 Jewels
are the new playmates for the avant-garde style divas. Jewellery has
become the most important fashion accessory with the ability to make
or break an outfit. The norms for buying a fabulous piece have altered
too. What counts is the long lasting ability of a fancy trinket on
the trend stakes. A little bit of everything goes a long way in building
up that treasure chest with multi-purpose bits and baubles to dress
up every occasion.
 DIAMONDS
They have remained every ‘girl’s best friend’, despite stiff
competition from precious stones and jewellery. A Victorian choker
or pendant is a must-have as it lifts any ensemble to a princess-like
aura. Solitaire studs for the ears are the other ‘can’t do without’
item. They can pump up a basic denim and tee combo or tone down
a bright sequinned chiffon sari. In general, diamonds work best
with simpler ensembles, which better brings out their classic beauty.
Tip: Break down heavy, cumbersome pieces (like a traditional necklace
that probably doesn’t complement any of your Indian outfits) and
use the loose stones to design contemporary, formal separates (hoop
earrings or a bunch of studded bracelets) that can work both for
the day and night.
KUNDAN
The age-old appeal of jadau and kundan will never fade, although
a few twists are necessary to help this mélange of uncut
stones, usually set with rubies and emeralds. Wearing kundan with
western wear will create an inspiring contrast story, which will
only help highlight the stunning persona of the jewel. Try a pair
of Rajasthani jhumkas with a layered gypsy skirt and lace camisole,
or string together any old, broken pieces onto a chain belt to wear
with your Chanel tweed skirt. Kundan also works well with Lucknowi
chikan embroidery; the soft elegance of the latter greatly enhances
the bold craftsmanship of the former. Tip: Hang on to unusual items
like jhumars or maang tikkas, as they are difficult to find in markets
today. Sometimes you need kundan with those zardozi lehengas too.
PRECIOUS STONES:
Coral, turquoise, amber, topaz, amethyst, aquamarine-every
jeweller worth his or her Bvlgari catalogue will offer you options
where these gems take on the focus of the ornament. Funky, colourful
and easy to match with a variety of clothes, precious stones are
also more practical to stock up as they fit under more affordable
price brackets. Stylised chandelier earrings set with a multitude
of hued gems like rose quartz, pink tourmaline and rubies would
be a good buy and they will compliment a traditional south silk
beautifully. Alternatively, choose to wear them with very feminine
outfits like printed georgette dresses or style skirts from the
50s.
Tip: Have detachable stone drops made in your favourite shades
to clip on to your precious diamond earrings. This will help change
the look of one specific piece and make it look more versatile.
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