The story of Indian jewellery goes back over 5000 years to the prehistoric past.  Historical records show that Indian jewellers mastered quite early the various skills required to make fine jewellery.  Silver making also has a long tradition in Nepal that dates back many centuries.  The varieties of tribal jewellery throughout the Indian sub-continent reflect the different ethnic groups that inhabit these diverse geographical regions.  Because of their isolation, many of these groups have developed their own styles of jewellery, making it easier to identify pieces. 



 

Indian, Nepalese and Tibetan jewellery is extremely symbolic – every aspect of each piece of jewellery signifies something.  The form, the shape of the parts, the abstract and non-representational patterns, and the representational imagery all convey specific meaning drawn from a vast pool of historical concepts, cultural beliefs, and current notions.  Some symbols are simple and direct, understood by everyone, others are art of the more esoteric Hindu and Buddhist iconography.  

In India, Nepal and Tibet, gemstones have a special significance – not only as objects of beauty and value, but also the source of supernatural powers.  According to myth and the ancient scriptures, it is believed that some stones bestow special healing powers on the wearer, while others ward off negative influences.  Although turquoise has appeared in the fashions and cultures of the world for centuries, it seems clear that turquoise has been considered a stone of life and good fortune for thousands of years.  It was believed to have healing powers, and regarded as a holy stone, a good-luck charm or talisman. 

Mineral gemstones are naturally growing rocks found in the earth’s surface.  There are 16 groups of mineral gemstones:  Beryl, Chrystoberyl, Corundum, Diamond, Feldspar, Garnet, Jade, Lapis Lazuli, Opal, Peridot, Quartz, Spinel, Topaz, Tourmaline, Turquoise, and Zircon.

Organic gemstones are not as durable as gemstones from minerals, and consist of four groups:  Amber, Coral, Jet and Pearl. more info