Nearly 600 pieces of art jewellery inspired by the royal dynasties of ancient India are on display at the jewellery expo put up by Art Karat. Studded with glittering precious stones and embedded in striking silver and sparkling gold, each individual jewel exudes a royal feel. “The idea is to communicate the tradition and emotion that was passed on to the daughter by a mother through her jewels. Jewellery is an inheritance and it should be nurtured and cherished,” says Asha Kamal Modi, the chief designer of Art Karat. “This collection is based on the antique jewellery worn by the Maharajas and Ranis of various dynasties. Some of the designs are extinct and have been brought back to life.”
The collection features heavy chokers, chaand baali earrings that are shaped like a half moon, kamarbands and baajubands , bracelets, anklets and an exclusive range of rings. Showing an elaborately done stone-ring, Vikas, the personal relations Manager, Art Karat, says, “These are cocktail rings that are worn in high profile parties. Yet they are ethnic pieces and can be teamed up with traditional dresses.” “There is a rage for earrings among women of all age groups. Chaand balis originated from the Nizam dynasty. Jhumkas are much in fashion and people even wear it with western outfits.”
A range of kundan jewellery including bangles studded with ruby and sapphire, armlets made of amethyst and emerald, is the highlight of the show. Exclusive masterpieces costing over Rs. 1,50,000 are also on display. This includes the haar made of four strings of ruby and a gold-plated pendant lined with fresh-water cultured pearls. The pendant has the image of Lord Jagannath of Puri. Some of the chokers are deoxidized to give an antique finish.
The star attraction of the expo is the set of necklaces designed after the royal jewels of the King of Patiala in Punjab. Pendants resembling the typical turban jewel of the King and bangles that look like the royal bracelet steal the whims of any onlooker. Special limited editions are also available. Zulekha necklace made of real corals is one such as each floral motif is separately crafted and joined to form the whole piece. Enamel work, filigree and limestone base jewellery are the other varieties up for sale. The price range starts from Rs.5000. Jewellery bought here can be exchanged within one year with 75 per cent cash back. Life-long free post-purchase service is also offered.
The expo is on at UrbanSpice Gallery, K.K. Nagar, till August 25 and is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. For more details, visit www.artkarat.com or call 09560003516.
