Rajasthani Jewellery

Jewellery has always been an important part of the bridal attire in almost all cultures in India. But in Rajasthan, jewellery is like attire in itself. A Rajasthani jewellery set is an expression of the age-old customs and traditional wear of the women of the state. The nostalgia and charm of it are truly unbeatable. Let’s take a look at different elements that make a true Rajputi jewellery set.

Type of Rajasthani Jewellery

1. Borla

Maang tikka is known as Borla in Rajasthan. Unlike the regular ones, it is spherical in shape and is made of gold. Traditionally a Rajsathani Borla is studded with kundan, pearls, and Meenakari work. These days’ brides wear it with two-sided chains known as Sheeshfool.

This Rajasthani Tikka becomes a distinctive feature amid both Rajasthani jewellery sets and specific, Rajputi jewellery sets as well.

2. Nath

Nath, also known as a nose ring has been an integral part of the Indian culture, especially in Rajasthan. Available in different shapes, styles, and colours, it is worn on the left nostril and is joined with a gold chain to the left ear. A nath is considered to be a symbol of being married in the state.

In the meantime, do consider going through this guide on all the different forms of nose ring designs you may pick up for your big day.

3. Kanthi

Kanthi is one of the most essential elements of Rajasthani jewellery set. It is a traditional choker neckpiece of the state which usually comes with adjustable thread so that it can fit any size of the neck. In addition to this, Rajasthani women also wear a neckpiece which is long up to the navel known as rani haar.

If put in the order of neckwear, the set begins with a Timaniya or an Aad, moves to a Kanthi and then a Rani Haar or a Maharani haar - depending on the size of the last piece.

4. Timaniya / Aad

A very famous Rajputi ornament for the neck, Timaniya is also known as Aad in Rajasthani language. It is a square or a rectangle shaped choker which is usually gifted to the bride by the family of the groom. It looks rich and enhances the overall aura of the bride. Traditionally, it used to be crafted in gold and kundan but nowadays diamond Timaniya is very popular with brides.

5. Gajara & Bangles

A very special set of two bangles worn by the Rajasthani women, Bangadi has a thick lining and small gold protrusions. Traditionally, Bangadi used to be made in gold and plastic but now many variations of it are available.

Modern style Bangadis are made in gold and diamond and are referred to as Pacheli bangles. Unmarried Rajasthani women generally do not wear these bangles as they are gifted to a bride at her wedding.

6. Haath Phool

Haath Phool is a piece of jewellery which adorns the back of the palm and the wrist. It is an accessory that has one or multiple delicate chains connected to a bangle or a bracelet with an adjustable ring. Royal Haath Phools are made of precious metals and stones like gold, meenakari, kundan, and sometimes Jadau.

7. Kamarband

Yet another very important part of a Rajasthani jewellery set, Kamarbandh is a waist chain. It is known as Kardhani or Tagdi in Rajasthan and is usually crafted of gold Polki or kundan. The best part about this ornament is that you can wear it separately with a saree, lehenga or even an ethnic gown.

8. Anklets

Worn around the ankle, an anklet is also known as a Payal or Pajeb. It is an essential part of a bridal jewellery set. Rajasthani women wear the heaviest anklets or a Kada usually made of silver. As it is considered inauspicious to wear gold in the feet, modern Rajputi brides prefer wearing gold-plated anklets or the ones with meenakari or kundan work.

9. Bajubandh

Bajubandh or an armlet is a kind of a bracelet worn on the upper part of any one arm. Besides being important wedding jewellery, it is also an important fashion ornament.  From delicate to sturdy ones, there are a variety of Bajubandhs available these days made of precious metal like gold and silver.

10. Toe rings

When we talk about a Rajasthani jewellery set, it cannot be considered complete without toe rings. Also known as Bichuwa, it is gifted to a bride by her parents and is worn in the second toe. A traditional Rajasthani toe ring is made with gold plating in a floral design. It looks amazing on Indian outfits.

11. Rani Haar

 The Rani Haar and Maharani Haar variants are the longest neck pieces for a Rajasthani jewellery set and provide it with a clear, majestic feel. The Rani haar necklace extends from the shoulders to the navel, with a large ornament in the middle. Since it covers the most area on a bride, these pieces can be either delicate, jadau jewellery or heavy pieces from Polki and Kundan collections.

12. Lac bangles

A traditional ornament which completes the authentic Rajasthani jewellery set, the lac bangles are one of the core signs of matrimony for a Rajasthani bride. Though these bangles have transitioned from lac and ivory to plastic bangles, these still add a distinct touch to the bride's overall look. 

While the bangles originally covered the bride from her forearms upto her elbows, most now choose to don a few for tradition's sake.

13. Matha patti - Shishful

A mathapatti is a traditional Rajasthani head decoration worn by ladies. It is a piece of ornate jewellery worn on the forehead, right above the brows. Mathapattis are usually crafted of gold or silver and embellished with gemstones and elaborate motifs. They are frequently worn in pairs, with one mathapatti on either side of the brow. Mathapattis are a symbol of a lady's married status in Rajasthani tradition, and are often given to a woman as a gift by her husband. They are frequently worn at weddings and other special occasions, and are a key aspect of Rajasthani bridal costume.

A mathapatti, also known as a maang tikka in Rajasthan and Gujarat, is a traditional Indian headpiece worn by ladies. It is a piece of brow jewellery that made up of a chain with a pendant that hangs down the centre of the brow. Mathapattis are normally made of gold or silver and adorned with jewels such as diamonds or pearls. They are usually worn during weddings and other big occasions, and are seen as a symbol of a woman's marital status in Indian culture. In Rajasthani and Gujarati culture, the mathapatti is an important element of a lady's bridal dress.

A mathapatti is a piece of traditional Indian head ornament used by women. It is an ornamental piece worn right above the brows. Mathapattis are usually formed of gold or silver and embellished with gemstones and exquisite motifs. They are worn as a symbol of a woman's marital status and are frequently offered as a gift by her husband. Mathapattis are a traditional Indian bridal garment that is frequently worn at weddings and other special occasions. Mathapattis, also known as "maang tikka" in Rajasthani culture, are generally worn with a sari or lehenga choli.

These are some of the essential elements that make a Rajasthani jewellery set. Most of them have a religious meaning and are considered to be sacred. They are so royal and rich in appeal, that you won’t be able to take your eyes off.