In jewellery trade terms, 'Antique jewellery set' describes a piece that was made at least 100 years ago. That means that any jewellery made around 1920 or before is technically antique.
The value of antique jewelry is often affected and dependent on three factors, namely – condition, time period and the type of jewelry. The older the jewel piece, the more is its value. Condition: The resale or antique jewellery exchange largely depends on the condition of the antique jewel.
Antique jewellery set are becoming highly wanted in the modern world because of their time-worn looks, state-of-the-art workmanship, and high quality gems used as well as their one of a kind rusty look.
Different Antique Indian Jewelry Styles
1. Tarakashi
This unique art form developed in the late 1500s in Orissa and is a modified version of Greek Filigree work. It displays a unique combination of utility as well as beauty and is inspired from Nature. Most tarakashi designs feature intricate elements of flora and fauna in fine silver wire. Customarily a “charkha” was used to swirl out brooches, necklaces, hoops, and pendants. But now even tarakashi rings, toe-rings, anklets and hairpins are becoming highly popular because of their exclusive antiquated design.
2.Thewa
Dating back to the 16th century, the Thewa art of making jewelry is still very popular in parts of Rajasthan and Gujarat. Infusing the audacious lustre of 23K gold with festive vibrant beads, this design was first made by a Pratapgarhia goldsmith Nathu Lal Sonewal. Soon after, it caught the eye of Maharaja Sumant Singh, during whose reign this art form flourished.
3. Pachchikam
Origination from the Kutch of Gujarat, this art form derives its name from a Gujarati word “Pachchigar” meaning a goldsmith. Pachchikam jewelry is made using soft shimmery metals preferably platinum or (now) silver. Usually, glass beads and semiprecious metals add colour to Pachchikam rings, bangles, anklets, trinkets, jhumkis and pendants.
4. Meenakari
Introduced by Raja Mansingh, this artistic jewelry form uses enamelling to amp up the aesthetic coefficient of the ornament. Typically, this art form is fairly laborious and is usually kept on lac sticks while the designs are etched on it. Later, suitable coloured enamel dust is poured into these grooves and then heated until the dust liquefies and travels all around the groove. Then, the prepared design is set in silver or gold to complete the adornment.
5. Kundankari
Incorporating the extravagance of diamonds, rubies, sapphires and other gemstones, this form of art originated in the Rajasthani and Gujarati royal courts in the early 19th century. Kundan’s charm and unique claw setting are definitely hard to miss. Also, stone encrusted Kundankari jewels are often lined with vividly colourful Meena. Kundan wristlets, necklaces, earrings and anklets are even today used by modern fashion-conscious brides.
6. Victorian
Influenced by the European style jewels brought and adorned by the British invaders, the Victorian style jewels are made using gold, platinum or silver and decorated with inexpensive garnets, corals and other commonly available materials. These articles usually bear an inimitable Anglo-Indian charm which has made them highly popular among the Gen Y. Inexpensive Victorian brooches, bracelets and hair adornments are used by Indian girls even today.
How To Care Antique Jewelries
To preserve the unique rustic charm of vintage jewelry, it is essential to take proper care of it. For instance extensive exposure to dust, sunlight or rain can make the jewel lose its earthy lure. Similarly, rough handling or vigorous scrubbing, brushing or washing can instantly damage it and take away its relic appeal. Therefore, it is important to store all jewelry items safely in anhydrous conditions.
