Everything You Need to Know About Kundan Stones for Jewellery Making

1 Key Takeaways

• Kundan jewellery uses 24k gold and is often decorated with glass stones and precious gems like diamonds. It comes from Rajasthan, India, where royal families first wore it.
• Making Kundan requires skilled craftspeople. They work through steps like creating a gold framework, setting gemstones, applying colours on the backside for beauty, and giving a final polish. This process can take 3 to 4 months for just one piece.
• Besides traditional pieces like necklaces and bracelets, Kundan jewellery includes rings designed with nature and architecture-inspired patterns. These items are perfect for weddings.
• To keep Kundan jewellery looking good, clean it gently with a soft cloth after wearing. Store each piece separately to avoid scratches. Also use dry places for storage to prevent tarnish from moisture.
• Spotting genuine Kundan means looking for high-quality craftsmanship, real gemstones set in pure gold foil between them and their mountings. True pieces are not magnetic and cost significantly more due to the materials used.

2 What is Kundan?

Kundan is a special type of Indian jewellery that uses 24k gold. Craftsmen shape it around a core of wax before adding bits of glass to make it shine. ² This technique was first made in Rajasthan for royal families.

The name “Kundan” itself means very pure, referring to the high-quality gold used. Such pieces often feature precious gems like diamonds and emeralds, making them perfect for brides on their wedding day. ¹

The process creates necklaces, bracelets, rings, and more that look elegant and graceful. Each piece shows off India’s rich history and craftsmanship passed down through generations.

Crafting Kundan jewellery involves skilled hands turning pure gold into timeless pieces adorned with beautiful gemstones.

3 The Craftsmanship of Kundan Jewellery

Crafting Kundan jewellery involves a precise process of embedding gemstones in gold foil. This intricate craftsmanship requires skilled goldsmiths and careful selection of high-quality gemstones.

Process of crafting Kundan

The process of making Kundan jewellery is an art passed down through generations, taking about 3 to 4 months for a small piece. ² Expert craftsmen carry out each step with great care to ensure the final piece is exquisite.

1. Ghaat: Goldsmiths create a basic skeleton or framework using 22 karat gold. This serves as the foundation for the Kundan piece, whether it be a necklace, bangle, or earring.
2. Paadh: This step involves preparing the base where gemstones will sit. Craftsmen ensure this base is smooth to hold stones securely.
3. Khudai: Skilled workers set gemstones into the gold framework. They use tools to carefully place stones like rubies and diamonds into their designated spots. ³
4. Meenakari: Artists apply natural colours to the backside of the jewellery in detailed patterns. This age-old technique adds beauty even to parts not immediately visible.
5. Pakai: The placement of gold foil between the gems and their mountings happens here. This secures the stones further and brings out their colour against the gold background.
6. Chillai: The final polish ensures that every part of the jewellery shines brilliantly, highlighting both the gemstones and intricate gold work.

Each stage requires specialists who bring years of training and passion to their craft, mirroring techniques dating back to the Rajput and Mughal era in Indian jewellery history. ²

Gemstones used in Kundan Jewellery

Kundan jewellery shines with pearls, diamonds, topazes, sapphires, emeralds, rubies, jades, amethysts, agates, crystals and garnets. ⁴ These precious stones make each piece stand out.

Unlike polki jewellery that uses raw uncut diamonds, Kundan pieces feature glass stones and coloured gemstones for a vibrant look. ¹ Crafters often set these gems in 925 sterling silver to create beautiful designs accessible to more people.

Each gemstone adds a unique touch to the intricate designs of Kundan Indian jewellery. The careful selection ensures every necklace, bracelet or ring catches the eye. By choosing different colours and types of gemstones like green emerald or deep blue sapphire, builders can craft pieces perfect for any event from weddings to fashion shows. ⁴

4 Types of Kundan Jewellery

Kundan jewellery comes in various types, including necklaces, bracelets, and rings. Each piece is a beautiful display of intricate craftsmanship and timeless elegance.

Necklaces

Necklaces made from Kundan showcase intricate designs with precious gemstones. ² Craftsmen use 24 carat gold to set these stones. ⁵ You can find real Kundan necklaces on Amazon India, complete with quality certifications from the jewellers.

Bollywood actresses often wear elaborate Kundan necklaces, making them very popular. These necklaces come in different styles such as antique, Nakshatra CZ, enamel, temple, bridal, contemporary, tribal and kids jewellery.

Kundan necklaces represent a rich tradition of Indian jewellery making.

Bracelets

Kundan bracelets stand out as a top choice among Indian jewellery for brides. These pieces are lighter and offer elegance that perfectly matches bridal attire. Famous people often choose to wear them, highlighting their popularity.

This type of bracelet has become a must-have for weddings due to its graceful design. ²

Crafters use gemstones in making Kundan bracelets, making each piece unique. They follow the pakai process, ensuring the highest quality. This tradition comes from the Indus Valley civilisation, showing deep roots in history.

Today, Jaipur city is known for crafting these beautiful accessories. People looking for genuine kundan bangles or bracelets should check for handmade craftsmanship and real gemstones to ensure they get an authentic piece. ¹

Rings

Rings in Kundan jewellery stand out for being made from 24k pure gold, reflecting a rich tradition. ¹ The creation of these rings follows detailed steps such as ghaat making, khudayi, meenakari, and jadayi to place precious gem stones securely. ² Nature and architecture inspire the common designs seen on these pieces, with floral patterns being especially loved. These beauties are not just ornaments but masterpieces that shine at Indian weddings, complementing brides’ attire perfectly.

Spotting real Kundan rings among imitations requires knowledge about their craftsmanship details. ¹ Genuine pieces showcase intricate work with a focus on quality and design that imitation kundan jewellery often lacks.

To ensure you’re getting the real deal, look for the complexity of motifs and the purity of gold used — hallmarks of true Kundan excellence favoured by jewelers across India. ²

5 Maintaining Kundan Jewellery

To maintain Kundan jewellery, gently wipe it with a soft cloth after wearing to remove oils and sweat. Storing in separate pouches can prevent scratches and preserve the shine of the pieces.

For more useful tips on caring for your precious Kundan jewellery, delve deeper into our insightful blog.

Tips for daily care

Kundan jewellery needs careful handling to keep its beauty. Here are some tips to help you look after your Indian jewellery every day.

1. Put on Kundan jewellery last when dressing up. This avoids contact with perfumes, hair sprays, and body lotions that can harm it.
2. Always use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. ⁷
3. Store your Kundan pieces in a dry, air-tight container or wrap them in soft cloth to prevent damage from moisture and dust.
4. Remove any red tarnish with an eraser gently. This happens due to oxidation or adhesives in boxes. ⁶
5. For a deeper clean, mix warm water with baking soda, salt, and detergent in a bowl lined with aluminium foil. Soak the jewellery briefly then rinse.
6. After cleaning with water, dry the pieces completely to avoid any moisture that could lead to tarnish.
7. Regularly dust Kundan earrings or necklaces lightly with talcum powder using a soft brush; this keeps them shining.
   

   8 Kundan rakhadi and bracelets should be inspected for loose stones regularly; secure them if necessary.
   

   9 Avoid storing different types of jewellery together; Kundan can get scratched by harder gems or metals.
   

   10 If not wearing it daily, air out the storage box occasionally to prevent humidity build-up which can tarnish the metal parts of Indian jewellery.

Following these steps ensures your Kundan jewellery maintains its sparkle and remains an elegant part of your collection for years to come.

Long-term storage solutions

To maintain Kundan jewellery for years to come, long-term storage solutions are crucial. Here’s how you can ensure the longevity of your precious pieces:

1. Store in a separate box: Place Kundan jewellery in individual pouches or compartments to prevent tangling and scratching. ¹
2. Use silica gel packets: Include silica gel packets in the storage box to absorb moisture and prevent tarnishing. ¹
3. Keep away from direct sunlight: Prevent fading of gemstones by storing Kundan jewellery away from direct sunlight.
4. Avoid moisture and humidity: Store Kundan jewellery in a dry place to prevent oxidation and maintain its shine. ⁶
5. Use soft fabric: Line the storage box with soft fabric to prevent scratching and damage to the jewellery.

Long-term storage plays a vital role in preserving the beauty and quality of Kundan jewelry.

6 Identifying Genuine Kundan Jewellery

Distinguishing real Kundan jewellery from fake can be challenging. Look for intricate designs, high-quality gemstones, and careful craftsmanship to ensure authenticity. To learn more about identifying genuine Kundan jewellery, keep reading.

How to differentiate between real and fake Kundan

To distinguish real Kundan from fake, check for tarnishing – a sign of the latter. ⁵ Genuine Kundan isn’t magnetic, so you can use a magnet to test it. Real pieces cost between INR 50,000 and INR 5,00,000 due to their pure gold content and precious stones.

Imitation versions are available starting at INR 2,000. Always buy from certified jewellers for authentic pieces. ⁸

7 Conclusion

Kundan stones are a part of traditional Indian jewelry making and have deep cultural significance. They are made from 24k gold with wax and glass, often adorned with gemstones like diamonds, emeralds, and rubies.

The craftsmanship is meticulous and takes several months to create these exquisite pieces. Whether it’s necklaces, bracelets, or rings, Kundan jewelry offers a wide range of options for both special occasions and daily wear.

It’s important to care for them properly to maintain their beauty over time.

Kundan stones hold a special place in the world of jewelry making due to their intricate craftsmanship and timeless appeal. From their origins in Rajasthan to becoming popular worldwide today, they continue to enchant people with their elegance and cultural significance.

Their versatility makes them suitable for both everyday wear and special events – from weddings to formal gatherings.

8 FAQs

1. What are Kundan Stones used in jewellery making?

Kundan stones, key elements in Indian jewellery, are precious gems that add elegance to imitation jewellery and traditional pieces like the Mangalsutra.

2. How does Kundan Polki relate to Kundan stones in Indian Jewellery?

Kundan Polki refers to a type of Indian Jewellery where uncut diamonds are set using gold foils, combining with Kundan stones for an exquisite look.

3. What is the history behind Kundan Stones?

The use of Kundan stones dates back to the Indus Valley Civilisation, making them a significant part of Indian cultural heritage.

4. Can I incorporate Kundan Stones into my fiance’s Mangalsutra design?

Yes! Infusing your fiance’s mangalsutra design with kundans can offer an elegant upgrade while preserving its traditional essence.

References

1. ^ https://www.cierojewels.com/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-about-kundan-stone (2022-06-14)
2. ^ https://www.vogue.in/fashion/content/kundan-jewellery-history-technique-sunita-shekhawat-interview (2019-08-16)
3. ^ https://www.vam.ac.uk/articles/traditional-indian-jewellery-making
4. ^ https://besunset.com/en-gb/blogs/noticias/what-is-kundan-the-stone-of-india
5. ^ https://www.tarinika.in/blogs/news/kundan-jewellery-a-complete-guide-to-the-age-old-craft-and-beautiful-style-of-kundan-jewellery (2022-08-30)
6. ^ https://www.aurusjewels.com/blogs/news/kundan-jewelry-care-101-how-to-keep-your-pieces-in-perfect-condition
7. ^ https://medium.com/@pitarrabysonerii/the-ultimate-guide-to-caring-for-your-kundan-jewellery-402600ae5a24
8. ^ https://www.rosecjewels.co.uk/blogs/jewelry-information-blogs/polki-and-kundan-jewellery-how-to-spot-the-differences (2023-04-19)

[Representative images via AI]