Bridging Heritage and Style: Rajputi & Jaipuri Jewellery for the Modern Indian Bride

Vaibhav Verma
Jul 8
6 min read

The wedding season is the perfect time for Indian brides-to-be to celebrate their culture with bridal jewellery that honors tradition while embracing contemporary flair. Rajputi and Jaipuri jewellery – rooted in Rajasthan’s royal legacy – exemplify this blend. Indian jewellery has a rich heritage of intricate craftsmanship and vibrant colors, and today’s brides love fusion jewellery that merges the grandeur of traditional Indian jewellery with modern design trends. Padmavat Ratan channels this spirit by reviving regal Rajputi pieces with a modern touch, creating bridal and wedding jewellery that feels both heritage-inspired and utterly contemporary.

Rajputi bride — “The modern Indian bride blending heritage and elegance – adorned in Rajputi grandeur from Padmavat Ratan.”

Rajputi Jewellery: A Regal Legacy

Rajputi jewellery represents the traditional Rajasthani bridal ensemble, featuring an opulent array of necklaces, maang-tikka, nose rings, bangles, and more, once worn by the queens of Rajasthan. Notable pieces include the Kanthi choker and Rani Haar (long necklace) combined for a regal look, the spherical Borla maang tikka with dual features, and the prominent nath (nose ring), traditionally symbolizing marriage. A typical Rajputi set begins with a Timaniya (Aad)—

Rajputi Rani haar — “Rani Haar and Aad chokers from our royal Rajputi collection.”-- Padmavat Ratan

a square or rectangular choker traditionally gifted to the bride’s family, often paired with a longer Rani Haar that drapes elegantly. Accompanying these necklaces, brides wear thick Bangadi bangles (now often diamond-studded Pacheli bangles) on their wrists and intricate Haath Phool hand harnesses connecting rings to the wrist. Each piece holds significance: for instance, the Nath is not merely ornamental but historically a rite-of-passage, originating in the Vedic era as a symbol of a woman’s marital status. In modern weddings, Rajputi pieces still exude their royal elegance—think multi-layered pearl chokers, filigree jhumkas, and enamel work.

Jaipuri Jewellery: Crafts of the Pink City

Jaipur, known as the "Pink City" of Rajasthan, is renowned for its Kundan-Meenakari artistry, with Jaipuri jewellery often representing these intricate styles. Kundan jewellery, characterized by refined gold foil settings adorned with uncut gems, was perfected under Mughal patronage and became a hallmark of Rajasthani royalty. "Kundan jewellery, also known as Kundan Keshri, Bikaneri, or Jaipuri jewellery," continues to be a vital component of traditional bridal collections. Jaipur artisans are also famous for meenakari (vibrant enamel work), especially on the back of Kundan pieces. This results in jewellery featuring a spectrum of blues, greens, and reds set in elaborate gold designs, ideal for brides who appreciate color.

Rajputi kundan set — “Jaipuri Kundan-Meenakari designs that radiate pink city charm.”

Although deeply traditional, Jaipuri designs have evolved to suit modern tastes, offering lightweight polki necklaces, delicate enamel-set earrings, and fusion pieces that combine Kundan with pearls or contemporary stones. Today's designers embrace this blend: an Indo-Western fusion trend, for instance, pairs Kundan necklaces with silver chains or minimal studs, bridging cultural boundaries. Whether it’s a classic polki choker or a sleek gold pendant with traditional motifs, Jaipuri elements add a touch of royal elegance to both ethnic and contemporary outfits.

Fusion Trends: Tradition Meets Modernity

The modern Indian bride often opts for fusion jewellery—pieces that pay homage to heritage while aligning with contemporary fashion. Contemporary fusion designs are thriving. Brides might pair a traditional Rajputi choker with a Western gown or don a heavy Rani Haar over a more streamlined Anarkali. As one style guide mentions, "fusion jewellery is a dream come true" for those merging tradition with modernity. Picture delicate gold chains adorned with vibrant gems or jhumkas reimagined in geometric shapes. For instance, layering a minimalist diamond choker beneath a Kundan set or wearing a polki pendant on a leather cord. The secret lies in balance—mixing metals such as gold, silver, and rose-gold, and textures.

Contemporary meets classic – fusion styling with Rajputi influences.”

Indo-Western fusion pieces frequently incorporate traditional stones like emeralds, rubies, and pearls, set in modern designs and metals. Reflecting Rajasthan’s spirit of bold elegance, today's brides might even mix and match: a Borla tikka with an off-shoulder gown or a string of temple-inspired pearls with a structured jacket. These fusion styles allow each bride to express her individuality while honoring traditional Indian jewellery forms.

Styling Tips for the Modern Bride

Selecting the perfect bridal jewelry is an art form. Here are some tips for pairing Rajputi and Jaipuri pieces with any wedding ensemble:

Consider Your Outfit: Align the grandeur of your attire with the scale of the jewelry. A heavily adorned lehenga or sweetheart-neck gown can accommodate a statement Rajputi choker or chandbali earrings, while a simpler outfit (such as a sleek saree or Anarkali) allows bold jewelry to stand out. Mix metals and layers: don't hesitate to stack chains or bracelets.
Pay Attention to Neckline: The neckline of your dress influences your jewelry choice. Strapless or sweetheart necklines pair beautifully with a statement necklace or choker. For high-neck or collared blouses, opt for delicate earrings or skip the necklace to emphasize a bold maang tikka. Off-the-shoulder and boat-necks go well with simple drop earrings or a light choker. Always conduct a jewelry trial with your final outfit to ensure nothing is overshadowed or clashes.
Mix Traditional with Minimalist: Balance heavy pieces with simpler ones. For instance, pair a Kundan choker from your heirloom collection with a clean solitaire necklace, or wear one jhumka and one stud earring. Layering thin bangles with a single studded cuff can tone down the look while maintaining its ethnic appeal. Consider comfort too – for a daytime ceremony, you may opt for lighter polki studs and forgo the heavy Rani Haar in favor of a single Aad choker.

Jewel Spotlight: Chokers, Maang-Tikka, Nath & More

Make every piece significant. Here's how to incorporate classic Rajputi/Jaipuri items into your wedding and reception attire:

Choker Sets (Kanthi): The Rajputi Kanthi choker is essential.
Pair a Kundan or pearl choker (such as Padmavat Ratan’s Maharani Ruby Kundan Set) with a v-neck or strapless lehenga to add vintage allure. For added drama, layer two chokers or combine a statement choker with a slim modern necklace.
Maang-Tikka (Borla): A Borla maang-tikka with its round design enhances center-parted hair, ideal for traditional buns or loose waves. Padmavat Ratan’s Bor Mangtikka designs lend an antique touch to any bridal hairstyle. For a modern minimalist look, choose a jeweled matha-patti worn with loose hair to blend classic and contemporary styles.
Nath (Nose Ring): The large Rajput-style Nath (often connected by a chain to the ear) is both symbolic and fashionable. Complement it with a simple side-bun and small earrings to let the nath stand out. For a modern twist, try a sleek diamond-stud nose-pin or a half-hoop nose ring for reception events. Traditionally, wearing a Nath signifies marriage; today, it makes a bold style statement—ensure it matches your ensemble’s color and hairstyle.
Rani Haar: The ultra-long Rani Haar necklace instantly creates a regal silhouette. Drape it over a solid blouse or a flowing gown for a queenly presence. Since it is substantial on its own, keep other jewelry minimal—perhaps just matching studs and bangles. A Rani Haar can also be split into layers if convertible, offering a refreshed look at the reception.
Bangles (Bangadi/Pacheli): Thick Bangadi bangles or diamond Pacheli bracelets are iconic Rajputi accents. Stack them from wrist to mid-forearm, especially with sheer embroidered sleeves or sarees. Mix metal bangles (gold and silver) for a fusion feel. Traditionally, Rajput brides wore them up to the elbow—today, you can choose full-length or just a wristful.
Aad/Timaniya Choker: The square Aad choker (Timaniya) is a standout piece. Wear it as your main necklace for a minimalist look, perhaps with a contemporary gown or sari. Its strong geometric shape makes it a striking focal piece: let the choker speak for itself and pair with simple earrings. Alternatively, layer it under a lighter Rani Haar or strand of pearls for maximum impact.
Haathphool & Bajuband: Don’t forget hand and arm jewelry. A delicate Haath Phool (hand-harness) or Bajuband (armlet) in Kundan or pearl work adds subtle aristocracy. These pieces peek out beautifully when wearing sleeveless blouses or sleeved lehengas, completing the ensemble with intricate details.

As you plan your bridal ensemble, remember that confidence is the best accessory, but well-chosen jewelry is a close second. Blend old and new, and most importantly, wear what makes you feel regal on your special day. For inspiration, explore Padmavat Ratan’s collections: their Maharani Ruby Kundan Choker Set and Chandrika Pearl Set (above) are perfect examples of Rajputi heritage reimagined for today’s bride.

Ready to shine like royalty?

Discover Padmavat Ratan’s extensive range of Rajputi and Jaipuri jewelry—from chokers to matha-pattis—and find the perfect pieces to complete your bridal ensemble. Shop now and merge heritage with style on your wedding day with Padmavat Ratan’s elegant collections.