Maharashtrian traditional jewellery is known for simple yet bold designs. The compositions are meaningful and they have made important tapestry of most maharashtrian households from centuries. Some of the popular types of Maharashtrian jewellery include:
Bakuli Haar: Bakuli Haar, also known as "Vakula Mala," is a traditional necklace made with 5 petal simple floral motifs and tied them in line to make beautiful necklace. Many bakuli haar are available in 2 layers or more and have a size of 24 to 28 inches.
Overall, the Bakuli Haar is a beautiful and symbolic piece of jewelry that holds a special place in Maharashtrian culture and traditions.
Maharashtrian Silver Tanmani Necklace: The central pendant is called as “khod” by vernacular artisans. Its is usually a stone casing of either 5 or 7 stones, with capping of pearls on top side and also latkans of smaller pearls. the 5 or stones often adorned with precious stones like diamonds, rubies, or emeralds. The necklace is known for its versatility. IT can be worn on various occasions, from weddings to festivals. It is a symbol of Maharashtrian culture and heritage, reflecting the region's rich traditions in jewellery making.
Maharashtrian Nath: The Maharashtrian Nath is a traditional nose ring worn by women all over the world. It is typically large, Gold wired and tied with pearls and ruby in the center how traditional maharashtra Nath would look like. With time and region there have been many variations and versions made the same. It's often worn on special occasions or as part of traditional attire. It is also a significant piece of jewelry in Maharashtrian culture, reflecting the region's rich heritage and traditions.
Bugadi (Ear Ornaments): The Bugadi are worn in the helix region of the ear and show an incredible variety in their designs Each has a thin and long plug which is hollow and has a screw. The screw has balls at each side which help secure the Bugadi in place. The ball under the helix is usually slightly bigger and shows variety in designs. The Bugadi are differentiated based on these designs.
Kudi: Kudi is generally circular sequence of 7 pearls of 7 rubies set in collate or tied together to form most simple yet beautiful ear ornament. Kudi is a traditional Maharashtrian earring that is typically gold and pearl or stone. It is characterized by its dome-like shape and intricate designs. Kudis are often worn in pairs and are considered auspicious.
Thushi: Thushi is a choker-style necklace made out of small lightweight handmade beads. The beads are made of gold and very artistically made. They are tied closely and form beautiful designs. It is made of gold beads and has a unique design. Sometimes, a thushi is also worn as a hair accessory, wrapped around a bun.
Toda: Toda is a traditional Maharashtrian earring that is worn on the lower part of the earlobe. It is usually a small, gold hoop earring that may be plain or embellished with beads or stones.
Ambada Veni: Ambada veni is a traditional Maharashtrian hair ornament worn on the head's side, near the ear. It is often made of gold and is intricately designed, with dangling beads or pearls.
Jodvi (Toe Rings): Married women in Maharashtra often wear toe rings, usually made of silver. They are considered auspicious and symbolize the marital status of the wearer.
These pieces of jewelry enhance the beauty of Maharashtrian women and hold deep cultural and traditional significance in Maharashtrian society.
These are just a few examples of the ear accessories worn by Maharashtrian women. The jewelry worn by Maharashtrian women is often symbolic and is an important part of their cultural identity.
Chitak - A traditional heritage design, this exquisite piece has been beautifully crafted from pure Hallmark Silver and stands apart with its unique character. Handcrafted in Kolhapur, these traditional Maharashtrian designs were mostly only crafted in pure Gold. Handcrafted in Kolhapur, these traditional Maharashtrian designs were mostly only crafted in pure Gold.
Bor mal - This jewellery piece has its existence since ancient time, earlier people used to create a necklace of natural material. But now in the modern time necklace are crafted from various metals.
Putli haar/Gathla - Putli Haar is a necklace with gold coins that has engraved Lakshmi motifs and is woven together in a silk braided Patwa cord. The Putli har / mala is a very special unique design of Necklace choker jewellery with coin type putli's of Lakshmi are woven n decorated with golden jari
Mangalsutra - Derived from the Sanskrit words; mangala; meaning auspicious and 'sutra' meaning thread, the mangalsutra is more than a mere adornment is an emblem of matrimonial bliss, signifying a woman's marital status and symbolizing the sacred bond between spouses. Traditionally, the black beads on a Mangalsutra are believed to ward off negative energy and protect the marriage.
Revdi mal, Lakshmi haar, Vajratik, Chinchpeti, Kolhapuri Saaj, Mohan Mal, Rani Haar, Chandrahaar
Vaki - Inspired by the traditionally made arm-band nagotra/nagwaki. It is a very traditional arm band traditionally made in silver or gold.
Similarly, some traditional jewelry worn on the wrist are Patlya, Bangdi, Chuda, Pichodya Masoli & Virodi
Jhube( Jhumke) - Maharashtrian and Karnataki piece of jewelry that is loved by women of all generations. It is an integral part of gold jewelry too.
Phuli ( nosepin) - The history of nose piercing dates back thousands of years, with origins rooted in ancient cultures worldwide. In some societies, nose piercing symbolised social status, religious beliefs, and even rites of passage. For instance, in ancient India, nose piercing reflected a woman's married status.
Kambarparra - In Indian regional language this ornament is known by different name like in Tamil Kamarband is known as Oddiyanam or Ottiyanam, Vaddanam in Telegu, Tagdi in Bengal and Kamar patta in Marathi. The designs & pattern of this ornament is different as per the geographical boundary and regions and also Challa is worn in the waist.
