Enhance Magazine Spreads

ENHANCE

THE STORIES OF

JEWELSPast and Present

+5 BEST JEWELLERY PRESERVING IDEAS

THE WEDDING TROUSSEAU STATEMENT JEWELLERY: WEARING IT RIGHT

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Vol. 1| June| 2015

EXCLUSIVE: AMIRA KHAN

ONE-STOP GUIDE TO ALL YOUR BIJOUTERIE NEEDS

Everything that glitters

Isabella Rosellini, Italian actress, model, author, director and philanthropist famously said: “The reason of my life is not to be the most beautiful woman in the world.”

At first I found this quote quite narcissistic of the accomplished Rosellini – to me it implied that she already assumed she was. It was only as I grew up that I understood. Rosellini did not say it for herself – she said it for the millions of people who followed her every move, who reduced all of her talent, ability and intellect to the beauty of her face.

Enhance is for women who refuse to let themselves be defined by things they have no control over. It is for the woman in control; the indomitable woman.

This month’s feature centers around the incredible stories of women who have been handed down jewellery over generations, with some of their pieces going back nearly 200 years. Read Amira Khan’s moving story of loss, disappointment and reinvention in the section Reinvent. In Lifestyle, jewel enthusiast and expert Anmol Dhakan shares some useful, simple tricks to preserve the sheen and brilliance of your accoutrements. Find out how best to wear your favourite statement jewellery to make an impact, read history on some of the essential types of jewellery that may make up your bridal trousseau, and unwind with the Real or Fake quiz in Lounge.

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EDITOR’S NOTE

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Acknowledgements

This magazine could not have been completed without the valuable help

and support of

Afrah AnwarAleena NazirAmira Khan

Anmol DhakanAnnalisa Martin

Aziza IqbalBindu MathurFati AhmedJoseph John

Kanika MathurLippy Ramchandani

Malika RehmanMelita D’Souza

Muneeza FarooquiNadra Khatoon

Nita Ranavade RautRabia WasiRadhi RautRashid Wasi

Savitha SharmaTania Gandhi

Photo credits: Sayema Wasi

Say ema Wasi

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Opinion 6

Feature 14

Lifestyle 20

Travelogue 22

Accessorize 36

Wedding 30

Preview 39

Lounge 34

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BEST FRIENDS

FOREVER?

OPINION OPINION

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Decades of gendered marketing and advertising has led to some rather ridiculous and, oftentimes, hurtful notions. Women spend more than they save? Pink is a woman’s colour?

Diamonds are a girl’s best friend? Sayema Wasi speaks to five young women for their take on the popular phrase

“Women aren’t money digging materialists... We’re not some sort of fish you can reel in with some shiny rocks. They’re definitely not a girl’s best friend, but they’re a reasonably good

investement. And I still like them.”- Radhi Raut

Visual Communications Major, American University Dubai

“I don’t think diamonds are a girl’s best friend. A girl’s best friend needs to fulfill some serious requirements... they need to make her happy. Chocolates! Chocolates are a girl’s best

friend. And her man’s credit card, too. Just kidding! - Melita D’Souza

Media and Communications, Christ University, Bangalore

“Diamonds are unnecessary and extremely expensive. I think they’re much better off in mines than on people’s necks and ears. It doesn’t make a lot of sense to me. Friends are neces-

sary, and they usually don’t cost much... you know, unless they really like pizza.”- Savitha Sharma

Bachelor of Bussiness Administration (General), Amity University Dubai

“I honestly think that diamonds are not a girl’s best friend. They’re just stones which come together to form pieces which are put together to look lovely. There isn’t much meaning behind

the phrase - anybody who actually knew a woman would have never said that.”- Annalisa Martin

Media and Communications, Manipal University Dubai

“The fact that diamonds are viewed as a girl’s best friend can be viewed as sexist. For instance, if a man were to express his love for diamonds, it would be considered inappropriate.

However, the phrase could just be a sales gimmick, too.”- Afrah Anwar

LLB (Honours) Law, Lancaster University

Illustration by: Sayema Wasi

FEATURE

It takes a lot of courage and belief to be able to change oneself, but it’s a necessary evil. The purpose of life is evolution – that much has always been apparent to those who understand the

world we live in. How exactly is it that one gets themselves to reinvent?

By Sayema Wasi

In 2009, Amira Khan was a highly accomplished Master’s graduate with top grades, heaps of competence, talent, and ability, and a delusion about the world of opportunity waiting for her to take it up.

Unaware of the extent and intensity of the financial crisis at the time, come 2013, she had been unemployed for three years despite giving endless interviews and attending many skill development and career enhancement workshops.

It was in the summer of that year that she learned that there was only one thing left for her to do – and that was to reinvent.

“I realized that if I had to change my situation for the better, I would have to change myself. And though that was difficult, and especially painful for me at the time since I was severely depressed, I also understood there really was nothing to do except take baby steps forward.”

Determined to make something of herself once more, Amira attended an art course in Turkey along with her best friend. However, things took an unexpected turn for the worse, resulting in Amira receiving yet another major setback.

On a bright, colourful morning in Istanbul, while she stayed at their hotel and read up on art history, her friend left to find some supplies in a rented car. A few hours later, Amira received a call that would change her life permanently. She was informed that her best friend met with a terrible accident and was left fighting for her life. Unfortunately, it was a battle that she eventually lost.

Suddenly, Amira threatened relapse, and all of her progress seemed to be of no consequence.

“I had locked myself in my room, my hands covering my ears, unable to cry or grieve. I just lay there for many days, unable to comprehend why these things kept happening to me; why

everything I cared about put me through so much pain. It was while I was caught up in this disbelief that I had an epiphany that has changed my understanding of life itself.

“I realized I had to keep going on.. I had to stay strong for my friend, and for her family. Her mother and I are very close, and she has often credited me for helping her maintain her strength during that very difficult time.”

Amira was determined not to let her depression get the better of her again. She wrote herself a list of dos and don’ts, which included taking care of herself, eating regularly throughout the day, interacting with at least one person every two days and not laying down on her bed if she was not going to sleep on it.

“I realized the most sensible thing to do was to start small, and stay steady. During those dark days, taking a daily shower felt like the biggest achievement and was something I felt incredibly proud of myself for. It was also extremely hard for me to continue to do things like ironing my clothes and brushing my hair, but ultimately it was those consistent small steps that led me to normalcy.”

A few months later, Amira realized that she wanted to cherish her last few moments with her best friend. She started practicing all

“In those dark days, taking a daily shower felt like the biggest achievement.. it was something I felt incredibly proud of myself for.”

FEATURE

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FEATURE

CLOCKWISE: Amira Khan in 2015; Amira’s resin-preserved flower pendants; independantly designed bangles with professionally sourced materials; close-up of one of the pendants


of the skills she learned at the art classes. In the beginning, she found it was slow, arduous and taxing work, requiring lots of dedication and concentration, which was hard for her to keep up with at the time.

“At first, though I rather enjoyed the process of creating, I found it hard to lose myself in it. It was fun, definitely, and it kept me occupied, but it did not consume me. I found myself busy, but unhappy and I felt like my isolation was growing.”

It was a few weeks later, while practicing Islamic art design, that she thought she would love to see what she had painted on a necklace. Looking into the possibilities, Amira discovered a whole new dimension of art, and a very different perspective.

“I found an exhilarating release.. It was wonderful. Not only was I able to forget all of my worries and problems and sadness, I found that for the first time in my life that I could create from scratch, and that I was creating something I could share with all the people I cared about. It felt even more remarkable when I noticed that I got better mentally, emotionally and in terms of skill, with time.”

Amira soon learned how to assemble unique jewellery. Being naturally industrious with a proclivity for learning, she attended workshops and met with suppliers to attain some very unique skills.

She learned how to preserve flowers in resin, and how to source the best quality pendant moulds and chains, until she was able to build an incredible portfolio of beautiful designs and styles. Her custom-made jewellery comes in various bright colours and is affordable enough by her target demographic of teenage school and college-going girls who have an extremely limited income.

“I want to expand my business further.. For now, I’m focusing on making student-oriented jewellery. Just simple chains and pendants that young girls can wear everyday, and use it to make their outfits fun and unique.

The best part is that they can buy multiple colours of the same design, or multiple designs based around the same colour scheme, so that they can add life and individuality to all of their outfits! I’ve already started selling some of my handmade and hand-crafted jewellery, and I’ve found a lot of appreciation from my customers.”

“I think the most important thing to remember, for anyone in any sort of difficulty, is that everything is impermanent - good or bad. Though it may seem hard to see the bigger picture, the best thing and the worst about this life is that everything passes.”

Amira plans on expanding her range of accessories to include rings, belts, handbags and earrings. She has her sights set on fashion design and shoe design as well. The goal, according to Amira, for every woman in the world, is constant reinvention. v

FEATURE

MovingForward

Amira offers some practical advice on how to put past disappointments behind you and start afresh.

1. All of life is temporary. No matter what the situation, whether ups and downs in business, career opportunities that don’t present themselves, grades that don’t add up, or marriages that don’t work out, it is essential to remember that all of these things are a series of phases that will, sooner or later, resolve themselves.

2. Try new things. Trying your hand at something new becomes essential when everything about your life seems as though it is holding you back. Learning a new skill may not only introduce you to new people, it widens your perspective and increases confidence.

3. Don’t shut yourself in.A common tendency amongst those battling with depression is refusing all sorts of social interaction. Amira believes that it is necessary to interact with others - it helps fend off the feeling of isolation. Sharing your pain and experiences with other people helps you feel lighter and less alone.

4. Take small steps.If going to work seems like something impossible, but something you have to do, start small. Break big tasks into smaller goals, and give yourself time - getting out of bed, showering, dressing up, eating, and driving. Soon, things start to feel less difficult and necessary self-care routines become easier to handle.

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SHINE ON.

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OLDEST JEWELLERY

The world’s oldest jewellery was made from eagle claws was worn by human relatives 130,000 years ago

Made with eagles talons, the ‘jewellery’ was found at a site in Croatia inhabited by Neanderthals

The claws had also been polished

Anthropologists say it is the oldest example of jewellery to be discovered

The claws predate the arrival of modern humans in Europe by 80,000 years

HEIRLOOM RINGS

The tradition of passing down engagement rings is one that is followed in cultures across the world - both East and West

The source of the ring can be from relatives other than direct familial lines, such as an aunt, cousin or step family

Other than wedding or engagement rings, such as sentimental favourites are also passed on

FEATURE

We all love holding on to the comforting memories of our distinct, individual pasts. But what makes the appeal of jewellery so universal, so relatable? Four women speak about their treasured heirlooms - the prized little pieces of history handed down from one generation to

the next

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REMEMBERING THE

Legacy By Sayema Wasi

They say diamonds are forever, and by curious happenstance, the sparkly, precious stones seem to have that in common with something much more personal, and a lot more fluid. For if anything is

truly “forever” – yours for as long as you should last – they are your memories.

Fond memories of the old, creaky bed where you spent listless, lethargic summer afternoons; the unforgettable, lingering scent of the rain long after the sun had dried up all signs of it; the chink of your mother’s bangles as she made you your favourite snack. Memories of the unwashable stains you got on your light-coloured clothes because of the rapidly melting raspberry ice lolly, of how beautiful your mother looked when she wore that necklace

She never let you touch.What is it about holding on to things that makes us feel so safe? Why do numerous cultures across the globe insist upon preserving recipes, languages, customs and traditions? Why do generations of mother, sisters, wives and daughters hand down their treasured jewellery? What if, the real reason we hold on to things, is something altogether more profound? What if we preserve things just because they are beautiful? What if we do it just because beautiful things deserve to be taken care of. Perhaps we do it just because we love.

Four women come forth with their incredible stories about the jewels in their families, some going back nearly 200 years.


FEATURE

Clockwise from left: Bindu Mathur’s elegant nearly 200 year old bangle set; Nita Ranavade Raut’s uncommon gold earrings; Tania Gandhi’s gold and diamond wedding set; Malika Rehman’s traditional Pakistani meenakari necklace

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FEATURE

“There is a set of bangles that were basically designed by my great-grandmother for my grandmother. She gave them to

my grandmother on her wedding day as a gift and as something to remember her by.

Before handing it to her, my great-grandmother told her that when and if she gets a daughter, she has to hand it over to her on her wedding day and she to her daughter. Although it is an admittedly alien concept in our family, that of passing down jewellery, the idea was pretty romantic to my great-grandma. To her, it seemed really cool to think about her bangles keeping her memory alive.. I thin it was her shot at immortality.

My grandmother didn’t wear them very often, but she always liked retelling us the story, so that it would seem to us like we spent a lot more time with our great-grandma than we actually did.

My dad was born before my aunt, and she got married when I was six. On her wedding day, my grandmother went up to her during the wedding ceremony and handed the set over to her.

My aunt smiled and told her to give them to me on my wedding day instead.

That way I have a part of my great-grandma and grandmother. So, now they’re mine! Or will be when I get married.”

Tania GandhiManila, Philippines

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Bindu MathurDubai, UAE

“My mother gave me her jewellery when I got married. It was passed on to her from my grandmother (who got it

from her mother) on her own wedding day, and to me on mine, as part of family tradition.

I have the bangles with me even today, and I’ve taken good care of them. It’s no secret among my family that I’m very proud and protective of the delicate set – they make fun of me for it every time the issue comes up!

Maybe it is a little ridiculous how I barely let anyone touch it, and how I don’t ever take it out unless I absolutely have to. I don’t think I really care, though.

To everyone else it may be just a bunch of stones and some gold, but to me, they are extremely valuable since it makes me feel like part of my mother is here with me. It symbolizes the solid tradition that my family has been following for generations, and the love and trust we share between us all.

It isn’t just a part of my mother, but of her mother before her, and my great-grandmother before them.

The nose ring I wear everyday was also passed on to me from my mother. In our side of the family, mothers always pass on their nose rings to their daughters.”

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FEATURE

“I have a pair of beautiful, old earrings made with rare craftsmanship that once belonged to my aunt. I’m not very sure, but everybody says those earrings were

handed down to her by her parents years ago. She was my father’s older sister, and so, my mother’s sister-in-law.

My aunt had children of her own, but she chose to give that pair of earrings to my mother. Though that was very kind of her, it created a lot of problems within the family for my mother, because my aunt’s daughter-in-laws all loved those earrings dearly and made a big deal about having them leave their household and go into another. So my mother gave them back to my aunt, because she was tired of hearing all the jabs and exhausted with having to deal with meaningless, petty fighting.

But a couple of years later, my aunt gave them to my mother again, and this time there wasn’t as huge a scene as the last. I have the pair, and though they’re incredibly beautiful I don’t like wearing them too much.

Everyone in the extended family still remembers them, so I never wear them to functions in India, just in case everybody starts talking again!

Last year I got them re-polished, and they look absolutely amazing now.”

Nita Ranavade RautDubai, UAE

Malika RehmanDubai, UAE

“This chain was brought over into India by some relatives of mine who were against settling in Pakistan during the time of the

partition. Most of their precious belongings were lost in the confusion of moving and relocating; however, this small piece was able to survive it all.

My mother was the second woman to adorn herself with the chain. My grandmother gifted it to her when she matured and became a lady, shortly before her marriage.

My mother loved it with all her heart – she used to wear it very often, and she’d wear it around the house simply because she loved it so much. She was also very open with it. Despite loving it so much, as was obvious, she never refrained from lending it to anybody who requested to borrow it or try it on.

One time my mother was devastated because she lent it to somebody who said they had misplaced it. As soon as she took it in her stride though, it was found again, and she always said that it was that one incident which taught her never to grieve for materialistic things. It was a story she told me and all my siblings, and all our children after that.

When I was getting married, my mother had to force me to take it as a present because I knew how much it meant to her. She just laughed at my silliness and said no matter how much she loved something, seeing me happy would always be worth more.” v


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LIFESTYLE

Newly made jewellery is always put under ultraviolet light – prior to engaging the piece in any trad-ing practices. This helps under-stand the quality, luminance and standards for the freshly arranged

piece.

Jewellery merchants never leave their wares unprotected, even behind the thick glass casing – in the sleepier shopping hours, they cover all counters with fine muslin, to ensure the safety of precious gems and metals from the continued exposure to harsh artificial lights. “It’s best if simple practices like these are followed at home as well,” says Anmol. “Far too often people leave expensive jewellery lying on their dressers and bedside tables. Respecting ornaments is a great way to ensure

their lasting shine.”

One of the most effective ways to clean out well worn, grimy jewellery is to add some regular dish-washing liquid to lukewarm water, and use a brush dipped in the mixture to clean the set gently

and cautiously.

Every morning, all jewellery is lightly dusted with chamois cloth. Good quality chamois is freely available and is best suited for the regular cleaning of jewellery due

to its soft and supple texture.

For cleaning silver jewellery, boil tamarind in plain water and let it cool to room temperature. Then soak your ornaments for about an hour. Later, use a toothbrush to unseat stubbornly settled grime and rediscover a newer, brighter

metallic character. v

For practical reasons – such as precaution against theft – shopkeepers always put away all display merchandise after shopping hours. However, this is also done to ensure least harm from exposure to the jewels. Anmol says, “It ensures longevity and is a good follow-up practice, as a protection

for valuable investments.”

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Eternal Shine Rigorous, everyday use of the personal decorations we hold so dear can lead to a, sometimes

irreversible, lack of luster and brilliance. Sayema Wasi speaks to Anmol Dhakan, heir to Dhakan Jewellers and self-confessed jewellery

enthusiast about how best to keep your accoutrements in mint condition

LIFESTYLE

Going through everyday life is a harrowing enough ordeal without constantly worrying about the fact that oxygen might just be a poison that kills us

over a period of 70 – 100 years. Never is this concern more immediate than when you take off those precious antique danglers and notice how they don’t look quite as regal as they did on grandma.

How the metal, you notice for the first time, is scratched and dented; and how the stubborn, fine dust has settled between the ornate grooves.

Oxidization of jewellery is the leading factor for the loss of sheen in pearls, the dullness of metals, and the consequent allergic reaction on skin that scores of women (and men) are familiar with. The greenish tinge caused by wearing copper jewellery, for instance, has sparked a hypochondriatic streak in countless people across the globe.

Being born into the family business of trading and dealing in precious metals and gems, Anmol Dhakan is acquainted with and well versed in some of the most important practices in the trade. She gives us the six most important precious jewel care techniques.

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TRAVELOGUE

LIVING 3DDUBAI, DELHI, DOHA

TRAVELOGUE


Muneeza Farooqui, Dubai-based artist, jewellery blogger and director of Inza Art, has lived in three of the most exciting cities in the world - the emirate of Dubai, UAE; the capital of India, Delhi; and the rising Qatari capital of Doha. What are the intricacies of the jewellery market

in these glittering cities? Sayema Wasi finds out

Muneeza Farooqui is the young, energetic face of Inza Art, Dubai. Having been an important part of the DivaLicious fashion and lifestyle exhibition, along with working directly under Splash CEO Raza Baig,

the effervescent artist knows how the world of fashion and art works.

“I’m living a pretty exciting life,” says Farooqui, settling at the table with all of her gadgets around her, ready to be available whenever needed.

“When I was younger, my parents, siblings and I lived in a small, cosy apartment near the Lajpat Nagar markets in Delhi. When I was six, my father was offered a lucrative job in Dubai, and we settled here until he was transferred to Doha in 2008. When I got done with my education, I moved back here myself in 2011.”

When she decided to settle permanently in Dubai, Muneeza turned her interests more solidly towards art, fashion, and jewellery. However, with a business background and no familial outlet, Muneeza agrees that she felt rather othered when she first joined the industry.

The alienation did not last long. Within months, she was offered a lucrative junior position under the Splash CEO, and learned beside some of the best the country has to offer in terms of local talent.

“I came to understand that dressing up is an extremely important daily ritual, specially for women. In an image conscious place like Dubai, with so many people from so many places with so

many different degrees of talent, it becomes essential to garner maximum attention from the first impression.”

To do so, jewellery, says Muneeza, is an essential must-have. “It’s not an option anymore. You have to wear something to be able to distinguish yourself from the crowd.”

We asked her to tell us about the intricacies, tastes and interests of jewellery buyers in all the dazzling cities Muneeza has lived in.

Dubai“Dubai is, without a doubt, the most decadent of the three,” she says immediately, a bright smile on her face. “It really doesn’t get much better than here. Sure, there are somethings that you may find cheaper, or better, or more interesting elsewhere, but overall this is the best place for nearly everything.

“Gold is, obviously, the top selling commodity, but that’s something that’s only common with the Arab, Indian or Indian subcontinental population.”

What are the trends like otherwise, then, outside of these communities?

“Most expatriates from the West have an affinity for diamonds. It’s not like the scenario with Indians who buy large, heavy diamond sets either. These buyers have very specific tastes, and

CRASHING WAVES: The traditional abra on the Deira Creek, Dubai.

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TRAVELOGUETRAVELOGUE

they prefer splurging when needed - birthdays, anniversaries, things of that sort.”

An interesting observation Muneeza made was how watches are regarded in this region.

“Watches are treated as an investment as valuable as gold here, among the more affluent sections of society. It’s interesting because in India, though the trend is on the rise, it’s still in it’s infant stages. In the Middle East it’s a fairly common practice, even though the luxury brand culture is relatively new here.”

DohaIt takes a little longer for Muneeza to start talking about Doha.

“Doha is a lot more.. so to speak.. unusual. Though it is no lie that it continues to grow and change as we speak, the rate of progress there is a little disconcerting.”

She recounts an incident of having been away in the summer, and returning to find three completely unrecognizable buildings in the neighbourhood where she lived.

OLD AND NEW: (left) An ordinary mosque in the Katara complex, Doha, Qatar; (middle) silhouettes of female visitors to the complex; (right) the intricate pathways and winding passages of the tourist attraction and commercial workspace in the heart of Qatar.

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LOUNGE


“Doha is a city that exemplifies change. The constant metamorphosis is disorienting and at the same time incredibly worthy of awe.”

The aesthetic sense, Muneeza believes, among the public is slightly better developed in Qatar as opposed to Dubai.

“Doha seems to depend upon a more understated expression of luxury and exclusivity. While in Dubai it is all about the noise you make and the impression you’re able to leave behind, Doha understands that there is dignity in quietness.”

As such, fashion and jewellery trends seem to reflect that.

“Doha is home to some of the most fashion-savvy women in the world. Not just the Middle East - the world. There are undeniable Western influences and more instances of contemporary, fluid cuts and drapes found in the abayas worn by the stylish women of Doha. Aside from this, and the roaring business that luxury brands do in Qatar, there is also the demand for more Western-influenced designs in jewellery.”

Although it is true, says Muneeza, that traditional Arabian tastes will likely always remain loyal to heavy gold jewellery, diamonds and other precious gems and stones are highly sought after in Doha.

DelhiWhen it comes to speaking about the Indian capital, a wave of nostalgia hits the hitherto talkative and excitable artist. “When I think about Delhi, the first thing I think about is Lajpat Nagar. I remember going there with my mum and sister to buy clothes for Eid, and then going to look around the labyrinth of small shops for matching jewellery and shoes.”

India is the world’s top consumer of gold and gold products. Additionally, the Indian market for high-value brands and precious jewellery is widely acknowledged to be one of the fastest growing in the whole world. With a newly emerging class of the super wealthy, with adequate proof seen in the growing class divide, luxury is booming in India.

“The bulk of precious metal and stone sales in India continue to be gold and diamond, and I don’t think this trend will change any time soon. In India, the peculiarity is in the motives for purchase of expensive jewellery.. It continues to be believed to have little use except as investment for marriage.”

Because the vast majority of the population still cannot afford gold, Muneeza says, “silver and artificial jewellery will consistently remain fixtures on the Indian jewellery market for many years to come.”

The free-spirited go-getter ended our interview quite simply. “All the cities I have lived in have taught me wonderful, beautiful things. But if there is one thing that truly defines one place as being separate and different from another, it is its people.” v

LITTLE PIECES OF DELHI: (this page) a traditional wood-cut jewellery box found on the street market of Lajpat Nagar; (above right) earrings with stones set in 18k gold, found in the Delhi Chandni Chowk area; (below left) Muneeza Farooqui, director of Inza Art, Dubai; (below right) silver hooped ear-rings found in the Janpath street market of Delhi.

“If there is one thing that truly defines one place as being separate and distinct from another, it is its people.”

Photo credits: Sayema Wasi; Muneeza Farooqui

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ANCIENT HISTORY: A jewellery box from the Persian Empire, believed to be from the 1400s, found in the Doha Museum of Islamic Art.


WEDDING

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Most women dream of the perfect wedding. Bright lights, colourful celebrations, dozens of people, heaps of fun, and the perfect outfit. One of the most important elements of the

wedding trousseau is the bride’s jewellery. Sayema Wasi lists the significance of some elegant styles you can opt for

1.Kundan Kundankari – the art of making the kundan style of jewellery – can be dated back to 1526. Its origins are in the northern Indian state of Rajasthan, whereas Hyderabad is found to the sister state for the skill in the south. The bold and unique artisanship of Kundankari soon became extremely popular, especially in the Mughal period among the royals.

It involves setting precious stones, most commonly diamonds, into hollow moulds made of gold foil or silver. Kundankari is considered the oldest form of contemporary jewellery making, and remains just as popular as it was centuries ago.

A traditional kundan set will always be effortlessly stylish. The beautiful cuts, shapes and sizes that kundan sets are available in are versatile, and are available in a series of ranges to suit various budgets.

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WEDDING

4.goldGold has been revered through time, nearly every culture that has found gold has used it in full understanding of its rarity and brilliance.

Gold was first discovered as shining, yellow nuggets. “Gold is where you find it,” so the saying goes, and gold was first discovered in its natural state, in streams all over the world. It is the easiest of the metals to work. It occurs in a virtually pure and workable state, whereas most other metals tend to be found in ore-bodies that pose some difficulty in smelting.

Gold’s early uses were no doubt ornamental, and its splendour and permanence (it neither corrodes nor tarnishes) linked it to deities and royalty in early civilizations.

In Indian culture, gold is a highly traditional and sought-after metal. This is because not only is it beautiful, coming in a wide array of styles, but also because it is seen as a sensible, extremely valuable investment that only appreciates in value over time.

Having a gold set or a pair of earrings at least is necessary for every Indian bride. The basic rule is to start with a gold set, and then work your way into your budget depending on other tastes and likes. v

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WEDDING

2.PEarlsIn ancient religions, pearls are symbolic of the moon and possessing magical properties. In fact, most religions make reference to pearls. They are symbolic in Hindu, Hebrew, Christian and Islamic religions. Pearls are heavenly and pure, the symbol of perfection.

Once upon a time, the family jewels were passed down from generation to generation. Pearls were popular and worn by royalty only. Who else could afford such rare luxuries from the ocean bed?

Pearls are a staple in the modern woman’s wardrobe – chic and sophisticated, a set of cultured pearls is a go-to for formal events and work conferences. They add class without being attention-seeking.

3.DIAMONDSDiamonds were first discovered in India. This was in 800 BC, and soon Alexander the Great brought them back with him to Europe after his campaign in India. Before the Medieval era Diamonds were worn rough, or cut and polished only on their upper surfaces. It was in this form that diamonds used to ornament temples, goblets and crowns. The history of cutting diamonds dates back to the beginning of the 1400’s in Paris.

Most notably, diamonds became a must-have due to an unbelievably popular marketing campaign by DeBeers that said real men propose marriage to the women they love with a diamond ring. The campaign took such strong hold in people’s minds that it translated into modern tradition.

While a pure diamond set is out of reach for most women, designs combined with stones and other metals are available in a variety of price ranges.

A diamond pendant is a simple and affordable must-have. A barely noticeable bauble that can be worn everyday, regardless of the outfit, helps maintain a degree of individuality.

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LOUNGE LOUNGE

SO YOU THINK YOU

KNOW YOUR BLING

ANSWERS:

1. Fake 2. Real 3. Real 4. Real5. Fake 6. Fake

Although diamonds, gems and gold are irresistibly beautiful, there are plenty of more affordable options - such as some of the artificial replicas pictured here - for the average young woman. Sayema Wasi asks, think you know your bling? Take the Real or Fake quiz to find out!

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ACCESSORIZE

Statement jewellery is the modern woman’s go-to for livening up a regular outfit. Boring, safe monochromes, simple jeans and t-shirt ensembles, and frayed old smocks can all be made chic almost instantly with the right choice

of statement jewellery.

Here are some easy ideas to help you choose the right statement piece. Remember though, rules are meant to be broken, accessorizing is all about having fun, and style is anything you’re comfortable with!

1. One at a time.Statement jewellery attracts too much favourable attention. That’s why it’s more sensible to stick to wearing only one bold piece at a time – that way, the outfit is memorable, the attention is focused where you want it to be, and you can save your other pieces for the novelty value for later. If you’re going for a chunky necklace, ditch long dangly earrings – go for studs instead.

2. Use sunscreen. Everywhere.Statement pieces direct people’s eyesight towards your neck, face, arms and hands (and legs too, if anklets are your thing), depending on the piece you’re wearing. Although it is most important to take care of your skin just for yourself, knowing

that people might notice irregular tan lines can rob you of self-confidence in important situations. Use sunscreen twenty minutes before leaving home regardless of whether you’re staying indoors or outdoors, and never neglect sunscreen if you’re going to be out in the scorching desert heat.

3. Mix it up. Take advantage of the versatility of statement pieces by mixing it up every time. Different colours, textures and styles can be the USP of multiple outfits - not just one or two. Although it’s perfectly fine to wear the same outfit as much as you like, mixing up patterns and colours makes dressing up something you can look forward to each time. Variety is, as they say, the spice of life!

4. Contrast is key. Be careful not to make it too much of a good thing, which is an easy mistake to make and an immediate way to ruin an otherwise great outfit. Contrast solid coloured clothes with brightly coloured, patterned jewellery, or wear patterned, busy dresses or shirts with solid coloured necklaces, bracelets or earrings – statement pieces can get lost if they’re worn closely with patterned clothing. v

Spectacular if you get it right. Disastrous should you get it wrong. Statement jewellery is, for most women, a reckless venture into uncharted territory. What is it about big, chunky,

brightly couloured baubles that so terrify women? The answer, according to Sayema Wasi, lies in decided simplicity

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