Shopper's Paradise : Jewellery
The
craftsmanship of the jewellers of Rajasthan is renowned all over. Silver
is more commonly worn by the rural women and is certainly more affordable
for a shopper, although for the dedicated collectors, goldwork of the
highest quality is also available. Even the men in Rajasthan wear
elaborate jewellery, perhaps even a bold earring dangling down.
Bangles
are a special attraction of Rajasthan. Lac bangles are believed to be worn
as a sign of good omen and are available in many colours & designs.
Glass bangles, made in great variety in Jaipur & Jodhpur, are
perennially in demand and are available in most parts of the state.
Kundan
and enamel jewellery has been a speciality of Rajasthan, particularly that
of Jaipur. Kundan is the art of setting precious stones in gold.
The
stones are embossed into decorative shapes & patterns and embellished
with delicate enamel ornamentation in the champeve ( raised field )
technique. The designs are mostly exquisitely entwined flowers and birds
and sometimes human and animal figures.
Jaipur is well known for
its gold and silver enamelling. This traditional art of Meeriakariis also
done in Nathdwara.
The
thewa work of Pratapgarh is highly exquisite and popular, in this
technique, designs are enamelled in gold on a glass base. The base used is
generally green or red in colour.
Precious & Semi -
Precious Stones :
Rajasthan has rich deposits of
precious and semi-precious stones such as emerald, garnet, agate,
amethyst, topaz and lapiz lazuli. The various precious stones are given an
iconc""""1"1'^ symbolic of the Hindu gods as well
as planets of the Indian astrological system. Each gem is believed to have
inherent powers and some of them are worn in rings and other jewellery as
lucky charms.
The skilled gem-cutters of Jaipur also carve
enchanting little animals and birds from rock, crystal, jade, smoky topaz
and amethyst. For the stylish tourist, intaglio beads & buttons and
crystal scent bottles are also available
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