Indian Bangles

Bangle designs have evolved over centuries assimilating different cultures, shapes and embellishments. The current fashion scene is dense with adaptations from the past and revival of older regal jewellery styles. The thing about India, as always talked about is diversity, and it is very much visible in fashion too, with designs that are drastically different across regions. South India boasts of temple jewellery, and the state of Maharashtra boasts 'patlaya' along with carved humongous 'kada's (fitted bold bangles). North Indian bangles have illustrious enamel and stonework, covered in pearls and stones along with delicate filigree designs.

Once you have decided to go for bangles, you need to know the options available.

The choice of metals ranges from gold to silver to platinum. Our time favourite is gold, which boasts the most number of designs and is a great investment option too. Silver is a style statement these days, with oxidised antique silver kadas being every girl's must-have. You may embellish bangles with gemstones adding colour and style. Platinum bangles adorned with diamonds are classy and elegant.

The most exciting part of bangles is the design, the never-ending variety of them. The rich Indian heritage has gifted us various ethnic bangle designs perfected by artisans over centuries.

The Meenakari design, recognised by a play of colours, flaunts gold coated with coloured enamel in vibrant shades. They are inlaid in intricate designs mostly flaunting creepers, flowers and concentric geometric patterns. Filigree is thin, and heavy on work, and see through which is a sight in itself. Filigree bangles with enamel inlays are a dream.

'Kundankari' bangles are a rage with uncut diamonds making a major presence known. Pair your 'Kundan' choker necklace with a matching bangle with ruby or emerald stones to accompany. If you are looking for a combination of two beautiful works, it is 'Jadau', an amalgamation of 'Kundankari' and 'Meenakari' with gold foils at the borders to give the diamonds an extra glistening. Jadau bangles come in a variety of shapes of stones and have high shine and lustre. Get on the top trend wheel with pearl studded bangles where the glow of gold meets the subtle shine of pearls. Pearl studded or suspended bangles are regal and unlike any other.

Curved gold bangles comes in curvy zig-zag shapes. These are a deviation from the traditional round gold bangles; they look very stylish even with indo-western outfits.

For the lover of genuine antiques get your bangles in the rustic gold shade which resembles the original temple jewellery adorned by goddesses. The oxidised look adds to the glamour of historical fashion in a new light. They have a very regal look. A single piece on one wrist is more than enough to garner attention. Antique gold kadas are broad and often embellished with colourful stones. Gold bangles with stones on are the best. The ornamental bangles with rubies surrounded by diamond chunks are a beautiful addition to wedding jewellery. Go for a match of earrings and necklaces to complete the look.

The conventional bangle is round, and not much has changed from it. There are occasion bangles that have a raised pattern showing off the elaborate work adorned on it. There are bold kadas with a snake head and peacock silhouettes that are definite eye catchers. Also, the bamboo shoot design on bangles is very in at the moment. Postmodern square bangles with nice, sharp corners are a thing of beauty. Gold bangles with colourful stones compliment “lehengas” and "ghagras" rich in colour. A large variety of precious and semi-precious stones is used to bring in excitement to the bridal outfit.

Gold bangles come in Matte-finish for those who prefer elegance over glitter in traditional as well as modern designs. Rhodium finish gold bangles come in very creative designs. Lakshmi pearl kadas are thick, heavy gold bangles encrusted with rubies and pearls and having an old-look antique finish. Similarly, Peacock Ruby Kada come with rubies, emerald and stones. Polki Pearl Bangles look royal in a combination of pearls and polki diamonds. Pachi Gold Bangles are very popular studded with rubies and emeralds and even south sea pearls.

Adjustable gold Bangle with screws attached with screws is comfortable to wear as they come in two halves to open and close. These are made in large designs and come in various patterns. Gold spiral designs have always been in fashion and bangles made with spiral motifs are very popular and look truly beautiful. Bangles have always had traditional, cultural, religious and sentimental values. Bangles are here to stay; they will never go out of fashion. They enhance the grace, elegance, and beauty of the wearer. Therefore, they can't be considered as a mere piece of jewellery, but instead, they are an expression of femininity, and they go beyond class, creed or culture.