Jadau Earrings - History, Styles, Making Process of Intricate Indian Jewelry

Introduction to Jadau Earrings

Jadau earrings are a type of traditional Indian jewelry made by setting uncut precious and semi-precious gemstones into gold or silver. 'Jadau' refers to the art of encrusting gems onto gold or silver in intricate patterns using fine gold or silver wire. This intricate style of gemstone setting gives jadau jewelry a luxurious and regal look.

History and Origins of Jadau Jewelry

The art of jadau is believed to have originated in the Mughal era in India. Skilled artisans developed techniques to securely set uncut stones in beautiful floral and geometric motifs using fine sheets and wires of gold and silver. Over time, the jadau craft has continued to evolve with each region in India developing its unique style.

Some of the most popular varieties of jadau jewelry today include:

• Kundan jadau from Rajasthan featuring elaborate gemstone setting with pure gold foil underneath
• Meenakari jadau from Varanasi with vibrant enameling over carved gold surfaces
• Pachchikam jadau from Gujarat with black lacquerwork on gold

Popular Styles of Jadau Earrings

Jadau earrings come in a wide range of designs from delicate studs to heavy bridal jewelry. Some popular jadau earring styles include:

• Jhumkas - bell or dome-shaped dangling earrings with gemstones
• Chandbalis - crescent shaped earrings encrusted in jadau
• Naths - large circular earrings with pearls and precious stones
• Stud earrings - knob style earrings with jadau setting

Making Process of Jadau Earrings

Creating a jadau earring is an intricate process that involves setting each gemstone individually in shaped wires and sheets of gold or silver:

1. The gold/silver base is crafted according to the earring design
2. Grooves are carved out to fit each cabochon gemstone
3. Gold or silver foil is pressed under the stone to enhance lustre
4. Fine wires secure the gems onto the base
5. Finishing is done with engraving, polishing and ornamental work

It can take skilled artisans days or even weeks to handcraft a complete jadau earring.

Gemstones Used in Jadau Jewelry

A wide variety of precious and semi-precious untreated gemstones are used in jadau jewelry. Some popular options include:

• Diamonds
• Emeralds
• Rubies
• Sapphires
• Pearls
• Coral
• Lapis lazuli
• Onyx
• Topaz
• Garnet

The vibrant colors and natural flaws of these gemstones shine through beautifully in jadau jewelry designs.

Jadau Earrings for Bridal Wear

Opulent jadau jewelry is hugely popular as Indian bridal jewelry. Bridal jadau earrings come in statement making designs like:

• Chandbalis - ornate crescent earrings extending to the shoulders
• Aarsi balis - circular earrings with large dangling pendants
• Jhumars - heaviest earrings covering ear lobes with jewels

They make for stunning bridal earrings for occasions like engagement, mehendi and weddings.

Latest Jadau Earring Designs

Contemporary jadau earrings fuse traditional setting techniques with modern styles. Some latest jadau earring trends include:

• Minimalist single stone studs in rose gold and silver
• Delicate floral motif earrings for everyday wear
• Geometric jadau earrings with polki and colored stones
• Mismatched jhumkas with pearls and kundan

Modern designs allow younger generations to embrace jadau earrings as a stylish jewelry option.

Caring for your Jadau Earrings

Here are some tips to clean and maintain your precious jadau earrings:

• Store in a jewelry box separately to avoid scratches
• Clean with a soft toothbrush; avoid chemical cleaners
• Use polishing cloths to revive shine
• Get check-ups done annually to re-wire loose gems

Taking good care of your jadau earrings will ensure they remain timeless heirlooms to pass on.

Where to Buy Jadau Earrings

You can find the latest jadau earring designs at:

• Online jewelry stores
• Jewelry chains
• Local jewelry markets in India
• Bridal jewelry stores and studios
• Boutiques retailing traditional jewelry

High-end jadau earrings made with quality gemstones and artisanship can be expensive. However, more affordable machine-made and gold plated jadau earrings are also widely available.

FAQs

What is jadau jewelry?

Jadau jewelry refers to gemstone encrusted gold or silver jewelry where the stones are set in intricate wire patterns. It involves securing each gemstone individually with fine sheets and wires of gold or silver.

How long does it take to make jadau earrings?

It can take between a few days to several weeks for skilled artisans to handcraft a complete pair of jadau earrings. The time varies based on the complexity of the design. Simple stud designs may take less time compared to elaborate bridal chandbalis.

How to differentiate real vs fake jadau?

Real jadau uses real gold/silver wires to securely set untreated gemstones in intricate patterns. Fakes may have cheap metal plating that fades quickly instead of real gold. The setting quality of fakes is also poor and stones fall out easily.

How can I make my jadau earrings last longer?

Store jadau earrings in a separate box to prevent scratches. Clean regularly with a soft toothbrush and mild soap-water solution. Do not use any chemical cleaners. Get your jadau earrings serviced annually to check for loose wires and reset any loose stones.

What's a good place to buy bridal jadau earrings?

Reputable jewelry stores and high-end bridal jewellers are the best places for buying precious bridal jadau earrings. They offer quality craftsmanship and you can verify authenticity of gold/gemstones used before purchasing.