In contrast to its name, it actually relates to the present trend and is in reality considered more of fancy jewellery. Says Gunashekar, “the real antique jewellery is only that which is passed on through the ages. What we now craft in the name of antique jewellery is actually the modern day jewellery in gold or silver, which goes through a process of oxidising and is sometimes buried in a pot of clay, to give it a dull look.” “Antique silver is an offshoot of this process,” he says. In lieu of its uncommon appearance, wherein the shine of gold is conspicuous by its absence, a very select clientele desires antique jewellery.

Beautiful Bengali bride The price of antique gold or antique silver is usually Rs.150 to Rs. 200 more than the normal price per gram. “In contrast, real antiques are totally priceless and the price per gram could range anywhere between Rs. 2,500 to Rs. 3,000 per gram,” the manager of the upscale jewellery mart adds. Minakari jewellery: Minakari or enamelling a unique combination of gems, enamel pigments and precious stones, was born as a result of Shah Jahan’s aesthetic vision that transformed enamelling into a sophisticated art. The outcome was a range of items, from jewellery to imperial thrones. The motifs used in the original minakari work were flowers, plants, scrolling vines and animal forms, amongst others. The jewellery of the past speaks volubly of the unmatched calibre of the artisans of the past and their ability to generate some of the finest designs. Says Gunashekar, “If observed closely, the nakshatra design, by the Diamond Trading Corporation, is an offshoot of the seven-stone diamond earring (vaira thodu) concept in the South, which is purchased by most of the parents of prospective brides. Keeping the seven stones as base, thousands of designs have been produced by the DTC to suit the changing trends.” What is it about traditional or old jewellery that remains attractive for years, one might wonder! The answer is, `They have shone through to stand the test of time’. Minakari jewellery is sought after more, by people in North India. The price starts from Rs. 3,000 for the simplest form of jewellery.

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