Jewelry has always been an essential part of Indian culture, and it holds a special place in our hearts. India is a land of diverse cultures, and each culture has its unique style of jewelry. Kundan and Polki jewellery are two such styles of Indian jewelry that are widely popular.
While both Kundan and Polki jewelry are made with uncut diamonds, they differ in their crafting techniques and styles. In this article, we will explore the difference between Kundan and Polki jewelry. Please also know about Traditional Indian Jewellery which gives you more stylish look.
What is Kundan Jewelry?
Kundan jewelry is a traditional form of Indian Jewellery that originated in the royal courts of Rajasthan and Gujarat. It is made by setting uncut diamonds or precious stones in a gold foil, which is then molded and shaped into intricate designs.
Kundan jewelry is known for its elaborate designs, intricate workmanship, and vibrant colors. It is usually set in 24-carat gold, which is considered the purest form of gold. Kundan jewelry is often embellished with precious and semi-precious stones like emeralds, rubies, and sapphires.
The stones are placed on a lac core and then mounted on the gold foil. Kundan jewellery is famous for its unique and intricate setting style, which is known as the ‘Kundan Setting.’
What is Polki Jewelry?
Polki jewelry is another traditional form of Indian jewelry that is made with uncut diamonds. Unlike Kundan jewelry, Polki jewelry is made by leaving the diamonds in their natural state, without any processing or cutting.
The diamonds are placed in a gold frame, which is then molded and shaped into a design. Polki jewelry is known for its raw, uncut, and rustic appearance. It is usually set in 22-carat gold, which is slightly less pure than Kundan jewelry. Polki jewellery is often embellished with precious and semi-precious stones like emeralds, rubies, and sapphires.
Difference Between Kundan and Polki Jewellery
| Feature | Kundan Jewelry | Polki Jewelry |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Kundan is a traditional form of Indian gemstone jewelry, where gemstones are set in a gold foil between the stones and the mount. | Polki is a style of jewelry that uses unfinished natural diamonds, often set in gold, and is characterized by its uncut, raw appearance. |
| Base Material | The base of Kundan jewelry is typically made of gold. | Polki jewelry also has a gold base. |
| Stones Used | Kundan jewelry uses a combination of gemstones, including glass, to create a vibrant and colorful look. | Polki jewelry uses unfinished diamonds, sometimes combined with other gemstones. |
| Material Used | Kundan jewellery uses highly refined gold, often 24-carat, and is typically set with glass or gemstones. | Polki jewellery is made using uncut diamonds, also known as Polki diamonds, which are natural diamonds with no or minimal polishing. |
| Setting Technique | Kundan stones are set using a technique called “Kundan setting,” where the stones are set in a gold foil that is molded around the stones. | Polki diamonds are often set using prongs or in a way that exposes more of the diamond’s surface. |
| Cost | Kundan jewellery is generally less expensive than Polki. | Polki jewellery is usually more expensive due to the use of uncut diamonds, which are inherently more valuable. |
| Appearance | Kundan jewelry tends to have a more polished and refined look with a focus on intricate designs and vibrant colors. | Polki jewelry has a more rustic and natural appearance due to the use of uncut diamonds. |
| Occasions | Kundan jewelry is often worn on special occasions, weddings, and festivals. | Polki jewelry is also popular for weddings and special events, especially for a more vintage or traditional look. |
| Durability | Kundan jewelry may be more delicate due to the setting technique, and care should be taken to avoid damage to the foil. | Polki jewelry can be relatively sturdy, but care should still be taken to protect the diamonds and the setting. |
| Popularity | Popular in North India and associated with traditional bridal wear. | Popular across India and has gained popularity internationally for its timeless elegance. |
The main difference between Kundan and Polki jewelry lies in the way they are crafted and the appearance of the uncut diamonds. Kundan jewellery is made by setting uncut diamonds in a gold foil, which is then molded and shaped into intricate designs.
Polki jewelry, on the other hand, is made by leaving the uncut diamonds in their natural state, without any processing or cutting. This gives Polki jewellery a raw and rustic appearance, while Kundan jewelry has a more refined and polished look.
The purity of gold used in Kundan and Polki jewelry also differs. Kundan jewelry is usually set in 24-carat gold, which is considered the purest form of gold. Polki jewellery, on the other hand, is set in 22-carat gold, which is slightly less pure than Kundan jewelry. This makes Kundan jewellery more expensive than Polki jewelry.
Another difference between Kundan and Polki jewelry lies in the setting style. Kundan jewelry is known for its unique and intricate setting style, which is known as the ‘Kundan Setting.’ The stones are placed on a lac core and then mounted on the gold foil, creating a raised effect.
Polki jewelry, on the other hand, is set in a way that the diamonds are held in place by the gold frame. This gives Polki jewellery a more natural and organic look.
Kundan jewelry is often embellished with precious and semi-precious stones like emeralds, rubies, and sapphires. These stones are set in the gold foil along with the uncut diamonds.
Polki jewelry is also often embellished with precious and semi-precious stones, but they are usually set around the uncut diamonds in a way that highlights their natural beauty.
Also know: Which Gold is Best for Jewellery?
In conclusion, Kundan and Polki jewelry are two traditional forms of Indian jewellery that are popular for their unique crafting techniques and styles. Both Kundan and Polki jewelry have their unique charm and are highly sought after by jewelry enthusiasts all over the world.
