Necklace is considered as one of the most elegant and stylish Indian jewelleries. It is an accessory or jewellery, which is worn around the neck. Necklaces are often moulded from metal chains; sometimes it is attached to a locket or a pendant and comes in varying lengths and styles. Apart from metals, necklaces can also be fabricated with cloth, and they sometimes incorporate rocks particularly gems, wood or shells. Necklaces are available in several different styles and designs.
History of Necklace
The existence of necklaces can be found scattered throughout the rich history of the country. The necklace, dating back nearly 5,000 years, is lined with pendants of banded agate and jade beads suspended by a thick gold wire that passes through a perfectly drilled hole in each bead.
Significance of Necklace
In India, a lot of sentimental and traditional values are associated with a necklace. A piece of necklace adorns the beauty of a person. In certain cases, this particular piece of jewellery is passed on from generation to generation. The main purpose of this kind of hereditary transformation is to preserve thefamily tradition, wealth, values, sentiments, warmth as well as love. It also strengthens the bond of a family. Thus, it can be said that the necklace is a jewellery piece, which apart from adorning the beauty of neck, also passes the tradition in Indian context. The necklace thus accentuates the daintiness and beauty of a woman. Wearing necklaces is an age old tradition. In the past, gold necklaces were much in use, however with changing times, designer and costume necklaces have become more popular. Necklaces are also worn as accessories.
Types of Necklace
Necklace is commonly known as "Haar" in India. A necklace becomes stunning with a brilliant cut or design or with the gems of which the necklace is being made. There are different types of necklace available like;
•Collar Necklace: Collar necklace are around 12 to 14 inches long and are basically worn in halfway up of the neck
•Choker Necklace: These types of necklaces are around 14 to 16 inches long in nature. They are generally worn under one"s collar bone. They are stiff and remain inelastic around the neck
•Princess Necklace: These are one of the most popular necklaces that women love to wear. These necklaces hang under the collar bone
•Opera Necklace: Opera is best for those who love to create a dramatic look.These are long and are 28 to 34 inches long.
•Rosary Necklace: These are simple "Y" shaped necklaces. They have a cross pendant.
•Graduated Necklace: These are one-strand necklaces that have the size of small pearls and are graduated from the front of the necklace.
•Plastron Necklace: These necklaces are heavy and it covers the whole chest part of a body. These can be both stiff and flexible.
•Twist Necklace: Twist necklaces are made up of lot of twisted strands.
•Rope Necklace: They are one of the most stylish necklaces that can be worn. Several knots are made to give the necklace a unique look.
Simple necklaces like thin necklace chains are not only considered as ideal for daily use but they can also add additional grace to even simple outfits. One can wear a simple thin chain necklace with a pendant as it enhances its charm and elegance. These pendants can be of various types. They can either be silver shapes like moon, stars, heart; gemstones, solid gold, even alphabet pendants are available. Even, diamond necklaces are available in some simple basic styles.
Necklaces are worn by both men and women in cultures around the world for purposes of adornment and social status.