Traditional Indian weddings are rich in culture, steeped in symbolism and full of vibrant colors. From the intricate mehendi (temporary henna tattoos applied to the hands and feet) to the lively baraat (energetic event marking the groom’s arrival to the wedding ceremony), Indian weddings overflow with energy, opulence and expressions of joy, love, family and self. Feeding into the overall atmosphere of celebration and vibrancy, traditional Indian jewelry for weddings elevates the occasion by adding sparkle, elegance and cultural significance. If you’re planning an Indian wedding or engagement, you can learn the essentials of traditional Indian wedding jewelry here!
Important precious metals in Indian wedding jewelry
When thinking about a traditional Indian wedding, you might envision the warm, rich tones of gold jewelry. While gold is widely used in Indian wedding jewelry for its beauty and cultural significance, it’s not the only precious metal to consider. From gold bangles and maang tikka to silver nose rings and mangalsutra (Indian marriage necklaces), precious metals play an essential role in Indian wedding jewelry. Gold, platinum, silver and kundan (a traditional style of jewelry setting where gemstones are set in gold) are used most often, providing both durability and stunning designs. While other materials like pearls and stones may also appear in traditional Indian wedding jewelry, these precious metals, intricately adorned with gemstones and embellishments, often take center stage.
Essential Indian bridal jewelry
Indian bridal jewelry is not just beautiful; it also holds deep symbolism. Temple jewelry (intricate pieces often crafted in gold and silver and traditionally worn to honor deities) is a common choice for wedding day jewelry. From your feet to the top of your head, here’s a rundown of essential Indian bridal jewelry:
Anklets
Payals, or ankle bracelets, are delicate chains adorned with small bells crafted in silver or gold. These bells chime softly with the bride's movements and serve as a traditional sign of her arrival into her marriage and new home.
Bangles
Typically worn in multiples on both arms, bangles communicate the couple's wishes for good fortune and prosperity. Made from gold or glass, they make a clinking sound that is thought to ward off negative energy, ensuring the bride's protection. Kadas, thicker and often more ornate bangles, are sometimes set with precious stones, symbolizing strength and resilience in the newlyweds’ relationship.
Earrings
Jhumkas are traditional Indian wedding earrings known for their dangling appearance and iconic bell-shaped design. These earrings are typically crafted in gold and often embellished with gemstones, pearls or intricate filigree work. Jhumkas echo the celebratory spirit of Indian weddings and reflect the grace and holiness of the marriage.
If you want something even more elaborate in design, radha earrings may be right for you. Radha bridal earrings are intricate, elegant pieces often featuring floral and peacock motifs, typically inspired by spiritual and cultural elements. Crafted with precious metals and gemstones, these earrings are often worn by brides desiring a more regal look.
Rings
Rings play a significant role in wedding traditions around the world. In a traditional Indian wedding, the bride typically wears the engagement ring gifted to her before the wedding (more below!). Brides will also often add more rings with colorful stones that match the colors and style of her ensemble. Rings aren’t typically exchanged at an Indian wedding ceremony itself since Indian grooms don’t tend to receive an Indian wedding band. However, some modern Indian weddings may include a wedding band exchange for the groom, especially in urban settings, or if couples wish to incorporate Indian and Western traditions into their ceremony.
Necklaces
Mangalsutra, a sacred Indian marriage necklace made of black beads and gold, is tied around the bride’s neck by her groom as a symbol of their marriage and commitment. It is considered a protective piece that wards off evil and signifies the longevity of the husband’s life. This ornament is central to many Indian wedding ceremonies, representing not just a marital bond but also a prayer for the couple’s health and prosperity.
Nose rings
A nose ring (or nath) is a traditional piece of jewelry that brides wear in Indian weddings. The nath can be a simple, delicate stud or a larger, ornate ring, sometimes connected to the ear with a chain. It is typically worn on the left nostril, with the right nostril left free. It is considered an essential accessory in many Indian wedding customs. In some regions, the nath is also believed to symbolize the bride's transition into womanhood and marital life.
Maang Tikka
The maang tikka is a quintessential ornament in Indian bridal attire. It consists of a pendant hanging from a chain secured to the hair and resting at the center of the forehead. Often crafted from precious metals and adorned with gemstones, the maang tikka is a focal point of traditional Indian bridal attire.
How jewelry is used in Indian engagements and weddings
Jewelry is an integral part of Indian marriage traditions. The bride and groom exchange jewelry during the engagement ceremony, known as Sagai or Mangni. While gold traditional Indian engagement rings are often exchanged, other pieces like necklaces, watches or cufflinks may also be gifted, especially to the groom. This exchange marks the merging of two families and symbolizes commitment, wealth and good fortune. In some cultures, the groom’s family gives the bride a mangalsutra, a sacred necklace telling the world of her marital status. This gift exchange also sets the tone for the wedding ceremony, where jewelry continues to play a significant role in both symbolism and celebration.
On the wedding day, bridal jewelry typically includes pieces like the maang tikka, nath, necklaces and the mangalsutra, each representing different aspects of the bride’s journey—her commitment to her new family, her cultural traditions and her spiritual bond. Brides also wear kamarbandh (waistbands) and payals (anklets), with designs influenced by their region and community.
The groom's wedding attire also includes significant jewelry. The traditional Indian groom ensemble typically consists of a sherwani (wedding coat), brooches, rings and sometimes a sehra (floral veil) worn over the head. The groom might also wear cufflinks, bracelets and a kalgi (a feathered ornament on a turban), signifying his status and the occasion’s importance. Together, the jewelry worn by both the bride and groom enhances the significance and beauty of the celebration, symbolizing their union and the cultural richness of the ceremony.
A quick guide to Indian wedding attire and jewelry for guests
When attending a traditional Indian wedding, guests are encouraged to dress in vibrant, formal attire to complement the celebratory atmosphere. Women often wear traditional skirts, wraps and tunics (like sarees, lehengas or salwar kameez), while men typically opt for a kurta, a long, loose tunic often paired with traditional trousers or churidar, tighter-fitting pants that gather at the ankles.
Jewelry plays an important role for guests at an Indian wedding. Women can accessorize with statement pieces like bangles, earrings, necklaces or even a maang tikka or nose ring, adding elegance and cultural flair. Just be sure not to outshine the bride. Men can consider wearing a simple chain, cufflinks or a traditional brooch. While it's important to dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees, particularly during religious ceremonies), guests should avoid wearing white, as it is generally only used for mourning in the Indian culture. Both men and women should plan to wear something comfortable for all the dancing and festivities that occurs at an Indian wedding as it is typically an exciting celebration!
Insure your wedding jewelry with Jewelers Mutual
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