If you’ve swooned over the regal looks in Bollywood period dramas like Jodhaa Akbar or Padmaavat, you’ve already admired the splendour of jadau jewellery. We’d like to think of jadau jewellery as wearable art steeped in heritage and opulence. The craft of making jadau jewellery involves embedding precious, uncut stones into softened gold – and no wonder, it has managed to embed itself in the rich, cultural heritage of the country as well as the hearts of millions of jewellery connoisseurs. From a resplendent jadau necklace that commands attention to intricate jadau bangles that whisper elegance, each piece carries a legacy of craftsmanship and tradition.
While this style remained on the sidelines for quite some time, it has witnessed a grand revival post-Jodhaa Akbar with the most recent example being Heeramandi which showcased some breathtaking jadau jewellery sets on screen. However, it’s not just the movies — in real life too, jadau continues to shine. We’ve all seen it and we’ve all admired it. Now it’s time to truly understand it—the origins, the artistry, the significance, the whole story.
The Origins & Craft of Jadau Jewellery.
Jadau is an ancient jewellery-making technique, nothing short of an art form perfected over centuries. It was introduced to India by the Mughals and flourished in the royal courts of Rajasthan and Gujarat, with Rajasthan still being the hub for this jewellery style. Interestingly, the term ‘jadau’ refers to the craft, rather than the ornament itself. It comes from the colloquial term ‘jad’ which means ‘to embed’— an apt description, as it involves embedding uncut diamonds, pearls, emeralds, and other precious stones into softened gold, all without the use of any glue or adhesive.
This intricate process transforms gold into a canvas, where stones are carefully set by skilled artisans known as Ghaarias. The result? Exquisite pieces like the jadau maang tikka worn by Rajasthani brides or the ornate jadau choker sets that once graced royal courts. Over time, jadau has evolved, with modern designers reinterpreting traditional styles to fit contemporary aesthetics, ensuring its relevance in today’s fashion landscape.
The Time & Patience Behind Every Piece.
Patience isn’t just a virtue, it’s a necessity when it comes to creating jadau masterpieces. Depending on the intricacy of the design, creating a single piece like a jadau choker set can take weeks or even months of meticulous work. A team of specialised artisans collaborates to bring each creation to life, from Chiterias who design the piece to Ghaarias who engrave the stones by hand.
This isn’t just jewellery-making, but instead a labour of love that demands precision, creativity and expertise. It’s no wonder that jadau remains the jewellery of choice for iconic Indian weddings and momentous celebrations.
Why Jadau Jewellery Stands the Test of Time.
It’s not just about the sparkle, it’s about the soul. Jadau jewellery is a living testament to India’s rich artistic heritage. Beyond its breathtaking beauty, each piece carries a cultural legacy, preserving techniques passed down through generations. Whether it’s a statement jadau necklace set or a delicate gold jadau jewellery piece, these treasures are more than adornments — they’re heirlooms.
Passed down from one generation to the next, they retain both their value and sentiment, making them an investment in tradition and elegance. With each passing year, the appreciation for their craftsmanship only grows — and their value follows suit.
Investing in Jadau: What to Look Out For?
When buying jadau, authenticity and craftsmanship are paramount. True jadau pieces feature uncut stones set without adhesive, a hallmark of this ancient technique. Look for 22-24k gold casings, and ensure the stones — be they diamonds, rubies, or emeralds — are untreated and natural. Additionally, consider the provenance of the piece and seek certification to ensure its authenticity and value.
Caring For Your Jadau Treasures.
Jadau jewellery requires a little extra care and attention to maintain their shine and structure. Think of it as caring for crown jewels — because, well, that’s exactly what they are! Here’s how to keep them in pristine condition:
- Store each piece in soft, padded boxes to prevent scratches.
- Avoid exposure to perfumes and harsh chemicals.
- Clean gently with a soft cloth.
- Keep away from moisture to prevent damage to the stones.
- Regularly inspect for loose stones to ensure longevity.
With the right care, your jadau jewellery set will remain as resplendent as the day you bought it.
Ready to embrace the timeless allure of jadau? As master jewellers with decades of expertise, Tanishq brings you the finest jadau choker sets, jadau bangles, and gold jadau bracelets — each crafted with unparalleled skill and passion. With Tanishq, you’re not just buying jewellery — you’re investing in a legacy. Explore our collection and add a royal touch to your treasure trove.
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