Virtual Bling: Indian Jewellery Online

In 2007 the launch of Flipkart, which was a huge success, showed that Indians are open to buying things online. The Bansals of Flipkart had paved the path for the booming Indian e-commerce market.  Among the needs of the Indian consumer, jewellery has an around $55 billion worth market. However, do Indians buy jewellery online? Here’s a look at Indian jewellery online.

Diamond and emarald necklace set

Diamond and Pearls necklace set

The Indian jewellery online market has both pros and cons to it. Looking at the cons, compared to the mammoth Indian jewellery market, which is one of the largest in the world, the online sales account for a very small percentage. This can be attributed to different factors, few of which are: 

• See, touch and feel: Jewellery is an item with very high average selling price. So consumers are vary about buying jewellery without getting a good look at the diamonds, the quality of craftsmanship and assurance about gold used. 

• Tradition: Most families have their trusted jeweller over generations, so for occasions like weddings, etc ., they would like to have a personal interaction with their trusted jeweller and get a unique custom experience.

• Customer Service: India lacks high standards of customer service (especially it stands true for some small businesses) and also due to the lack of high security standards online, customers are sometimes not willing to pay huge amounts online. However things are changing as far as security and customer service is concerned so in future maybe the trust factor online would be better. 

The Indian jewellery online market enjoys pros as well:

• Upward trend: Due to the burgeoning e-commerce in India people are becoming open to buying big ticket items online, especially if it comes from a trusted source. So when you hear Ratan Tata has invested in Bangalore based Blue stone and US hedge fund Tiger Global has put its money into Caratlane, it gives you an assurance about these online portals.

• Delivery system: With the success of deliveries from Flipkart and Amazon, people have started trusting sources which have a good delivery system set up. Many jewellers are also tying up with these online giants to ensure delivery success.

• Lower investment:  Online portals reduce the need of having a plush high end store in a good locale with optimum display. They can transfer these savings to have a higher number of varied collections of jewellery. Due to the low set –up cost we have seen an upward trend in lot of jewellery start-ups online.

• Technology: Using advanced computer technology today we have better display of jewellery online, showing the minutest detail, so the customers can order exactly what they want. 

• Better customer service: Caratlane was the first to come up with a try at home option for jewellery. The Indian jewellery online set-ups do not have to deal with high volume sales instead they enjoy higher returns on each item sold. So they can focus more into making each sale an amazing service experience, which will lead to consumers willing to spend more online.

The fashion imitation Indian jewellery online market has huge potential and people are very open to buying such jewellery online as they see minimal risk in terms of cost.

Experts have estimated the Indian jewellery online market to grow at a rate of 30%. The big Indian jewellery online players like Caratlane, Bluestone and Gitanjali are being very specific in their target audience. They are focusing on the working girl, who is open to buy jewellery online and prefers light accessories, she can carry to work. So most of the sales happen in the ‘affordable jewellery’ segment. The high value purchases for weddings still happen offline but with the younger generation being more savvy and open to the virtual bling, I do not think that day is far when buying an expensive Indian jewellery online is as simple as buying a T-shirt online.

Image Source: Strand of Silk

The Important Types of Indian Jewellery

Jewellery has been an integral part of Indian culture. Owing to the rich heritage, there are different types of Indian jewellery to decorate each and every body part. There are hair ornaments, earrings, nose pins, necklaces, waistbands, armlets, bracelets, finger rings, anklets, toe rings and many more. Furthermore, due to India’s diverse culture each piece has a lot of variation in terms of craftsmanship and style. The following is a quick preview of the important types of Indian jewellery based on traditional craftsmanship.

• Meenakari Jewellery – These types of Indian jewellery use brightly coloured enamel pigments fused with gold or silver in intricate patterns derived from nature like flowers, vines or animal forms. Invented in Iran, the Mongols spread the craft to India and other countries. The craft is practised more in Jaipur, Udaipur, Delhi and Banaras.

Source: www.bhagwatijeweller.in

• Kundan Jewellery - In this type a gold foil is used to set gem stones on the base mounting piece of gold. This art originated in the royal courts of Rajasthan and Gujarat and was highly patronised during the Mughal era. Kundan is known for very elaborate and heavy necklace sets in gold. The royal appearance of Kundan makes it an important part of the types of Indian jewellery. The art is practised in Rajasthan.

Source: www.strandofsilk.com

• Jadau/ Jadtar Jewellery – This jewellery has uncut diamonds (polki), gems, crystals or beads embedded in gold which is first lightly melted. The embellishments on gold are attached without any adhesives or carvings. Jadau work has Mughal descent and is practised in Rajasthan and Gujarat since Mughal era.

Source: www.mumbaigloss.in

• Pachchikam Jewellery - This type of jewellery has a crude execution in which its beauty lies. It generally uses silver as the base metal and uncut semiprecious stones and glass work are pressed onto the metal. It originated in Rajasthan and Kutch region of India.

Source: www.utsavpedia.com

• Thewa Jewellery - Taking an important place in the types of Indian jewellery, this is an art where intricately designed gold sheets are embossed on molten glass. It originated in Rajasthan under the Mughal influence. The designer, Roopa Vohra, has popularised it through her work.

Source: www.jaipurblog.in

• Temple Jewellery - This jewellery was used to adorn the Hindu idols of gods and goddesses in temples. It was later worn by the temple dancers and then it found its way into the bridal trousseau. The stones used in the jewellery are called kemp stones. It originated in the South of India during the reign of Chola dynasty.

Source: www.onlinejewelryclass.biz

• Filigree jewellery - In this art silver is made into thin wires and then the thin wires are fused together and bent to create intricate patterns. It originated in Egypt and Mesopotamia and the Indian filigree work is Greek inspired. In India fine filigree work can be seen in Orissa and Andhra Pradesh.

Source: www.polyvore.com

Looking at the types of Indian jewellery, from the time of the Maharajahs till today the Indian adornment has undergone a lot of transformation. Taking inspiration from the crafts of India the contemporary fashion jewellery has branched out.

Contemporary fashion jewellery

Indians love gold but due to heavy nature of the metal, the modern girl looks for something more contemporary that suits her lifestyle. Today’s designers have answered her quest by marrying ancient crafts with modern materials. The results are lightweight, uniquely designed amazing pieces to go with contemporary attire. Contemporary fashion jewellery takes an important place in the types of Indian jewellery and the creations of some renowned designers can be found on Strand of Silk, the website for contemporary designer wear. 

Meenakari drop bead earrings by Sannam Chopra

Antique finish kundan earrings by Shillpa Purii

Gold jadau cuff by Diagold

Temple inspired jewellery by Roopa Vohra

Roopa Vohra’s blue peacock thewa inspired cuff on lacquer

Filigree earrings by Roopa Vohra

Orange filigree clutch by Meera Mahadevia

The other types of Indian jewellery are the flamboyant bridal jewellery using gold and gem stones, and the new age subtle jewellery using other metals like platinum and sterling silver, with diamonds. One important member of the types of Indian jewellery is antique jewellery which is generally passed on as heirloom through families and has a dull, old world charm to it. So if you are looking to buy Indian jewellery, you will have trouble shopping, as sky is the limit!

The Multiple Facets of Jewellery Adornment

In Sanskrit, the word for jewellery is ‘aabharan’ that means to admire and protect. Jewellery is thus believed to be worn to take care of and protect our body and sensibilities of mental and physical well-being.

Adorning ourselves in beautiful jewellery and accessories is meant to enhance our beauty and aesthetic appeal. History reveals that, in ancient times doctors would recommend an amulet that can be worn to guard the body from diseases.

Today, magnetic belts are commonly worn to increase the circulation of blood to specific body parts that can help these parts heal.

Gold and many semi- precious stones are considered auspicious and are believed to be tokens of wellness. Adornment does not always need to be elaborate, flamboyant or expensive. Adornment can also be simple. Adornment occurs in tribal areas, in the mountains and in villages where even though the lifestyle is simple, people still consider wearing jewellery significant.

Design characteristics and embellishments are commonly found in all parts of nature and design draws inspiration from this using plants and animals to create stunning jewellery designs that are be used as forms of adornment. We can see adornment and design all around us. For example in the stripes of a zebra, peacock feathers, swans eyes, butterfly wings etc. and all of these designs help us in our design sensibilities.

While adornment has always been an important factor in design with multiple meanings and uses, teamed with comfort, it acts as a personal expression of ourselves.

Have a look at other pieces of Indian jewellery!

Bridal Indian Jewellery and Top Bridal Trends

Bridal Indian Jewellery is an extremely significant and integral part of the styling and appearance of the Indian bride on her big day. Essentially the bridal look is not actually considered to be complete unless the bride to be is showcasing every piece of jewellery that is intended and chosen for her. 

Traditionally, within most Indian weddings, the bride wears a variety of statement gold bridal Indian jewellery, similar to how every country has its own bridal trends. Among these countries, Indian weddings are widely considered the most glamorous.

The significant occurrence of marriage is an extremely special one for most people. In India, it is considered to be a very sacred and special bond. An Indian woman considers the day of her marriage to be the most important and biggest day in her life. To make this special day perfect, arrangements go on for a number of months within the Indian households. Bridal Indian Jewellery plays an extremely important role within Indian weddings; the Indian bride is normally decorated from head to toe in gorgeous bridal jewellery that accompaniments both her attire and personality.

On par with Bridal Indian Jewellery, bridal attire trends are always changing, and brides often strive to be at the head of their game when it comes to following the top and most luxurious trends, here are our top bridal trends from the most recent Indian Bridal Fashion Week, that stood out to us as being one of the best we've seen so far!

First is rich colours and Mirror work. Designer Suneet Varma was specifically inspired by the rich coloured hand-painted and crafted architecture of ‘Shekhawati’, a well known region in Rajasthan. His collection consisted of vibrant reds and deep fuchsia, perfect for a bride looking to turn heads. Kangana Ranaut stole the show in a deep red coloured saree, heavily embroidered and every inch of glamorous.

Next is the unique colour trend, and the colour of choice is blue. Funnily enough blue is an unusual choice for bridal wear, but it looks beautiful for more reasons than one. To get the most out of this unusual tone trend, add contrasting colours such as reds, oranges, maroons, and a touch of gold to accomplish a opulent look just like the one showcased by Ashima Leena's Jashn Bridal Collection. Her colourful bodice was an instant hit for it’s unique colour contrast.

Last but not least is the Cape trend, it would be fair to state that Sonam Kapoor was the first person introduce this trend when she wore a unique cape over her saree at Cannes Film Festival. But most recently, popular designer Jyotsna Tiwari paired a stunning sheer cape over a beautifully structured gown that made it look all that more special!

Want to see more Indian Accessories?

Cocktail Dresses to Make you Look Hotter than Summer!

Summer? What a bummer!

That is the reaction most of us have, as soon as the temperatures rise up. The month of May usually spells ‘dismay’ for many fashion enthusiasts, as it means no more long flowing dresses, no more dark shades to camouflage those love handles, no more heavy embroideries, and absolutely no layers! In short, it’s time to bid adieu to flattering cocktail dresses, right? Wrong! Summers are the best time to give the ‘Safe Dressing’ a break and bring the funky on! Show the world your fun side,

and be the belle of any event with these super stylish summer cocktail dresses.

Maxi dress:

For all the ladies with an undying love for long flowy dresses, MAXI is the way to go. Initially deemed as more of a comfort wear, these dresses today have become one of the classiest summer cocktail dresses. If you’re tall, you can easily pull off a Maxi dress, however, make sure that the dress compliments your figure instead of giving you a straight, oblong silhouette. This can be easily done by adding a belt at the waist line, which favourably enhances your body. Also, subtle jewellery, such as a long chain with a statement pendant, single or double bracelets, arm jewellery etc can add to the appeal of your outfit.

Strapless:

It’s time to do away with sleeves, and flaunt those shoulders! As glamorous as these dresses are, be sure to choose the right neckline.  Scoop, V-neck , square or sweetheart cuts tend to look good on almost every body type and size. 

v-neck    

sweetheart neckline

                                                                            

The Little Black Dress:

Running late for a party, and have no time to decide what to wear? It’s the Little Black Dress to the rescue! If there’s anything as flawless as a pair of blue jeans and white shirt combo, it’s the LBD. If you decide to go for a minimal classy look, just dab on some lip-gloss and mascara, and voila, the party has a head turner! If you wish to accessorize, go in for gold or silver jewellery, as it will more than compliment this evergreen summer cocktail dress.

Faux wrap:

Want to go in for a casual yet elegant summer cocktail dress? The faux wrap is your best bet. If worn right, the faux wrap can not only be super flattering, but can even help you minimize your problem areas! Women with full-figures can go in for shades like turquoise, purple and red as these aim to complement rather than highlight a curvy body. The way a faux wrap drapes around the body, helps create a feminine silhouette.

Vintage style dresses:

If there’s a summer cocktail dress that favours every type of figure, it is the Vintage dress. These full-formed frocks not only feature a fit and flared shape but can also be paired with a wide belt that further accentuates  the smallest part of your midsection,  that is the waist. Part modern, part retro, this ladylike dress will have you looking and feeling as graceful as a princess. This dress can be paired with a pair of matching pumps to add a modern edge. This chic summer cocktail dress proves beyond doubt that old sure is gold!

Shift dress:

This type of summer cocktail dress lacks detailed shaping. They can be plain or feature A-line skirts and are usually sleeveless. However, the generous cut of the dress in addition to the lack of detail, has a tendency to make the wearer look frumpy, hence several factors should be considered when choosing the right shift dress. In addition to this, the right accessories can be used to draw the attention away from problem areas and turn a shift dress into something spectacular. One of the reasons shift dresses are a hot favourite among women is the shear versatility of the garment. Be it an office get-together or a dinner party, a shift dress is sure to shift all gazes on to you!

 

Sheath dress:

Contrary to the Shift Dress, a Sheath Dress is designed to fit the body intimately, and is a relatively unadorned summer cocktail dress. Since it has a close-fitting shape that encases the body, it is important to ensure that the back slit/back pleat keeps it walkable. In this type of summer cocktail dress, the major focal point is the waist, hence accessorizing with a belt serves to add extra definition.

Peplum:

A peplum dress is a relatively newer trend in summer cocktail dresses that is rapidly gaining popularity, owing to its commendable ability to redefine your natural body shape into the ideal hourglass shape. The peplum attracts attention away from problematic areas such as hips and gives the illusion of a slender waist.

Floral:

This cocktail dress is hands down a summer must-have!  Not only do these perky dresses reflect playfulness, but at the same time, exude femininity. While accessorising, keep the bling to a minimum, as you do not want your jewellery to compete with the much obvious floral pattern of the dress. Not only are these dresses apt for any morning/afternoon event, these floral frocks are also perfect summer cocktail dresses for any evening soiree. Who knew, beating the heat could be so glamorous!

Searching for Top bridal Indian Jewellery?

India’s international jewellery Week 2014 Highlights and Top Picks

India’s international jewellery Week 2014 has recently taken place and it was certainly was not one to be missed. A huge array of models showcasing gorgeous Indian designer jewellery collections of all shapes and sized sashayed down the ramp at the fifth edition of the India International Jewellery Week.

A unique variety of jewelers, designers and design graduates from the Indian Institute of Gems and Jewellery presented their creations at the event hosted by the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council.

The Indian jewellery designers produced the most essential and inspirational jewellery to date, making a statement across the globe. India’s international Jewellery Week provided a perfect international platform for India's most talented designers and design houses to showcase their original and contemporary Indian designer jewellery collections.

 The shows took place over a spectacular four-day period, from July 14 to July 17, and featured from of Bollywood’s hottest stars.

Day 1: Our favourite show from day 1 had to be Sunny Leone’s collection, full of black magic and darker tones, the statement gold and silver pieces were beautifully designed, and perfect for dressing up a simple outfit and standing out from the crowd.

Day 2: Day two of event featured a stunning array of Indian designer jewellery collections, but Swarovski definitely stood out to us as being the number one show stopper. The ballroom of the Grand Hyatt was transformed into a marriage Mandap with masses of marigold streamers dangling from the ceiling. The runway ramp was edged with a gorgeous border of marigolds, setting the stage perfectly for a mega wedding style celebration, which featured a number of brides from all around the country.

The Swarovski “The Brides of India” collection was presented by Nazraana in association with P C Jeweller, and was a mind blowing combination and variety of genuine jewels and synthetic stones all beautifully crafted. The colour, detail, sheer beauty and cut of the stones were a breath-taking view on the catwalk as the models strutted their way down the runway.

Day 3: Sonam Kapoor, Sridevi and Parineeti Chopra took to the ramp on Day 3, making it a day to remember! Our favourite show had to be by Golecha Jewels. The collection consisted of stunning oversized and detailed traditional neckpieces, which were displayed with deep oranges and reds which made the richness of the gold stand out beautifully.

                                                   

And lastly, our favourite of all the shows took place on the last day of IIJW. It featured one desired and standout piece of Indian designer jewellery from each of the many stunning collections shown in the first three days of India International Jewellery Week 2014. There were 21 items altogether from the different brands and Indian jewellery designers that were there to make their mark in the global jewellery scene.

Indian Jewellery: The Best Gift You Could Receive on Valentine's Day

Indian Jewellery: The Best Gift You Could Receive on Valentine's Day

Valentine’s Day is coming soon!! Are you wondering what a gift for this special occasion could look like? We think that Indian Jewellery might be what you are looking for! Take a look at this solitaire inspired diamond ring by Diagold:

Would you like to see more? Click here

Actresses Love Indian Jewellery

On Sunday, Olivia Munn attended the Golden Globe Awards post-party held by HBO at The Beverly Hilton Hotel. She attended the event wearing a black halter top and lapis-blue maxi skirt. She complemented it with silver bangles. Indian jewellery and bangles, especially, are the best to complement even the most elegant outfit.

If you are looking for some exquisite cuff or earrings, click to see more Indian jewellery!

Picture of the day: Sannam Chopra's Space Necklace

Do you like this beautiful necklace by designer Sannam Chopra?

See other jewelleries!

Indian tunics: Raveena Tandon in Anita Dongre

Raveen Tandon attended the launch of a Roopa Vohra's jewellery line in a hot pink chiffon tunic and palazzo pants designed by Anita Dongre. She completed her look with a heavy neck-piece.

If you are a fan of Indian tunics this one will make you look glamorous and fresh!

Indian Necklaces Inspired by the Catwalks

It was a pleasure to have a look at the photo galleries of the most recent parties to see how our favourite celebrities have taken inspiration from the fashion catwalks! 

We felt astonished by the style choices of jewellery and accessories.. Especially by some beautiful Indian necklaces wore by Sonam Kapoor, Tisca Chopra and Masaba Gupta! Have a look at them…

         

  ..Don’t you find these Indian necklaces a true expression of style?

You Should Have Those Indian Accessories !

Every time and each seasons, you can match Indian accessories with everything. With different designs, colors, textures or style, you can easily find your best Indian accessories to add a glamorous touch to your look. 

Bags, jewellery or Ipad cover for example, celebrities never forgot to match their dresses with an Indian accessories ! 

Have a look at them with different Indian accessories:

Freida Pinto at Tribeca Film Festival, with her black and gold bag.

Aishwarya Rai inaugurated the Kalyan jewelry showroom in Kochi.

Priyanka Chopra with necklaces at a fashion event in India.

See also Russian beauties in Indian dresses!

Shop Indian earrings by Roopa Vohra Now!

A new collection of jewellery by Roopa Vohra has been recently launched on Strand of Silk. Bracelets, earrings, necklaces and cuffs are now available in many variants for you to complete your glamorous styles!

A pair of delicate Indian earrings in gold and silver colours, enriched with semi-precious stones, will always make you feel like a princess.

Have a look at this selection of Indian earrings…

…And shop now at Strand of Silk!