Like people of every region and place, Punjabis also have some specific jewellery that they wear on their wedding day. This jewellery is special not just in design, but also because of the magnificent history it has of its own. With the passing generations the Punjabi jewellery that each bride wears might not have changed, but the design has surely modernised with age. Let us start by identifying the Punjabi jewellery that every bride needs starting from the head. The first one is the ‘Maang Tikka’ or ‘Matha Patti’. For a Punjabi bride, it is often an oversized ornament, occupying a central position.
Being Regal
These are generally Kundan and embellished Maang Tikkas, though a planer piece can also work if you are simply trying to rock it with a heavy, embroidered dupatta. The difference between the two is that Maang Tikka, is basically a singular pendant that hangs from your head, Matha Patti, on the other hand, is a little more elaborate one, as with the pendant it also has two chains for each side of the head. Both of these look equally beautiful. Then, comes the Nath. The usual Punjabi Naths are of two types, one is ‘Shikarpuri Nath’ and the other is the ‘Laung’. The Shikarpuri nath is a huge nose ring with a small pendant, which is attached to the chain of the Nath. This Nath looks very elegant and delicate. The ‘laung’ is a stud, or a nose pin. These nose pins can be designer pieces, or can even be gemstones studs.
Ear Accessories & Necklaces
Earrings are one of the common and beautiful pieces of jewellery, and it is no different in Punjabi jewellery. Their ethnic version of earrings are Balis, these are hanging earrings, which can be either crescent or round in shape. You can opt for Chandbalis, combination Baalis with Jhumka accents and hoop earrings. Another is the ‘choker’, a type of necklace that is a part of the Punjabi jewellery. The choker necklace looks extravagant and rich, and the best part is it can be worn alone or paired with a long necklace if you want. Based on the function that you are wearing this piece to you may either choose to go for a standalone choker necklace or combine it with a Rani Haar.
The Raani Haar is quite close to a Satlada in looks, but falls in a U-shape, unlike a Satlada necklace. This necklace looks classy and evergreen and can be paired up with different necklaces too. The ‘Hath Phool’ is a piece that brings attention to your hands and makes them look delicate in the process. ‘Kada’ or ‘Chudi’ is a piece of jewellery fascinated by the Punjabi brides. Nothing shouts a Punjabi bride more than a bride wearing ‘Kalire’. These umbrella-shaped ornaments are supposed to hang from the brides Chuda, and she is supposed to wear it throughout her wedding day. Though earlier on Kalires were made out of more natural elements, in today’s date they can range from being made out of pearls to pure gold.
Choodas & Rings
Like Kaliras, Choodas are also a very important part of the Punjabi jewellery. It has two colours of bangles, which are usually red and white, but nowadays the red can be replaced by other tones. The special thing about the Chooda is that it signifies both a bride and a newly wedded bride, as a bride is not supposed to take her Chooda off till at least 40 days of her marriage. For Punjabi brides, an ‘Angoothi’ is not just an engagement ring but is a beautiful piece of Punjabi jewellery that can have a rich history behind it.
These rings are pieces of art that are beautifully crafted for each bride. On the other hand, ‘Pajebs’ is a very romantic piece of jewellery. Pajeb has Ghungroo on them. It is certainly a dream to walk around wearing one. Make that sweet noise in our wake. Each piece of Punjabi jewellery is special and unique. Even if it may seem like they clash with other jewellery, each piece has a unique design. All these pieces together make a complete Punjabi bride, look stunning and exquisite.
Also Read: Diamond Jewellery: A Bride’s Best Friend
