Kundan

Origins of Kundan jewelleries in India are dated back to at least 3rd century BCE. Kundan started off in Rajasthan Royal court and then flourished under royal patronage during the Mughal era. The method is believed to have originated in the royal courts of Rajasthan and Gujarat. It is one of the older forms of jewellery made and worn in India. It remains an integral part of the traditional bridal wedding trousseau. Traditional settings, including the thappa and ras rawa, are experiencing a revival. In the 2008 film, Jodhaa Akbar, the lead character portrayed by Aishwarya Rai Bachchan was extensively shown wearing Kundan jewellery, highlighting its influence among Rajasthani royalty. ==Process==

Kundan jewellery is created by setting carefully shaped, uncut diamonds and polished multicoloured gemstones into an exquisitely designed pure gold or faux metal base. The elaborate process begins with the skeletal framework called Ghaat. Thereafter, the Paadh procedure takes place, during which wax is poured onto the framework and moulded according to the design. Following this is the Khudai process, when the stones or uncut gems are fit into the framework. Meenakari then involves enameling to define the design details. Next, the Pakai process involves gold foils that hold the gems onto the framework; these are cold soldered using burnishing techniques. Finally, the gems are polished using the Chillai process. ==Gallery==

File:Hathphul (bracelet), India, Rajasthan, probably Jaipur, Mughal period, 18th century, gold, white sapphires, rubies, enamel - Royal Ontario Museum - DSC04563.JPG File:DeaMann Collections.jpg File:Arm ornament, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India, 19th century, gold and clear stones, Honolulu Academy of Arts.JPG File:India moghul, pendente d'oro diamanti e rubini a forma di uccello, xvii sec.JPG File:WLA haa Gold belt Tamil Oddiyanam 3.jpg ==References==