When it comes to Indian jewelry, pristine gold necklaces are heavily featured in everyday attire, in addition to being used to mark traditional Indian ceremonies, such as weddings. Like any necklace design, the chain itself makes up a significant and central aspect of the piece, and Indian necklace chains come in a variety of styles, ranging from the traditional to the contemporary.

But how many types of chain designs exist in Indian jewelry? In this blog, we’re going to take a look at the most popular chain designs across Southeast Asia and India, and go over both their historical symbolism as well as their unique design markings. Let’s get started!

JHUMKA CHAIN NECKLACE

The jhumka necklace is a traditional Indian style that consists of a thick chain -usually in gold – adorned with large pendants or jhumka charms. These charms are usually round, and sometimes feature intricate filigree work along the edges. Jhumka necklaces were typically worn to signal marital status in ancient India, but today they are popular simply for their ornate look and feel.

BEADED CHAIN NECKLACE

The beaded chain necklace is a modern twist on traditional Indian jewelry. These necklaces feature gold chains with small beads spaced throughout the length, providing an eye-catching contrast between the solid gold links and the light beadwork. Beaded chains are perfect for anyone looking for a unique twist on classic jewelry pieces.

MANGALSUTRA CHAIN NECKLACE

The chain used for a Mangalsutra is perhaps the most unique Indian necklace of all; consisting of two chains of black beads divided by a pendant, as well as small gold chains hanging down from the sides, the Mangalsutra represents the new bond between husband and wife. The mangalsutra is also believed to bring good luck and prosperity to married couples, and symbolizes eternal love and devotion; its name comes from the Sanskrit word “mangala,” which translates to “auspicious.”

RANI HAAR NECKLACE

The Rani Haar necklace chain is typically recognised via its inverted V-shaped base, which is often topped with a crescent moon and studded with diamonds. This traditional necklace is meant to bring confidence and good luck to the wearer; its name comes from the Sanskrit words “rani,” which means “queen” and “haar,” meaning “necklace.” But you don’t have to be royal to wear one!

KUNDAN NECKLACE

The word “Kundan” means “pure gold”, and Kundan jewelry is perhaps one of the most common across India. The traditional kind necklace is made with gold sheets and shaped into intricate patterns, adorned with semi-precious stones and intricate filigree. Kundan necklaces are often heavy pieces – sometimes even weighing up to a kilogram – but look stunning when paired with traditional Indian attire.

When it comes to picking perfect Kundan jewelry, don’t forget that gold quality is one of the most important factors; while Kundan does translate to “pure gold”, you don’t have to settle for pure gold when choosing a chain; 22 karat gold chains offer both a luxe feel and look, while also being more durable and tarnish-resistant than pure gold.

CHOKERS

In India, the choker isn’t simply a circular band as it is in the West; Indian chokers embrace elaborate designs and sometimes feature large pendants made of gold or precious stones. Indian chokers are typically fashioned out of either long chains or a single loop, making them the perfect accessory for both casual and formal attire.

LAYERED NECKLACES

The layered necklace is a popular trend in Indian jewelry today; instead of wearing one long chain, layered necklaces feature multiple shorter chains of varying lengths and diameters. This style can be combined with other traditional designs such as the jhumka or bead chain to create unique and eye-catching pieces.

The range of chain designs available in Indian jewelry is vast and unique; from thick beaded strands to traditional mangalsutras, each one carries its own symbolism and history. For authentic, Indian-inspired gold chains and necklaces, take a look at our collection over on our home page.