Goan Traditional Jewellery and Its History

by krishna kant sharma SEO

Situated in the coastal Konkan region, on the banks of the Arabian Sea, is the smallest Indian state by the name GOA. One of the favorite holiday destinations in India, Goa is known for its diversity and melting pot culture. Being a Portuguese territory for more than 450 years, this state showcases the perfect amalgamation of European and Indian cultures. Be it in art, architecture, music, food, dressing or jewellery, everything has a unique blend of both traditions.

Despite being the smallest state, Goa is also one of India’s fashion hubs. From traditional jewellery and dresses to funky, modern ones, everything available here is classy and unique. One of the major things every buyer looks forward to in Goa is jewellery shopping especially traditional Goan jewellery. It is said that Goan jewellery was brought in front of the world especially to the Europeans by “DAIVADNYA BRAHMINS” who were skilled jewellery designers, involved extensively in the export of gold and silver. It is because of them, demand for these has risen.

The jewellery designs these days are a fusion of traditional and modern but in the Pre-Portuguese era, during the Kadamba dynasty the designs on the ornaments mostly reflected cultural and art forms of that period, seals of the dynasty or image of deities. These were later on modified and merged along with the modern designs to suit the current trends. But still, there is a lot of demand for the goa jewellery which are essential in many of the family events like engagements, weddings, ceremonies and festivals. Goan Jewellery enhances and completes a look and is also considered as auspicious by many. When worn along with traditional Goan dresses, the beauty of a woman increases manifold.

Let’s have a look at the most essential piece of Goan Traditional Jewellery:

KASITHAALI:

Kasithaali is the local name for mangalsutra & is one of the most essential pieces of Goan jewellery. Mostly worn by the married woman and bride, this is a gold chain with coral beads and a Lakshmi pendant. Konkan tradition mostly has a Lakshmi pendant along with Kasithaali as it signifies bringing home of a goddess.

GALSIRI:

Galsiri is another neck ornament worn by Goan ladies. These are the traditional necklace with coin-shaped design hung on a chain having coral and gold beads. The coins in these necklaces mostly have images of Goddess and these are worn along with Goan traditional dress during ceremonies and festivities.

BAJUBANDH:

Bajubandh or gold armlet is another unavoidable piece in a Goan bridal jewellery set. The most common pattern in this is floral or peacock and are worn on the upper arms by woman. From the simplest design to an extravagant one, you can get anything according to your choice.

TODE:

Tode bangles are an important part of bridal ornaments in the western region of the country, especially in Goa and Maharashtra. They are intricately carved gold bangles having antique designs that can be crafted only by expert goldsmiths. These openable bangles are easy to wear and come with a screw to adjust their size.

PAKE:

If you want something that is not so common yet traditional for your ear then pake is definitely for you. It’s a traditional ear cuff worn especially on festive occasions and ceremonies. These extremely beautiful pieces with beads, stones and motifs are go-to-jewellery for any woman, and the designs for these can also be altered from minimal to extravagant.

NATHINI:

A traditional Goan look is incomplete without a nathini. Nathini is a nose ornament worn by women. Mostly adorned with pearls and beads, these can come in any shape and design and sometimes these are also supported by a gold chain that can be attached to ears or hairs.

Goan ornaments definitely have more to them, and if you want to add more to your look, check out online and do let us know if we are missing out on something important or not!