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ANCIENT INDIAN-JEWELRY-Jewelry from Harappan,Mohenjodaro & Mughal civilization
Ancient Indian ethnic jewelry has been created since the Neolithic-era, (7500 BC to 5000 BC). During this time the Indus Valley civilization existed along with the Harappan culture, at this time Iron was being developed in various forms. The Indus valley area covered part of the Indian continent and Persia (Iran), whereas the Harappans were people from Mesopotamia, ancient Egypt, China and other parts of Asia. They covered a large area along the Sarswati River as mentioned in the Rig-Veda.
The ancient Indian ethnic jewelry in that period consisted of many kinds of beads and shells, turquoise, agates, carnelians and many other stones (uncut), were used. During the Harappan culture, since it was the developing metal age, many ornaments using gold, silver, bronze and copper were crafted. The dancing girl of Mohenjodaro (2400 BC) is a good example of ancient jewelry of that era. The ancient ethnic jewelry at that time also depicted animals, trees, sexual organs etc. Jewelry was mostly worn by women and passed on to the next generation. The Harappan civilization also believed in Pashupati (Lord of the animals) as their major god or deity.
Life-style in the Indian sub-continent grew in richness and power starting from 650 BC to 250 BC when great kingdoms were formed. In fact when the Mughals ruled India their kingdom was vast and so was their power. Once the life –style increased arts and crafts became more prevalent. Indians were very talented in creating ancient ethnic jewelry, using various gemstones. From the 7th century BC, known to us many varieties of gemstones were used according to the Indian Jyotish Vidya (Indian astronomical science), namely diamond, jacinth, ruby, lapis-lazuli, sapphire, moonstone, pyrite, chrysoberyl, various rock crystals, emerald, tourmaline, garnet, topaz. These ethnic gemstones were divided into two groups, according to Indian astronomy and astrology, major gems and minor gems. (Maharatnas and Ratnas).
Ethnic jewelry thrived all through during the reign of the Mauryas, the Marathas and the Mughals .Artistic and intricate jewelry reached its limits when these dynasties ruled.
Jewelry played an important role during an Indian marriage. The adornment of the bride was the most vital factor. The “Solah Shringar” or Sixteen Adornments consisted of adorning the bride from head to foot. This meant cosmetic and jewelry.
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