There is no doubt that Indian bridal jewelry is some of the most intricately beautiful in the world. But what many may not know is the deep cultural significance behind each piece. In this post, we will explore the history and meaning behind some of the most popular Indian bridal jewelry pieces. So if you or someone you know is getting married soon, be sure to read on for a little bit of wedding day inspiration!

From toe rings to payals and from mangalsutra to chooda, lets talk  about all the different types of Indian bridal jewelry

1. Mangalsutra

Mangalsutra, or the wedding chain, is a traditional Indian bridal ornament worn by married women. It is a necklace made of gold and silver, or both combined. It is strung with gold and special black beads. The mangalsutra is worn around the neck in a straight line with the ends joined together in a knot. The word mangalsutra comes from two words mangal which means auspiciousness and sutram, which means thread. The mangalasutram thus signifies auspiciousness and purity of thoughts.

The earliest accounts regarding the use of this ornament date back to around 1000 BC. This piece of jewelry was used as an ornament even before marriage and was worn by girls as well as young unmarried women who wanted their husbands to be prosperous and happy in life after marriage.

2. Haath Panja or “Hand-bracelet”

Ring bracelets, or Hath Panja as they’re known in Indian culture, are beautiful for their simplicity. A single ring is linked to a bracelet through a chain of smaller rings and worn on the hand like any other piece of jewelry.

The more simply designed single-stranded bracelets can be worn every day, while the more elaborately embellished ones are suitable for weddings and other ceremonial occasions.

The hand bracelet is believed to be auspicious as it signifies the union between a couple. It also symbolizes the giving of gifts on special occasions and is often given as a gift during weddings or engagements. Hand bracelets are believed to bring good luck and prosperity, especially when worn by married women.

There are many different types of hand bracelets available in India today; some have elaborate designs with intricate patterns, while others are simpler in their design. These rings can be made of gold or silver, but it’s important that you know which metal is most suitable for your skin tone and lifestyle. Hand ornaments are a very important and beautiful style of Indian bridal jewelry

3. Indian Mang Tikka or forehead bridal Jewelry

The maang tikka is worn to protect the bride from negative energy and evil eyes, but most importantly it signifies her union with the groom.

Maang tikka is a type of jewelry worn by Indian women on the forehead and is similar to head harnesses. Made of chains with a hook at one end and pendants on the other. The maang tikkas typically adorn brides as part of their wedding attire. But today many women wear them regularly in different variations

The pendant is meant to be hooked into the hair and hangs right in the middle of your forehead, where it will rest over one of six mystical energy centers known as chakras.

According to Hindu mythology, the hole in the center of this emblem represents a person’s third eye or inner vision. It is supposed to give one power over emotion and concentration.

The mang tikka has been a part of Indian bridal jewelry for centuries. This head ornament is made of gold or silver and studded with diamonds, emeralds, and other precious stones.

This beautiful head ornament is a traditional Indian wear for thousands of years and continues to play an important role in cultural traditions, especially at Indian weddings.

4. Chooda, red and white Indian bridal bangle jewelry

Chooda is a set of beautiful red and white bangles. At Punjabi weddings, the chooda ceremony is one of the most popular traditions. During this event, the bride-to-be adorns herself with a set of beautiful red and white bangles. In fact, no Punjabi bride can ever feel complete without it.

Traditionally, the bride is supposed to wear this chooda for at least 40 days after the wedding day.

Chuda is perhaps the most sentimental piece of a South Asian bride’s outfit. It is usually worn with statement bracelets, making it stand out from other pieces on the bride’s wedding day!

5. Passa

The word ‘passa’ is an Urdu word that means “one side.”

Passa is traditional, Mughal-era hair jewelry pinned to one side of the head (typically on the left), but can also be fixed in the center or right according to modern trends. Indian brides commonly accessorize the traditional headdress called a safa with maang tikkas (rosary-style necklaces). These days, passas can be paired with different bridal ensembles—and are perfect for themed sangeets and Mehendi ceremonies.

The timeless appeal of traditional wedding Passa remains an inspiration to modern brides.

6. Jumka

Jumkas are dangling earrings that typically hang from the bottom of the earlobe. They can be made of gold or silver, in various shapes and sizes. Jumkas are often worn with traditional bridal outfits as a part of the bride’s jewelry set. They can be pretty long and heavy or light and dainty, depending on personal choice.

Jhumkas are the classic statement jewelry that never goes out of fashion. One beautiful jhumka can make a bridal look complete and add charm to it.

Jhumkas are usually worn in Mehendi ceremonies, sangeets, and weddings. It is common to see brides wearing jhumkas on their wedding day to complement their outfits.

Traditionally Indian brides would wear gold jumkas but now you can find jumkas made from various materials such as silver, white gold, and even rose gold. Jhumkas are also worn by women of all ages, not just brides. You can wear them with any kind of outfit or occasion.

7. Mathapatti

Mathapatti is also called head-chain.  The term is derived from two words; ‘Matha’ meaning forehead and ‘Patti’ which mean a strap or a band for the forehead. It is traditional head jewelry. Matha Patti is an integral part of an Indian bride’s costume

There is a multitude of gorgeous designs and patterns available for both the extravagant bride who loves bling, as well as those looking for something more refined. No wonder brides have been swearing by this unique accessory on their wedding day!

8. Nath or nosering

It is an integral must-have piece of Jewelry for an Indian bride. Nath is a nose ring that is worn by many Indian women. It is worn on one side or both sides of the nose. This piece of jewelry has been used in India for ages and it is an important part of any Indian bride’s wedding attire. The traditional Nath or Nose Ring comes in various styles and designs such as Plain gold-plated with diamonds, plain silver with diamonds, or even plain gold or silver without any stones at all!

The Nath has a long history in India, dating back to ancient times when it was worn as a symbol of royalty.

9. Payal or anklets

Payal is another must-have piece of jewelry for an Indian bride. It is a traditional Indian ornament worn on the ankles by women. It comes in various styles and designs such as Plain gold-plated with diamonds, plain silver with diamonds, or even plain gold or silver without any stones at all! The Payal has a long history in India, dating back to ancient times when it was worn as a symbol of royalty.

Payals come in all shapes and sizes. They can be worn with a matching set of earrings, nose rings, and bindis. Usually, brides wear them on both ankles and some of them wear them on one ankle. Payals are a must-have piece of jewelry for Indian brides.

10. Toe Rings.

Another important piece of traditional Indian bridal jewelry is the toe ring. The toe ring is worn on the toes of both feet, and most women wear it on their left foot. This jewelry piece is made from gold, silver, or other metals and can be plain or ornate.

Some toe rings have small bells attached to them for additional noise when walking.

Toe rings are must-have jewelry for Indian brides  This is a traditional Indian wedding footwear accessory that symbolizes the marital status of a bride.

Conclusion

To modernize Indian bridal jewelry, they are designed in such a way that you can wear them to any party or occasion. They add extra elegance and sophistication to the overall dressing up of an individual.

So, if you want to add a touch of Indian traditional jewelry pieces to your look and feel like a Bollywood star, we suggest trying out some of the following designs. Whether you’re dressing up for an event or just accenting a casual outfit, any of these traditional Indian jewelry items will make you look and feel beautiful. Have you ever worn traditional Indian bridal jewelry? Let us know in the comments below!

Looking for Indian bridal Jewelry? Browse our directory here.

---

---

Disclaimer: The information and advice contained in our articles are intended for general informational purposes only. The content on our site does not provide any medical advice or established facts, and only reflects the opinion of writers.