Our collection proudly showcases a rare and exquisite pair of vintage Todo or Kalla anklets, originating from the culturally rich region of Gujarat, India. These anklets transcend mere adornments; they are a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of generations past. Handcrafted with meticulous precision using solid silver and employing remarkable repousse and chasing techniques, they exemplify the unparalleled skill of artisans who have honed their craft over centuries.
Traditionally worn by the resilient Maldhari women, these anklets are renowned for their unique features. Serving as status symbols, they are worn during important celebrations, weddings, and festive occasions. Originally, women would protect their skin from the weight of these imposing anklets by wrapping cloth rags around their feet.
This particular pair of Todo anklets weighs over 800 grams (400+ grams each) and features stunning stylized Makara head patterns. While wearing them as anklets today might pose a challenge due to their weight, these pieces also serve as exquisite decorative works of art and can be worn as striking hand kadas.
This piece is perfect for those who appreciate the legacy of Gujarat's craftsmanship and are prepared to embrace the grandeur of these remarkable heritage pieces.
Owning a pair of vintage Todo or Kalla anklets is akin to holding a piece of history in your hands. These anklets have borne witness to generations of traditions, celebrations, and the passage of time. As you adorn yourself with these anklets, you not only embrace their aesthetic beauty but also become a custodian of Gujarat's cultural legacy.
if you would like to purchase this or a similar piece, please get in touch with us at 8884445300 or email us at contact@ahamjewellery.com
]]>
Significance of Rakshabandhan:
Rakshabandhan holds deep-rooted cultural and emotional significance in India. It symbolizes the bond of love, protection, and loyalty between brothers and sisters. The word "Rakshabandhan" itself translates to "the bond of protection," emphasizing the vow of a brother to safeguard his sister's well-being. This festival also extends beyond biological siblings, as it is common for cousins, close friends, and even neighbours to participate in this celebration of love and unity.
Modern Traditions and Celebrations:
Over the years, the way Rakshabandhan is celebrated has evolved to reflect the changing dynamics of Indian society. Traditionally, sisters tie a sacred thread (rakhi) around their brothers' wrists, and in return, brothers offer gifts and make a lifelong promise to protect their sisters. However, today's celebrations have become more inclusive and creative. Many siblings personalize the occasion by selecting rakhis that resonate with their unique interests, such as silver rakhis adorned with intricate designs or symbols that hold personal significance. Moreover, in a beautiful display of love and sisterhood, it has also become common for sisters to tie rakhis to their sisters. This practice emphasizes the bond between siblings, regardless of gender, and fosters a sense of unity and support within the family.
The Beauty of Silver Rakhis:
A. Sustainable:
Nowadays there has been a growing consciousness about sustainability and the impact of consumer choices on the environment. Choosing a silver rakhi from Aham Jewellery allows individuals to celebrate Rakshabandhan while making an eco-friendly choice. Silver is a precious metal that can be recycled and repurposed, making it a sustainable option for those concerned about reducing waste.
B. Intrinsic Value and Appreciation:
Silver rakhis hold both sentimental and monetary value. Crafted from 92.5 sterling silver, these rakhis not only serve as a token of love but also possess inherent worth. Silver is a precious metal that tends to appreciate in value over time, making it a thoughtful and enduring gift. The silver rakhi becomes a treasured keepsake that can be cherished for years to come.
C. Versatility:
Unlike traditional rakhis, silver rakhis can be upcycled into a variety of jewelry pieces. Aham Jewellery offers the option to transform the rakhi into a pendant, brooch, earrings, or a bracelet charm, allowing the wearer to carry the memories and significance of Rakshabandhan throughout the year. This versatility adds a layer of uniqueness and practicality to the silver rakhi.
D. Auspicious:
Silver, as a metal, is believed to possess cooling properties when worn. This makes silver rakhis not only aesthetically pleasing but also provides a soothing effect to the wearer during the festive season. Additionally, silver holds symbolic value in Indian traditions and is associated with good luck, prosperity, and positive energy. Choosing a silver rakhi from Aham Jewellery reflects the desire to bless your sibling with these auspicious qualities, making it a thoughtful and meaningful choice.
Distance No Barrier: Worldwide Delivery
At Aham Jewellery, we understand that physical distance should never hinder the celebration of Rakshabandhan. That's why we offer seamless worldwide delivery, ensuring that your chosen rakhi reaches your sibling, no matter where they reside. Through the convenience of online shopping at www.ahamjewellery.com, you can explore a wide range of contemporary and modern designs that cater to diverse preferences. Each silver rakhi is meticulously crafted, striking a harmonious balance between simplicity and intricate detailing. Our collection guarantees that you will find the perfect rakhi that resonates with your sibling's style and preferences. With Aham Jewellery, distance becomes insignificant, and the joy of Rakshabandhan transcends geographical boundaries.
Authentic Blessings: Auspicious Accompaniments with Your Silver Rakhi from Aham Jewellery
When you place an order for a silver rakhi from Aham Jewellery within India, your package comes with the auspicious accompaniments of kumkum (vermilion), chawal (rice grains), and mishri (sugar crystals). These traditional elements hold immense significance in Indian culture, representing blessings, purity, and sweetness. Including these auspicious additions with the rakhi adds an authentic touch to the celebration, making it even more memorable.
Exquisite Designs all Hand Made, Affordable and a Diverse Range:
Aham Jewellery offers a wide range of silver rakhis to suit various preferences and budgets. Starting from Rs 651 onwards, you can explore an assortment of designs that cater to different tastes. From classic Ganesha silver rakhis to Om silver rakhis, trishul (trident), flower, heart, infinity symbols, rakhis with semi-precious stones, inlay work, and bead rakhis, and a few special designs for the little ones like the dino and hath rakhi, the collection ensures there is something for everyone. Additionally, Aham Jewellery also offers rakhi lumba sets, which include a rakhi for your brother and a matching lumba for your sister-in-law (bhabhi), adding an extra touch of love and inclusiveness to the festival.
Rakshabandhan, a celebration of love and protection, holds immense significance in Indian culture. Choosing a silver rakhi from Aham Jewellery not only allows you to honour this beautiful tradition but also makes a sustainable choice that holds intrinsic value. With worldwide delivery, exquisite designs, auspicious accompaniments, and affordable prices, Aham Jewellery ensures a memorable and meaningful Rakshabandhan experience. Embrace the elegance and symbolism of silver rakhis and strengthen the bond with your sibling, no matter the distance.
At Aham Jewellery, Every year we make over 50 different designs and combinations of silver rakhis and lumbas, each handmade to perfection. As we witness the joy on the faces of our customers when they find the perfect Rakhi or Lumba for their loved ones, we are reminded of the significance this festival holds in our hearts.
]]>
Jhumka, the traditional Indian earring, has long captured the hearts of women with its intricate design, beautiful craftsmanship, and undeniable charm. This exquisite piece of jewelry has a rich history and has stood the test of time, remaining one of the most popular earring designs in India. The jhumka has a distinctive bell-shaped design that creates movement and fluidity along with delicate jingling sound with every turn of the head. This blog delves deeper into the enchanting world of jhumka earrings, exploring their origin, evolution, regional variations, cultural significance, and enduring popularity.
The word "jhumka" is an onomatopoeic term that describes the jingling sound produced by the suspended beads and adornments of the earring. The design of jhumkas are believed to be traced back to temple statues from the Chola dynasty, dating as far back as the 3rd century BCE . Though i did try to look up on sculptures from that area to find a visual reference, i was unsuccessful.
The jhumka has been crafted using various metals, including gold, silver, and bronze, and are adorned with intricate patterns and gemstones. Over time, jhumka earrings have evolved in design, incorporating influences from various regions and historical periods. The true test of a design’s longevity is the ease with which it can lend itself to the current sensibility. An account the jhumka clearly doesn’t fall short on. No woman’s jewelry box is ever complete without a pair of jhumka earrings.
Today, jhumka earrings are likely to be a staple of one's festive and wedding season wardrobe. Their timelessness adds a traditional update to any given look, while their versatility allows for pairing with contemporary occasion wear too. The best of both worlds.
Jhumkas hold spiritual and symbolic significance in Indian culture. The Jhumki signifies the auspicious silence of spirituality. The jingling sound produced by the earrings is believed to bring positive energy and ward off evil spirits. Jhumkas also symbolize eternal life and spiritual awareness. The bell-shaped silhouette is also believed to symbolize fertility and abundance.
While the jhumka is a common thread running through the jewelry repertoire of India, different regions of India have their own unique design variations of jhumkas. The tribal jhumkis of Rajasthan are characterized by vibrant colors and the use of beads and mirrors. The tribal communities of Orissa are known for their exquisite filigree work on jhumkas, while the tribal jewelry of Gujarat features intricate silver work and the use of semi-precious stones. Himachal is known for its beautiful enamel work silver - the Meena Karnful Jhumkies. In Kerela the gold Jhumkis are popular, and In Tamil Nadu, the Kemp studded Jhumkies that Bharatnatyam dancers wore gained popularity. In Hyderabad, with the Moghul influence we see the use of pearls in Jhumkies.
Different Names Across States:
The Jhumka, is so unique to and popular across the Indian subcontinent
Though jhumka is a widely recognized term for this earring, it is referred to by various names in different Indian states.
In West Bengal, it is known as "Jhumko"
In Andhra Pradesh, they are called "Buttalu,"
in Maharashtra the Banjaras call it “Zumka”
while in Haryana, they are referred to as "Magar" or "Kundal."
In Tamil Nadu and Kerala, they are known as "Jhimki,"
and in Karnataka, they are called "Muthina Vale Jhimki."
In Manipur a multi layered Jhimki is called "Khokor"
Rajasthan has its own distinctive style known as "Karanphool Jhumka" featuring a disc-shaped element (Karanphool) and a bell-shaped cup (Jhumki) that can be worn together or separately.
Jhumkas in Indian Royalty and Raja Ravi Verma Paintings:
The jhumka is a beautiful ear ornament with an exclusive Indian influence. It can be exceedingly elaborate or simple and dainty. The size of the jhumka varies from the obviously large to the modestly small.
Meenakari Jhumkas: Adorned with intricate designs and vibrant colors, the meenakari jhumkas are a testament to the impeccable craftsmanship of Bikaner. |
Temple work Jhumkas: Inspired by the majestic temples of India, these jhumkas feature ornate motifs and exquisite detailing that reflect the rich cultural heritage. |
Layered/Chandelier Jhumkas: With cascading layers and a mesmerizing design, the layered or chandelier jhumkas exude elegance and glamour, perfect for special occasions. |
Vintage Tribal Jhumkas: Reminiscent of ancient tribal traditions, these jhumkas showcase a rustic charm and unique craftsmanship that tells a story of bygone eras. |
Eclectic Dual Tone Jhumkas: Combining contrasting metals and finishes, the eclectic dual-tone jhumkas create a striking visual appeal, representing a harmonious fusion of styles |
Kundan Silver Jhumkas: Adorned with exquisite Kundan gemstones, these jhumkas exude opulence and grandeur, showcasing the intricate beauty of Kundan craftsmanship. |
Hoop Jhumkas: Blending the elegance of hoops with the traditional charm of jhumkas, the hoop jhumkas offer a modern twist to a classic design. |
Earcuff Jhumkas: Combining the trendy earcuff style with the traditional charm of jhumkas, these earrings redefine elegance and make a bold fashion statement. With their unique design that wraps around the earlobe, earcuff jhumkas add a touch of edginess and sophistication to any ensemble. |
Gold Dipped Silver Jhumkas: Luxurious and opulent, these silver jhumkas are dipped in gold, exuding a regal aura and making a timeless fashion statement. |
During my research, I came across some fascinating uses of the jhumki beyond its traditional earring form. Here are a few noteworthy examples:
Hair Ornaments:
The Lambani tribe of Karnataka, known for their vibrant and colorful attire, incorporates the jhumki design into their hair ornaments. They wear a unique style of jhumki that hangs on either side of the face, adding a distinctive touch to their overall look. This creative adaptation showcases the versatility and adaptability of the jhumki design.
Jhumki Nosepin:
Image Courtesy: Archive of V&A Museum, Pieces given by Dr W Ganguly
In Maharashtra, the jhumki design finds a different manifestation as a nosepin. This traditional nosepin features a small jhumki suspended at the end, creating an elegant and intricate adornment for the nose. It is a beautiful example of how the jhumki design has been adapted and incorporated into different forms of jewelry across regions.
Gajra Kada with Hanging Jhumki:
Fun Trivia: Bareilly ka Jhumka
Every Indian would have probably heard the song "Jhumka gira re, Bareilly ki bazaar mein jhumka gira re."
The song is from the 1966 film "Mera Sayaa" but continues to be remembered even after 50+ years. Although there is no connection between the city and the piece of jewelry, the jhumka connection not only made Bareilly popular but even today tourists going there look for the jhumka. Recently, in 2020, the town finally had a jhumka installed in the city center to celebrate the song and the popularity of the jhumka.
With each delicate movement, the jhumka creates a musical symphony, captivating both the wearer and those around her. Its allure has inspired poets to write verses and musicians to compose melodies, weaving tales of love and enchantment around the jhumka and the women who wear it. Truly, the jhumka has become an iconic emblem, embodying the timeless charm and cultural richness of India.
]]>Navaratna is a Sanskrit compound word, which means, Nine (Nava) Gems (Ratnas).
The Navartana basically indicates the nine planets of our solar system that governs each of the gems.
Navratana Jewellery
The jewellery created using the nine gemstones are known as Navaratna Jewellery. This can be typically in the form of rings, necklaces, pendants, earrings, prayer beads, armbands, bracelets, chokers.
Even though the origins of this precious combination of nine gems is unknown, its popularity and beauty go beyond the borders of India, covering almost all Asian countries like Singapore, Myanmar, Cambodia, Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia, irrespective of their culture or religion. However, it is undoubtedly the most popular in India.
Historical Significance of Navaratna Jewelry
During the ancient time, Navaratna Jewelry was predominantly worn by the kings and the emperors (Maharaja) in the form of an amulet. Since each of these gemstones is associated with a celestial deity, the combination of these nine gems is believed to invoke the cosmic powers of heavenly bodies in totality.
Setting arrangement
In order to harness the full spiritual potential of these gems, they are traditionally set in a specific arrangement.
It is considered inauspicious to place any gem other than a ruby or a red spinel in the center of the nine gems arrangement.
Since the Sun is the center of the solar system, its representative gem ruby is positioned in the heart of a Navaratna Talisman.
Traditionally each stone in the ornament should be of the same size so that all the planets were represented equally, though sometimes the centre stone representing the sun is slightly bigger than the rest.
The most common arrangements are a square with three stones on each side and one in the centre forming a square or a circle.
In addition the stones can be arranged as two overlapping squares or a long rectangle. In prayer beads nine gemstone beads are repeated in twelve units making a total of 108 beads (the twelve repeats are an allusion of the twelve months of the year).
Navaratna in other languages
In Thailand, the Navaratna is officially recognised as a national and royal symbol of the king. A high award given by the king is called "Noppharat Ratchawaraphon" (the Ancient Auspicious Order of the Nine Gems)
The Order is conferred upon Buddhist members of the Royal Family, as well as high ranking dignitaries, who have served the Kingdom and are affiliated with Buddhism. Awarded to both men (Knight) and women (Dame), the Dame awards are distinguished by the use of a bow ribbon. The Order is limited to 27 members. Original institution date unknown, believed to be during the 12th century.
Referencing of Navratna in other fields
The concept of nine royal gems also had an interesting manifestation in the form of nine important courtiers, who excelled in diverse fields like medicine, arts, literature etc.
The concept of Navratnas was also adopted by Emperor Akbar. His nine gems were: Raja Birbal (‘Vidushak’ or scholarly entertainer), Miyaan Tansen (Musician), Abul Fazal (Translator and Biographer), Faizi (Poet laureate), Raja Man Singh (Military Commander), Raja Todar Mal (Finance Minister), Mullah Do Piaza (Advisor), Faqir Aziao-Din (Sufi Mystic) and Abdul Rahim Khan-e-Khana (Mystic, poet, Translator and Scholar).
The Indian Government has also adapted the concept of Navratna for its large Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs). The Government of India initially awarded the Navratna status to nine public sector undertakings (PSUs) in 1997. Over the years, the list of Navratna Companies has expanded to 14,
Aham Jewellery
We have had a few interesting pieces Navratna pieces in our collection over the years.
While historically Navratna Jewellery has been worn for this healing powers, more recently it is gaining popularity for its visual appeal & aesthetics and its ability to blend seamlessly with most Indian outfits. But regardless of one's reason to adorn the beautiful Navratna, it is bound to make a statement and will be a piece that is cherished and passed on for generations to come.
]]>
If you have weddings to attend, we recommend a few MUST-HAVE pieces that will instantly elevate your look this festive season.
]]>
Some Pandadi Earrings from our collection at Aham Jewellery.
One of purpose Ornaments also serve is to remove any anonymity, proclaim caste, religion and ethnic identity, and even distinctly communicate an individual’s persons region of origin. This is particularly the case among tribal and pastoral communities.
The Jats of Kutch are a cattle breeding nomadic Muslim community, found in the Kutch region of Gujarat in India. They are one of a number of communities of Maldhari pastoral nomads found in the Banni region of Kutch.[1]
The Jat, or Jath claim descent from ancient pastoral tribes of the Indus delta (Indus River Delta) region of Sindh, where some members of the tribe still reside. Jath of Kutch and Sindh are different from Jats of north India.
The Kutchi Jat women of all ages wear a distinct silver torque/ Hasli / Hansuli.
image source: Kimberly Coole
image source: Leonid Plotkin
Today a handful of skill artisans make this style of Hasli.
At Aham Jewellery, we work closely we a small family of artisans from Anjar, who have specialised in making this Hasli and have learnt the art from their fore fathers.
]]>
Look at the grandeur of this neckpiece!!
At Aham, one of our favourite forms of neckpiece is the Hasli. Also called Hansuli. Our search for vintage museum Hasli pieces lead us to this grand neckpiece from Nepal. And we had to share it with our readers.
The sheer size, the work detailing, the craftsmanship is breathtaking. The piece is crafted in gilded copper with semi precious stone settings.
This is the neckpiece of King Pratapamalla (r. 1641–74), ruler of the Malla dynasty of Nepal, It is believed that this ornament may have been given by King Pratapamalla to Taleju Bhavani, the revered patron goddess of the old palace in Kathmandu and the chief protective deity of Nepal and its royal family.
King Pratapamalla may also have worn this collar when he participated in rituals.
The neckpiece bears the inscription:
“Victory to the Mother-Goddess [Bhagavati devi Janani]. Hail! [This] is the necklace of the king of kings, lord of kings, lord of the poets, the victorious Pratapamalladeva (may it be) auspicious!”
This complex piece is composed of five principal strands
The two innermost strands resemble rudraksha beads, made from the seeds of a large evergreen tree whose berries are commonly made into prayer mala of 108 beads. Such prayer beads are most often worn by Shaivite ascetics, either around the neck or woven into their topknots.
The third and fourth strands consist of tubular forms in a crescent shape known as hansuli. Each terminates in elaborate clasps, with the inner strand attached to a central amulet case.
The outermost ring contains thirteen images of deities, including roundels of the eight mothers (Ashtamatrikas), each depicted as the goddess Durga slaying the buffalo demon (Mahishasura).
As this necklace was a royal commission, the finest Newari artists would have handcrafted it.
Details
Reference:
1. https://globalnepalimuseum.com/objects/necklace-inscribed-with-the-name-of-king-pratapamalladeva/
2. https://www.artic.edu/artworks/130700/necklace-inscribed-with-the-name-of-king-pratapamalladeva
"Bugadis have been a popular ear ornament worn in many communities. Specifically worn in the Helix. The basic pattern is a thin, long, hollow plug with screw which is secured by little balls at both ends. Typically has silver granules with pearls, or beads hanging. Primarily seen worn by traditional Hindu communities of Maharashtra, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu"
At Aham, we have adapted the traditional Bugadi to suit and work in todays context. Designed in silver, the Bugadis are wearable art pieces that you would enjoy wearing. We have one of the largest collection of Handcrafted Silver Bugadis that one would find online. Follow this link to see our Bugadi collection: Aham Silver Bugadis
AhamFinds:
The Peacock has been a prominent symbol that appears in several form of art, architecture, textiles and jewellery.
It has been a symbol of opulence, beauty, pride and royalty.
Apart from being the National Bird of India, In Indian Mythology it has been associated with,
Rain and Indra, the god of thunder. A symbol quite often used to announce the onset of rains.
The vahana of Murugan/Kartikeya, the God of war, victory, love and wisdom.
Krishna adorns a peacock leaf in his crown, symbolising divine wisdom, his third eye.
The Peacock has been a prominent and popular symbol in Indian Silver Jewellery and we see its various representations across different accessories
Do check our Dance of the Peacock Collection that celebrates the magnificent peacock and its many forms.
]]>Hasli/ Hansuli
A rigid Silver torque. Derives its name from the collar bone where it rests.
This basic torque form, preferably of one solid piece of metal, is worn throughout the Gangetic plain area.
Every region has a different name for the Hasli.
Serin in Jammu/Kashmir
Sutya in West Bengal and Bihar
Kanti in Andhra Pradesh
Content Source: Traditional Jewelry of India By Oppi Untracht
Click here to see the Hasli's we have in stock
]]>
Two part bracelet with projected simulated gajre balls made from stamped silver sheet.
Region: Rajasthan
Image source: Traditional Jewellery of India by Oppi Untracht
]]>We drew inspiration from the form of this neckpiece, and created a series of earrings. We created 5 single pairs as part of this series and each one of them is unique.
***Image and Information credits***
Traditional Jewellery of India by Oppi Untracht
Dance of the Peacock by Usha R Bala Krishnan and Meera Sushil Kumar.