Understanding Traditional Meenakari Jewelry
Jewelry is very precious to women and its importance in their lives today is not difficult to understand as humans have worn it for centuries. Colorful jewelry adds an element of vibrancy that can enhance any look, whether for casual purposes or reserved for special occasions. Meenakari is one of those famous enamel arts of Indian bridal jewelry, which is to beautify the surface of gold with beautiful colors to enhance its brightness. Let’s dive deep into this magnificent form of jewelry.
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What Is Meenakari?
Meenakari masterfully incorporates various colors into jewelry designs. This style of jewelry is distinguished by its uniqueness among other forms of traditional Indian jewelry. What makes the style unique are the intricate works of art it presents – and draws inspiration from – from flora and fauna. The Meenakari art form is a kaleidoscope of color set within a golden frame. The precious and semi-precious stones set on the colored molten glass of different colors with contours and edges made with threads and a fused shape of gold and silver are some of the most important factors in the creation of Meenakari jewelry. For royalties, crushed and combined precious and semi-precious stones were used for the coloring procedure, while glass powder was used to produce cheaper versions of Meenakari jewelry for the locals.
History of Meenakari
Meenakari takes its name from “Minoo,” which means sky or paradise in Persian, and “Meena” is the blue color of the sky. Iranian art was created by the Mongols and eventually spread to other countries (including Indians). Hence, they became acquainted with this Shahi art for their love of intricate Mughal jewelry. He was acquainted in Rajasthan, around the 16th century, by Raja Man Singh (Amber), who called Meenakars from the Mughal court of Lahore. Thanks to him, these Meenakars settled in Jaipur, then the art was here to stay. Today Jaipur is the heart of Meenakari art in India.
The science behind colored enameling
The colors used for enameling are steel oxides combined with a sprint of powdered glass. The technology concerns that the oxide content material controls the color of shade obtained. These colors rely upon how tough they turn out to be, starting with the toughest of them all. The combinations of their uncooked shape now no longer display the authentic colors instantly, however best while the product is fired within the furnace.
Regions Where Meenakari Jewellery Is Popular
Although the call for Meenakari jewelry is excessive throughout the nation, it’s miles maximum regarded and in-call for at its vicinity of production. While Jaipur has been the main hub of Meenakari jewelry for the sixteenth century, a few different components of the kingdom stand outstanding in generating and buying, and selling Meenakari jewelry worldwide. Because Meenakari Jewellery has to turn out to be an exceptional jewelry fashion of Rajasthani, the making system has turned out to be a critical part of maximum Rajasthani wedding ceremony jewelry.
Types Of Bridal Meenakari JewelleryÂ
- Khula Meena:
This style of Meenakari jewelry beautifully combines four naturally occurring colors- red, blue, green, and white. Khula or ‘open’ Meena is created by using a skinny layer of colored tooth on a yellow gold base to create extensive designs and motifs.
- Band Meena:
In comparison to Khula Meena, the Band or ‘closed’ Meena fashion is created by using a thick layer of opaque enamel on a yellow gold base. · This style artfully combines colors like parrot green, pink and turquoise.
- Panchranga Meena:
A sophisticated palette, Panchranga is an amalgamation of five colors, two of which are shades of blue, along with white, red and green. Panchranga Meena is easily identified due to its unique appearance.
- Gulabi or Banarasi Meena:
Gulabi Meena has been granted a Geographical Index (GI) tag and is the signature fashion of Meenakari jewelry from Varanasi (Banaras). It is the epitome of blush that jewelry needs. While the purple motif in Gulabi Meena is the hero of the design, a touch of different complementary colorings is used to finish the styles across the subject.
Investing In Bridal Meenakari Jewellery
The key factor determining Meenakari bridal jewelry’s price is the type of raw materials used to make the item. For Meenakari bridal jewelry, consider investing in the gem and semi-precious stone inlay —the jewel is more than a future investment. The distinctive manufacturing nature of Meenakari jewelry sets this style apart from other types of bridal jewelry. Meenakari jewelry requires detailed research and patient shopping like any additional bridal jewelry investment.
Each style of Meenakari jewelry is unique and fascinating, and each ornament is evidence that handcrafted gold jewelry in India cannot be found anywhere else in the world.
Author Bio:
Niyati Shah is a content specialist with Aurus Jewels, where she helps the digital team in developing unique, engaging, and informative lifestyle content. She covers the latest trends and topics pertaining to fine Indian jewelry, be it modern, traditional, or antique. She also writes on topics that help define and guide women, especially brides. With her experience in design and fashion, along with her passion for jewelry, she offers insightful value to her readers.
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