The Indian Bride’s Quick Guide to Wedding Jewellery

A gorgeous Indian bride wears the traditional bridal jewelleries from head to foot. More than just an artistic expression of beauty, it also has cultural and spiritual significance. It is therefore very important for the bride to always pay special emphasis to her bridal jewellery. Here is the head to toe guide to choosing the perfect bridal jewellery set:

Maang Tikka or Forehead Jewellery

This beautiful jewellery is placed over the head with a jewelled chain in the middle parting of the hair. The pendant at its front end rests on the bride’s forehead. The ajna chakra which represent knowing or perceiving is said to be found in this area. The pendant contains a set of precious gemstones arranged like petals which may have various colors. These petals traditionally signify the sacred union of the bride and the groom in spiritual, physical and emotional aspects.

Earrings

Indian bridal jewellery is never complete without a pair of earrings. Large, dangling earrings are recommended. When choosing the right earrings, it is best to consider their size and weight. When purchased separately, the color and design has to compliment the bride’s face and her wedding dress.

Nath or Nose Ring

Indian brides adorn their nose with prominently shaped jewellery which may come with small chain connecting to the left side earring. Since this is put in the nose which is quite a sensitive part, others may opt to choose clip type naths or the thinner and less adorned ones so as to avoid pain or irritation.

Necklace

Every Indian bride wears a necklace which may vary in design, size and length. It has to suit the bride’s entire appearance and be comfortable to wear. The traditional mangalsutra comes with this which the groom will put on the bride during the ceremony. Similar to the significance of a wedding ring, the mangalsutra is worn by a married Indian woman as a sign of commitment and devotion to her husband.

Baju Band or Arm Band

This is worn around the bride’s arm and is usually made of gold and an ensemble of gemstones. This is said to signify royalty and signifies a sense of virtue for a bride. The armband must not be too tight. It must also not be too loose so it won’t come off.

Bangles and Hand Chains

The wrist area is usually adorned with bangles and occasionally a well crafted hand chain to go with the henna tattoo. The material may vary from gold, glass, or ivory along with its colors depending upon the tradition in the area. A hand chain is an additional ornament comprised of a ring that has intricate chains connecting it to its bracelet part. The ring usually has a prominent flower design.

The Wedding Ring

Even without the hand chain, the bride’s (as well as the groom’s) finger always has to have that wedding ring. This is the symbol of the whole union between the bride and the groom’s commitment to each other.

The Kamarbandh or Waist Band

A woman’s figure is highlighted by the kamarbandh by helping flatter the waist area. It is made of metal, usually gold, and is usually shaped with intricate shapes of chains or in belt form that can add a decorative accent to the wedding dress.

Anklet

Usually made from silver, this foot ornament also serves to highlight to the intricate henna tattoo on the bride’s foot. Wedding anklets have distinctive design of chains and tiny bells that make a sound as the bride walks the aisle as a symbol of her arrival to her new home and to her new life.

Toe Ring

It is necessary for Indian brides to have toe rings on their wedding day. These metal bands are usually made of silver and may come in singles and pairs or threes that are connected to each other. This is said to be in connection to conception.

It is important to consider the bride’s convenience and appearance when choosing the right bridal jewelleries. These adornments not only serve as physical ornaments but they also signify a deeper dimension to the bride’s commitment to her marriage and to her spouse.