Indian necklaces are known for their intricate designs, colorful gemstones, and statement-making flair. But which is the most popular metal among Indians to make necklaces?

As you may already know, gold is one of the most precious metals in the world, and it has been the preferred choice for centuries when it comes to Indian jewelry making. Gold necklaces are often chosen for special occasions like weddings and religious ceremonies, as well as being used for earrings, bracelets, rings and other decorative jewelry.

So why is gold so frequently used in Indian jewelry making? In this blog, we’re going to take a look at some of the reasons why gold is so popular across Southeast Asia and India, from its historic roots to modern symbolism. Let’s dive in!

WHY IS GOLD SIGNIFICANT IN INDIA?

Before we begin, it’s essential to understand the cultural significance of gold: not only is it an important part of Indian culture, but it connotes wealth, abundance, and prosperity. For this reason, gold jewelry is most typically featured in traditional Indian ceremonies – such as being used to decorate brides during marriage ceremonies – as well as for religious celebrations like Diwali and Durga Puja.

Gold is also considered a purifying metal in Hinduism, with the possibility to purify all that it touches. This again contributes to its heavy use in ceremonies such as marriage; by adorning the bride and groom in gold jewelry, they are brought luck, prosperity, and riches in their marriage.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF WEARING GOLD NECKLACES?

Aside from its long-established cultural and religious significance, Indian jewelry makers also opt for gold due to its durability, pliability, as well as its role as a financial resource for couples:

DURABILITY

Gold is known to be resistant to corrosion and rust, so it can last for decades when taken care of properly – making it a great option for long-term investments. As many Indian jewelry pieces are designed for long-term wear (such as the Mangalsutra).

HEALTH BENEFITS

Gold is believed to have many therapeutic benefits, from increasing blood circulation and speeding up healing to reducing inflammation. Some jewelry makers also believe that wearing gold improves energy and concentration, while others believe it can help balance emotions and reduce stress. This is due to the friction of the soft metal against the skin, which is said to regulate body temperature and aid circulation.

GOLD AS A FINANCIAL RESOURCE

Finally, in India, gold is often seen as a financial resource; many families pass down their gold jewelry between generations, with the value of the pieces increasing over time. This makes it an ideal investment opportunity, not just a beautiful adornment. In fact, before Indian women had property rights, gold jewelry that was accumulated over their lifetime was the only tangible asset for widows.

PLIABILITY

Gold is a malleable metal, meaning it can be shaped into intricate designs without running the risk of breakage or cracking – which makes it perfect for creating intricate and detailed necklaces like kundan jewelry. However, don’t forget that you’ll need a high karat gold to be able to achieve this; 22k gold necklaces are the best option rather than opting for pure gold, as they’re more durable and less likely to bend easily.

AESTHETICS

Finally, gold’s beautiful luster makes it a popular choice for all types of Indian jewelry, so it’s no wonder that its gleaming yellow hue has been coveted by cultures for thousands of years. One only has to look at images of Indian brides to see how stunning this metal can look when blended with diamonds and gemstones in traditional pieces, and how silver or copper simply can’t render the same results.

In conclusion, it’s clear that gold is a popular and highly-coveted metal for Indian jewelry makers. From its spiritual symbolism to its physical benefits, it’s no wonder why so many people opt for this luxurious metal when making necklaces and other pieces of jewelry. With its beautiful aesthetics, durability and malleability, gold has been a staple in Indian jewelry for centuries.