Let’s Begin
Jewelry in India has never been just an accessory. It is history, heritage, and artistry passed down through generations. From the extravagant Mughal courts to the regal palaces of Rajasthan, royal Indian jewelry styles tell stories of power, beauty, and devotion. Today, these centuries-old designs inspire modern collections, blending tradition with everyday elegance. At Ethnik, that’s exactly why we exist: to help women in Australia feel that same connection to the richness of India, even if they’re miles away.
If you’ve ever wondered why certain jewelry designs feel timeless, here’s a deep dive into the royal Indian jewelry traditions that still shape what we wear today.
1. Polki: The Eternal Glow of Uncut Diamonds
Polki jewelry originated in the Mughal era, crafted using uncut, natural diamonds set in pure gold. Because the stones are unrefined, Polki has a soft glow instead of a sharp sparkle, symbolizing authenticity and luxury. Royals wore these pieces to display wealth and prestige, and artisans perfected the art over centuries. Historically, Polki was reserved for royalty, worn by queens in their grand durbars and palaces.
Today: Polki-inspired jewelry is adored by brides who want both tradition and elegance in one piece. Designers now blend Polki with lighter frames, making it more wearable at modern events.
Ethnik’s note: When I first held a Polki set, I was mesmerized by how it looked both rustic and regal at once. It reminded me of celebrations which take place in India where brides would wear heirloom pieces with pride. This inspired me to bring similar designs to Ethnik.
2. Kundan: The Art of Setting Stones in Gold
Kundan is one of the oldest jewelry-making techniques in India, where gemstones are embedded into 24k gold foil. This painstaking process gave the gems unmatched brilliance. It has a glass-like finish that shines brightly under light. Traditionally, it symbolized prosperity and celebration. It flourished in the Mughal courts, but Rajasthan became its true hub, with families passing down the craft across generations.
Today: Kundan designs are still central to bridal sets but are also adapted into minimal chokers, cocktail earrings, and layering pieces. They bridge the gap between heritage and everyday wear.
Ethnik’s note: For me, Kundan represents balance, tradition meeting elegance. That’s why our upcoming launch includes designs inspired by this craftsmanship but made lighter and more wearable for today’s lifestyle.
3. Meenakari: The Enamel of the Royals
Introduced by Mughals and perfected in Rajasthan, Meenakari jewelry is famous for its enamel painting in bright reds, greens, blues, and whites. Meenakari is the art of fusing vibrant enamel colours into metal surfaces. It was often combined with Polki or Kundan, making each piece vibrant and unique. Rajput queens adored these designs because the enamel art added colour and character.
Today: Meenakari is still used in bridal pieces but is also popular in fusion jewelry. Think of your dainty studs, pendants, and rings with pops of enamel that pairs beautifully with Western outfits.
Ethnik’s note: I love how Meenakari brings playfulness into heritage. This craft turned jewelry into tiny canvases of art. Which can be so versatile when styling it into an outfit.
4. Temple Jewelry: Where Divinity Meets Design
South India gave the world temple jewelry, originally created to adorn idols of deities. Each piece was made with motifs of gods, goddesses, lotuses, or peacocks, making them not just ornaments, but symbols of devotion. Dancers later adopted them, followed by brides, and the tradition spread across India.
Today: Temple-inspired jewelry carries spiritual significance and is often worn at religious ceremonies and weddings. Lightweight temple-inspired pendants and jhumkas are gaining popularity among younger generations.
Ethnik’s note: When I see Temple jewelry, I think of legacy. It’s not just adornment; it’s passing down blessings. That’s why in Ethnik, we always aim for jewelry that carries meaning, not just beauty.
5. Jadau: A Mughal Masterpiece
Jadau jewelry is another Mughal gift to Indian heritage. Crafted by embedding stones directly into gold without soldering, it required highly skilled artisans. Each piece could take weeks or months to finish, making it a prized possession of royal families. Jadau often combined Polki and Meenakari, creating multi-dimensional works of art.
Today: Jadau remains synonymous with luxury. Many families consider it an heirloom investment, passed down across generations as a symbol of continuity and legacy.
Ethnik’s note: Jadau jewellery to me is the love and craft behind a piece. It showcases the skill and time placed into a single piece and that is what creates the magic and durability for the piece to be passed down.
From Polki and Kundan to Meenakari, Temple, and Jadau, these royal Indian styles continue to inspire modern collections. They are not just jewelry; they are storytelling, cultural heritage, and artistry preserved in gold and stone.
Whether you’re a bride-to-be, a jewelry enthusiast, or someone who loves timeless style, these traditions remind us of India’s legacy of craftsmanship.
If you’re looking for modern pieces inspired by these traditions? Stay tuned for Ethnik’s “Modern Heritage” collection launches on 25 August 2025.