Discover the Soul of India Through Soumiez

by Soumiez | November 17, 2024

Explore modern jewellery from Delhi, oxidised jewellery from Jaipur, handcrafted chikankari kurtas from Lucknow and eco-friendly bamboo pieces from Agartala, and more.

India is a land of diversity, with every city telling its own unique story through art, culture, and craftsmanship. At Soumiez, we are dedicated to bringing you these stories through our iconic products. Each piece you purchase reflects the timeless beauty of Indian heritage, handcrafted with love and precision.

Currently, we’re focusing on jewellery and Chikankari kurtas, with treasures from some of India’s most renowned cities:

Modern Jewellery from Delhi

Delhi, the fashion hub of India, is a trendsetter in modern jewellery design. Known for its blend of innovation and sophistication, jewellery from Delhi is celebrated across the country for its contemporary appeal. From sleek geometric designs to minimalist statement pieces, this collection caters to those who embrace modern aesthetics without compromising on elegance.

Whether you’re heading to a corporate meeting or a casual outing, Delhi’s modern jewellery effortlessly elevates any look. Crafted with precision and high-quality materials, these pieces are perfect for women who prefer timeless simplicity with a chic edge.

Oxidised Jewellery from Jaipur

Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, is a treasure trove of exquisite craftsmanship, and oxidised jewellery holds a special place in its rich heritage. Known for its antique charm and intricate detailing, oxidised jewellery from Jaipur reflects the city’s historical significance and regal legacy. Centuries ago, Jaipur’s artisans mastered metalworking techniques to create jewellery for the royal families. Using silver and other base metals, they developed the process of oxidizing to give the pieces a tarnished yet sophisticated look, resembling ancient artifacts.

This style became synonymous with vintage aesthetics, symbolizing timeless elegance and traditional artistry. The designs often feature motifs inspired by Rajasthani culture, including floral patterns, peacocks, and temple-inspired carvings. These reflect the opulence of the Rajput era, where jewellery wasn’t just an accessory but a representation of status, spirituality, and artistry.

Natural Jewellery from Agartala

Natural jewellery from Agartala is handmade and stands out for its eco-friendly craftsmanship and cultural richness, primarily using bamboo and natural seeds like gulmohar, ritha, and sandalwood (chandan). Artisans meticulously handcraft these pieces, showcasing the region’s exceptional skills in bamboo and seed-based designs.

These products are lightweight, affordable, and fashionable, making them accessible and appealing to a global audience seeking sustainable alternatives. Their earthy charm and cultural significance make them ideal gifts and collectibles that promote ethical consumerism. These integrate the principles of minimal waste and eco-conscious living into their designs. By using locally sourced materials, the jewellery not only supports regional biodiversity but also provides livelihoods to many skilled craftsmen.

Bangles and Jewellery from Hyderabad

Hyderabad, often called the “City of Pearls,” has a rich and storied history when it comes to jewellery, particularly bangles and pearls. This city has been a hub for jewellery craftsmanship, blending heritage, tradition, and artistry into iconic creations.

Hyderabad’s Laad Bazaar, located near the historic Charminar, is synonymous with intricate bangle craftsmanship. The bazaar is famous for it’s bangles particularly its “lac bangles,” which are handmade and often adorned with mirrors, colored stones, and pearls. These bangles are not just accessories but a symbol of culture and celebration, especially during weddings and festivals like Diwali and Eid. The art of making lac bangles has been passed down through generations, making each piece a blend of tradition and timeless charm.

While traditional designs dominate, modern innovations have incorporated gemstones, diamonds, and contemporary aesthetics into Hyderabad’s jewellery. This blend appeals to a wide range of preferences, making it a favorite destination for both heritage lovers and modern trendsetters.

Chikankari Kurtas from Lucknow

Chikankari, a delicate hand-embroidery art, traces its origins to the Mughal era, flourishing under Empress Noor Jahan in the 16th century. Inspired by Persian techniques, it became a hallmark of elegance among Mughal royalty. The name “Chikankari” stems from the Urdu word “chikan,” meaning embroidery, and is known for intricate floral and geometric patterns created using white or off-white threads on fabrics like cotton and silk​.