Jewelry continues to be a mark of culture and art in India. Out of the several pieces of traditional jewelry worn in India, Polki jewelry is perhaps the most unique and recognizable. With its signature look of raw, uncut diamonds, Polki is both a fashion statement and a heritage craftsmanship of ancient times, connecting many generations.
Polki jewelry is characterized by its heavy chokers and grand, shapely pieces worn by brides, often feature adornments with a vintage aesthetic. But how is Polki jewelry different from Kundan or diamond jewelry? What makes it so valuable?
This comprehensive guide aims to address these questions.
Polki jewelry is a form of traditional Indian jewelry that is constructed from uncut, unrefined natural diamonds. In contrast to contemporary diamonds that undergo cutting and faceting, Polki diamonds are kept in their unrefined and natural state. For centuries, traditional techniques have been used to set these diamonds in gold.
Polki jewelry showcases an ethereal ancient charm with a regal touch. Each piece is one of a kind with a rustic gleam that speaks of heritage, rather than the bold glitter reminiscent of most jewelry.
Polki jewelry is known for its beauty, especially in bridal jewelry, and is considered one of the most luxurious forms of traditional adornment in India.
The history of Polki jewelry goes back more than 2,500 years, during the Mughal era, as Polki jewelry emerged with the uncut diamond jewelry brought over by the Mughals, along with the craftsmanship of the uncut diamond jewelry from Rajasthan and Gujarat.
Mughal Royals: Emperors and queens were decked in elaborate Polki jewelry and could be seen adorned with it.
Rajasthan Royals: The Rajput royalty incorporated Polki jewelry in their weddings and celebrations, actively popularizing the style.
Modern Brides: Polki remains on the list of favorites for Indian brides, as it provides a regal and timeless appearance.
The construction of Polki jewelry is a lengthy sequence of steps that requires a great amount of skill:
Polki uncut diamond jewelry begins with making a frame and cutting it with gold 22K, the forming gold base strucure.
Stone Setting: The Polki is set in its natural form, retaining its shape without any changes.
Stone Backing: The reflection and shine is enhanced by a gold or silver foil layer being placed on the back side of the stones.
Fine Detailing: Decorations such as pearls, meenakari, or other gemstones, known as mid-work, can be added for the finishing layering.
The meticulous Polki making process means each item has its own distinct identity.
Polki jewelry has several distinct characteristics:
Uncut Diamonds – Neglected for refinement, raw diamonds in their unprocessed form.
Rustic Radiance – Softer, more old-fashioned than modern, and polished diamonds.
Gold Framework – Usually Set in 22 K gold for its durable quality and richness.
Hand Crafted – Each item is uniquely designed and made, making it different from other jewelry.
Luxurious but Weighty – Polki jewelry is characterized by its weighty and elaborate pieces, perfect for weddings.
Polki jewelry is multi-faceted and is designed in a variety of styles:
Polki Necklaces – Bold bridal necklaces start from chokers and range up to layered rani haars.
Polki Earrings – Uncut diamond embellished chandbalis, jhumkas, and dangler styles.
Polki Maang Tikka – Bridal forehead jewelry.
Polki Bangles and Kadas – Polki embellished heavy gold bangles.
Polki Hathphools and rings – Bridal hand harnesses and detailed finger rings.
Polki Bridal Sets – Sets contain the necklace, earrings, maang tikka, and bangles.
Kundan jewelry is often mistaken for Polki, but they are different pieces.
Feature Polki Jewellery Kundan Jewellery
Stones Uncut natural diamonds Glass imitations (imitations)
Shine Rustic, antique glow Bright and glassy shine
To ensure Polki remains polished and retains its brilliance, certain measures must be undertaken:
Protection from Wetness: Exposure of moisture and water can severely damage Polki foil.
Storing: To avoid scratches, it is crucial to place your jewelry in soft pouches.
Polki Jewelry: Why Brides Prefer It
Polki is a tradition and a jewelry piece, which is synonymous with Indian bride’s identity. Polki is always selected because:
It bestows a regal look to brides.
It Easily complements heavily embroidered lehengas and sarees.
It can be treasured as a family heirloom.
It bestows added value as a heritage piece to the wedding trousseau.
In addition to the timeless styles that are in demand, creativity is also finding its way into Polki jewelry.
Sets of Polki that are not heavy: Tailored to suit the contemporary brides who value ease over heavy jewelry.
Polki is a fusion: Combining Polki with diamonds, pearls, or other precious stones.
Jewelry in Pastel Polki: Meenakari is done in mint green, blush, and lavender hues.
Polki that is Minimal: Casual wear included small sized earrings and pendants.
In Vedic astrology, diamonds are governed by the planet Venus, which embodies beauty, love, and luxury. Wearing Polki is said to:
Increase one’s beauty and appeal
Invite prosperity and wealth
Fortify the bonds of marital love
Shield the wearer from negative forces
The claim of wearing it brings charm aids elevated charm to it its cultural and aesthetic appeal.
Polki serves a greater purpose than beauty. It is also a form of investment, as its main constituent diamonds ensure lasting value. Polki jewelry often appreciates over time due to the high demand for antique Polki pieces among collectors.
For Historical and Wealth purposes, the Jewelry serves the purpose of owning a piece of history. Polki in particular the jewelry is historically valuable, yet serves a functional purpose of retaining wealth.
Q1. What is Polki jewelry made of?
Gold often serves as the main constituent of Polki jewelry, as it is made of uncut diamonds, supported with foil backing and enamel work.
Q2. Is Polki jewelry real diamond?
Yes. Unlike Kundan which substitutes glass for gemstones, Polki real uncut diamond constituent ensures absolute value.
Q3. Why is Polki jewelry so expensive?
Kundan glass is displayed through intricate craftsmanship and expensive styles of displaying gemstones. Utilizing uncut diamonds of high value is the pricniple which justifies Kundan’s mark of expensive jewelry.
Q4. How is Polki different from Kundan?
Polki = real uncut diamonds.
Kundan = glass stones set in gold or silver.
Q5. Can Polki jewellery be worn daily?
Polki jewellery is rarely worn on a day-to-day basis, thanks to its expensive and extravagant nature. Still, there are some lightweight Polki designs which can be worn daily.
Conclusion
Polki jewellery is an exquisite work of art, a piece of heritage, and a bit of luxury all rolled into one. The uncut diamonds, the careful craftsmanship, and Polki’s regal charm makes it one of the most loved forms of Indian jewellery.
For a bride, a jewellery lover, or a savvy buyer, it’s more than simply an ornament, Polki jewellery is a legacy. It is a way of owning a fragment of history, culture, and beauty which is, simply, timeless.
At Earthly Elegance, every handcrafted piece—from earrings to unique anklets—is designed with love. Check Beautiful Designs Korean Jewellery, Accessories, or Polymer Clay Earrings
What are earrings with silver tops? An Accessory That Will Never Go Out of Style…
Is Jewellery Business Profitable? Complete Guide What makes people wonder if the jewelry business…
Which Finger to Wear Silver Ring for Good Luck What does it mean to…
Stylish Silver Ring Design for Men Why do men like stylish silver rings so much?…
Benefits of Ear Piercing for Male: A Complete Guide What is Ear Piercing for Male…
What is a Paithani Saree and why is jewelry important? What Jewellery To Wear With…