5 Rajasthani Necklaces for the Modern Indian Bride (Get the Bollywood Look!)

What's common between Deepika Padukone in "Padmaavat" and Aishwarya Rai in "Jodha Akbar"? The lovely Royal Rajasthani costumes they wore! After the release of these movies, Rajasthani jewellery designs became popular, especially among Indian brides. The elaborate pieces worn by these actresses made their way into mainstream fashion. As someone with a love for Rajasthani jewellery, I've put together a list of my favorite Rajasthani necklace designs that every bride should consider.

1. Aad Necklace

The Aad necklace, a traditional Rajasthani choker, is a must-have for brides. Made from a curved plate in gold or silver, it is embellished with colored beads and stones. Sometimes, it also features a jalar (tassel). This necklace, worn by the Rajput community, became famous thanks to movies like "Padmaavat". Deepika Padukone sported various designs of Aad throughout the film.

For authentic Aad necklaces in gold, check out Tanishq, the brand behind the jewellery in "Padmaavat". If you prefer gold-plated silver, Amrapali offers beautiful pieces. Even non-Rajasthani brides are now opting for Aad necklaces, as they add a royal touch to any bridal look.

 

2. Hansli Necklace

Hansli necklaces are another iconic piece of Rajasthani jewelry. This rigid necklace sits on the collarbone and features engravings on its surface. It can be solid, hollow, flat, or three-dimensional. Unisex in nature, Hansli is worn by both men and women. Shahid Kapoor and Aishwarya Rai both wore Hansli necklaces in "Padmaavat" and "Jodha Akbar", respectively.

Hansli necklaces enhance the collarbone and are versatile enough to pair with Indian, western, and fusion outfits. You can layer them with other jewellery for a festive look. I own a silver Hansli from Fab India, which features a mix of oxidized silver and gold. For more modern variations, explore Amrapali’s collection.

3. Tevta Necklace

The Tevta necklace is a sentimental piece for me. It’s a large pendant, usually made of gold, and often features square or rectangular shapes. These vintage necklaces can be quite heavy due to the amount of gold used. My own Tabeez necklace, inherited from my grandmother, is over four generations old.

Tabeez necklaces are unique and stand out from mainstream designs. If you're looking for something similar, opt for a smaller size like the one worn by Nagmati in "Padmaavat". Amrapali offers beautiful Tabeez designs, and you can also find them on various e-commerce platforms.

4. Galsari Necklace

The Galsari necklace is another type of choker, adorned with pearls or gold beads. It is worn on the middle part of the neck, creating an illusion of a longer neck. This necklace can also be layered with other jewelry for a regal look. My mother often pairs her Gulbandh with a two-layer Matar Mala, a long chain of beads.

Gulbandh necklaces are perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any bridal ensemble. You can find both vintage and contemporary designs, making them a versatile addition to your jewellery collection.

5. Hamail Necklace

The Hamail necklace is a long piece with a solid center, usually rectangular but sometimes in other shapes like a pan leaf. Decorated with beads and gold coins, it is mainly worn by Jat women in Rajasthan. My Hamail necklace, a vintage piece, is paired with traditional armbands called Dediyas, crafted from solid gold cylinders.

Hamail necklaces are not as easily available in cities, but local Jewelers in Rajasthan can custom-make them for you. They add a unique, traditional touch to any bridal outfit and are perfect for brides looking to stand out.

Conclusion Modern Indian Bride

Rajasthani necklaces are not just jewellery pieces; they are a celebration of the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan. From the elegant Aad to the sentimental Tabeez, these necklaces add a royal touch to any bridal look. As you prepare for your big day, consider incorporating these stunning pieces into your ensemble.

Whether you choose a traditional design or a modern twist, Rajasthani necklaces are sure to make you feel like royalty. Explore brands like Tanishq and Amrapali for authentic pieces, and don't forget to check out local Jewelers for unique finds.

Embrace the Bollywood look with these exquisite Rajasthani necklaces and make your wedding day unforgettable!