jewellery in India is known for its rich Indian culture, heritage, and diversity of history not only India is also famous for its alluring craftsmanship which can be seen in its traditional piece of jewellery. The people of India are passionate lovers of a wide range of jewellery like meenakari jewellery, Diamond jewellery, gold jewellery and an endless list of jewellery. From film stars to normal households the first choice of jewellery for the wedding is meenakari bridal jewellery.
Peek into the story of the ancient art of Meenakari
The beautifully crafted art of meenakari showcases the vibrant colour with a brilliant design that looks so bold and traditional. So how and from where does this craftsmanship come? Let's look into its history.
This craftsmanship is a Persian creation
the meenakari work originally came from Persia. The word meenakari is a Persian word originally called “mina” or “Minoo” which means “heaven” or the vibrant azure colour of heaven. This Persian style can be seen even today in modern meenakari jewellery.
How was meenakari introduced to India?
During the 16th century, this work of art was introduced by Raja Ram Singh the noble of the court of King Shah Jahan to the land of Rajasthan. The experts of art captivated by the beauty of this art of work called the skilled craftsmen of Lahore to set up their workshop in Mewar, Rajasthan. Soon after that the Rajasthan become the trade centre of meenakari art in the whole of India.
Meenakari art is believed to be used originally in architecture, decorating the walls, pillars and roofs, but this art was started used in the designs of jewellery like Kundan meenakari bangles after the begum astonished by the beauty of this art.
Surpassing the Rajasthan
The art of meenakari started to spread in the different corners of the Mughal empire in India soon after dominating the whole of Rajasthan. In the cities like Lucknow, Punjab and Delhi this art started to become famous. In each region of India, this art starts getting its speciality with different techniques and styles.
The enamelling technique of meenakari is different in different cities. The artisans of Lucknow used green and blue enamelling, and the Banarasi meenakars used the dusky pink or rose gold shade of enamelling, along with a lotus motif. The Persian craftsman introduce this style particularly in the 17th century when they visit the court of Lucknow’s, Avadh. The glass painting style of meenakari is famous in the Pratapgarh of Rajasthan. The peppiest alluring style of meenakari can be seen in Jaipur. From traditional jewellery set to customized imitation jewellery you can find meenakari work everywhere.
Meenakari is although introduced by the Mughals and originally used to craft on 24karat gold, nowadays this style can also be seen in 925 Sterling silver and this style is widely loved by jewellery enthusiasts across India. This art is influenced by the different cultures and rulers around India and is now showcased in different products and different kinds of different jewellery.
FAQ's:
Q1. which city is famous for meenakari jewellery?
Ans. Jaipur is famous for meenakari jewellery. Raja Mansingh of jaipur bought meenakari art from lahore and established in jaipur.
Q2. what is Meenakari jewellery?
Ans. Meenakari jewellery is a type of ornament made from molding of gold, silver with gemstones. these pieces are painted with colors to show the royalty.