HISTORY OF BOLLYWOOD JEWELLERY
Bollywood jewellery has long been a staple of Indian culture, with many designs and motifs around for centuries. The term “Bollywood” is a combination of the words “Bombay” (now Mumbai) and “Hollywood”, which is a reference to the large and influential film industry in India that produces many of the country’s most popular and iconic movies.
Bollywood jewellery has been a part of Indian culture for centuries. Its designs have been inspired by the Mughal era and traditional Indian motifs, and have been used to adorn the bodies of royalty, actors, and ordinary people alike. The use of jewellery in Bollywood dates back to the earliest days of the Indian film industry. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, jewellery was often used as a way to show status and wealth, as well as to enhance the appearance of the actors in films. As the industry grew, so did jewellery use, and the designs became increasingly varied and intricate.
The 1920s saw a shift towards more modern designs, with the use of diamonds, rubies and emeralds becoming increasingly popular. This was a period of great experimentation, with jewellery designers and filmmakers collaborating to create unique looks that would capture the imagination of the audience.
The 1940s saw a shift towards more traditional designs, with the use of gold, silver and precious stones becoming increasingly popular. One of the most popular styles of jewelry from the 1940s was the choker necklace. These necklaces were worn high on the neck and often featured large, central pendants. The pendants were often adorned with precious stones and intricate filigree work, and could be paired with matching earrings and bracelets. Another popular style of jewelry from the 1940s were the jhumkas, which are large, bell-shaped earrings that dangle from the earlobe. Jhumkas were often decorated with intricate designs and colorful beads, and were worn with sarees and traditional Indian attire.
In the 1950s, Bollywood jewellery began to incorporate more modern designs, such as the use of coloured stones, enamel and plastic. This trend continued into the 1960s, with fashion-forward designs becoming increasingly popular. During this time, Bollywood jewellery also began to be mass produced, making it more accessible to the public. In the 1960s, Bollywood jewellery began to feature modern designs, such as geometric patterns and floral motifs. This trend continued into the 1970s, when jewellery became even more ornate and intricate.
Bollywood jewellery is known for its bold and colorful designs, often featuring bright colors like turquoise, red, and orange. These colors traditionally symbolize fertility, love, and prosperity.
Today, Bollywood jewellery is made with a variety of materials, including gold, silver, and semi-precious stones. Many pieces are handcrafted and feature intricate designs that are unique to the wearer. Bollywood jewellery is still heavily embellished, although it has also adopted a more contemporary aesthetic. Many pieces are now made from a variety of materials, including brass, copper, and silver, and feature intricate designs and vibrant colours. Bollywood jewellery is now available in a variety of styles, from traditional to modern, and is often seen as a statement piece.
