who export 925 sterling silver jewellery to UK, USA and Europe on regular basis. Popular everywhere for our quality and craftsmenship and costumer service.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Jewellery
We are Manufacturers, Exporters and Wholesale Suppliers of Indian Sterling Silver Jewelry with or without Semi Precious Stones like Pendants, Bracelets, Rings, Earrings, Necklaces, Anklets, Toe Rings & Loose Semi- Precious Stones, Beads Jewelry & Fine Antique Jewelry, beaded jewelry, costume jewelry, Fashion Jewelry in all designs .Pearl India International Inc. was established in year 1992, and now standing strongly amongst the most prestigious and world renowned export houses in India. The strong ethics and vision complied by our President made a pavement for us guide through the road of success in International Jewellery Export Market. We are pleased to present ourselves as one of the top most exporters in Indian Silver jewelry, Semi-Precious and Precious Stones. Our Product have typical Indian Craftsmanship with pinch of latest fashion and workmanship.
Jewellery
Jewellery holds paramount importance in Indian history and today when time has evolved, trends have changed and technology has taken over the fashion arena, jewellery still forms an integral part of women's lifestyle. We are manufacturers, suppliers and exporters of Womens Fashion Jewellery.Exemplary designs, precious stones and the adroit craftsmanship of Indian designers and artisans have given the birth to new line of Indian fashion jewellery which is elegant, captivating and defines attitude of individuals to make a ravishing statement in the world of fashion jewellery.
Jewellery
Jaipurwala.com is located in Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. We are one of the widely highly praised companies engaged in manufacturing and export of wide range of lac items. The finest quality and unrivaled designs of our lac products have gained wide acceptance in the market and has made us a popular name nationally and internationally, which we utilize to its maximum in serving our esteemed customers.
Quality and Variety are the two pillars of our company which tailored and crafted its collection of lac jewelry. Encircling and incorporating the latest trends and embracing the best of the past have been the consistent constitution that the company has adhered throughout the production of the lac jewellery items.
What we serve:
Lac Jewelry
We are famous manufacturer, wholesaler and exporter of Lac Jewellery. Jaipurwala.com specializes in designer Custom Lac Jewellery. You can have our up-to-date Products information on Internet and our wholesale Fashion Lac Jewellery stores just a button away from you. Now you can simply E-Mail us your order and have the Products ship to your doorstep, within a reasonable Time.
We keep ourselves updated with the latest in the market, offering our clients the best market designs. Needless to say, we do not compromise on quality. Each of our Fashion Lac Jewellery items is carefully crafted and undergoes stringent quality control check to ensure that you are served with only the very best custom jewellery. Wholesaler, distributor and dealer are most welcome.
Our product range of Lac Bangles jewellery comes in designs which will appeal to you. Our company offers a huge range of Bangles which includes Lac Bangles, Designer Lac Bangles, and lac bangle handicraft. We also well-known exporter of antique lac jewelry boxes and pill boxes. Offers antique lac jewelry boxes include lac pill boxes, lac gift boxes and marble jewelry boxes.
Quality and Variety are the two pillars of our company which tailored and crafted its collection of lac jewelry. Encircling and incorporating the latest trends and embracing the best of the past have been the consistent constitution that the company has adhered throughout the production of the lac jewellery items.
What we serve:
Lac Jewelry
We are famous manufacturer, wholesaler and exporter of Lac Jewellery. Jaipurwala.com specializes in designer Custom Lac Jewellery. You can have our up-to-date Products information on Internet and our wholesale Fashion Lac Jewellery stores just a button away from you. Now you can simply E-Mail us your order and have the Products ship to your doorstep, within a reasonable Time.
We keep ourselves updated with the latest in the market, offering our clients the best market designs. Needless to say, we do not compromise on quality. Each of our Fashion Lac Jewellery items is carefully crafted and undergoes stringent quality control check to ensure that you are served with only the very best custom jewellery. Wholesaler, distributor and dealer are most welcome.
Our product range of Lac Bangles jewellery comes in designs which will appeal to you. Our company offers a huge range of Bangles which includes Lac Bangles, Designer Lac Bangles, and lac bangle handicraft. We also well-known exporter of antique lac jewelry boxes and pill boxes. Offers antique lac jewelry boxes include lac pill boxes, lac gift boxes and marble jewelry boxes.
Jewellery
Buy Designer, Silver and Gold Jewelry Online : Here is the most exotic range of Indian Jewelry to add a shimmering delight in your dress up whether for casual wear or party wear. In this exclusive online section you have a wide range of designer Jewelry items like Anklets, Bangles, Bracelets, Chains, Chokers, Earrings, Fashion Jewelry, Hathphool, Jewelry Accessories, Necklaces, Pendants, Rings, Indian Gold Jewelry. These special online jewellery items available in this online giftshop of Jewelry are made by the skilled artisans using the high levels of craftsmanship and can be extend to the dear ones in India on any special joyous occasion. So just enter this special jewelry section and add dazzling grace to your personality.
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