India is known for its rich cultural heritage, which you can clearly see in the traditional jewellery and outfits from every state. The gold jewellery of Maharashtra has always showcased the Maharashtrian culture, which has been preserved by its people for centuries. The Maharashtrian jewellery designs are inspired by the ones worn by Marathas and Peshwas in their ancient era.
From different styles of necklaces with uniquely designed gold pendant sets to the paithani saree and the chandracore bindi, everything contributes to the quintessential Maharashtrian woman’s appearance, which symbolizes the state’s rich cultural heritage.
This post is for people who are curious about the beautifully carved Maharashtrian jewellery designs. Let us have a look at the traditional gold jewellery of Maharashtra and its significance.
Mohan Mala
It is a traditional Maharashtrian gold necklace set, designed with two to eight layers of gold beads strung together to make a unique jewellery article. These are worn on special occasions, including weddings and festivals.
Kolhapuri Saaj
The necklace is named after a very popular city in Maharashtra, Kolhapur. This neckpiece is famous for its unique 21 pendants with a beautiful gold locket in between called ‘saaj-ghat’. The 21 pendants have intricate leaf-shaped designs, among which 10 represent the ten avatars of Lord Vishnu and 8 symbolize ashtamangal (auspiciousness). The gold locket in between is the taweez to protect the couple from evil eyes, and the remaining 2 are rubies and emeralds.
Lakshmi Haar
The unique design of the Laxhmi haar is also popular as a putli haar, coin necklace, or temple necklace. It consists of gold coins strung together with silk thread with the motifs of the goddess Lakshmi. The Marathi ladies have cherished this necklace since the 17th century and wear it on every special occasion.
Tode
Tode is the name given to the intricately carved gold bangles, weighing approximately 250–300 gm. These are handmade bangles that take around a month to fabricate. It is given as a gift from the groom’s family to the bride, which she wears with the green glass bangles as her wedding chooda.
Vaaki
Vaaki is the armlet or bajuband worn on both arms to enhance the beauty of the bride. It is made of gold and is available in intricate designs.
Ambada Veni Phool
While decorating the bride for her special occasion, Ambada is used to decorate her hair. It is a 22-karat gold hairpin, engraved with different motifs, and used to cover the bride’s bun and make her look more beautiful.
Thushi
This choker-styled gold necklace set makes every Marathi woman stand out. Thushi is carved with different sizes of gold beads woven together very closely to form layers with a mesh of strings. It has an adjustable thread at the back to make it suitable for everyone who wears it.
These jewellery designs will be easily available at renowned jewellers in Maharashtra, such as Waman Hari Pethe Sons. So, explore the traditional Maharashtrian jewellery at the top store to get authentic designs and the perfect pieces for your special occasions.