Pachchikam jewellery is an indigenous jewellery craft belonging to the region of Kutch in the western Indian state of Gujarat. Such jewelleries are extremely popular even today, and are exquisite masterpieces renovated by contemporary jewellers. Today, stylish and contemporary jewelleries appeal to a woman`s heart, as opposed to the traditional gold and silver ornaments. Pachchikam jewellery boasts of an ideal designer pattern adorned with a soft, metallic shimmer, which is similar to the charm exuded by platinum jewels. Such attractive jewels have no pre-existing colour designs, but employ unique artistic designs and silver linings which impart a rare beauty to these ornaments. Most significantly, Pachchikam jewels can be worn on all formal occasions, for achieving an elegant look.
History of Pachchikam Jewellery
The history of Pachchikam jewellery is veiled in mystery. However, it is believed that this kind of jewellery had originated during the 16th century. The designs of such jewels bear a close resemblance to European patterns and they were utilized by British dignitaries and the nobility. Pachchikam jewels arrived in India, as a consequence of trade which had commenced during the British Raj in the country. Following the introduction of this excellent jewel to Indian shores, Indian jewellers modified its designs and lent an Indian characteristic to these types of jewels. The term Pachchikam has been obtained from `pachchigar` which implies `goldsmith` or even `paanch` which means five, since a majority of the Pachchikam jewels are manufactured by hands. While Jaipur`s `Kundan` or `Tadtar` possesses an ethnic appearance, Pachchikam jewels are identifiable and boast of a crude look. Since these beautiful jewels are mass produced by jewellery makers who generally follow a simple lifestyle, they are conservative and ethnic in appearance.
Making of Pachchikam Jewellery
The process of manufacturing Pachchikam jewels is time consuming, complex and laborious. First of all, Pachchikam jewellers insert a piece of stone in a silver case, whose edge is tightly pressed onto this stone, with the help of fingers. Thereafter, grooves are made therein. Though the original art of crafting these jewels follow European style, artisans dexterously employ Indian designs into Pachchikam jewels. A major feature of Pachchikam jewellery is that jewellers utilize silver instead of gold to craft these amazing jewels, due to which the Pachchikam ornaments bear a precious appearance, just like platinum jewellery.
Pachchikam jewels involve a wide variety of mesmerizing products like `jhumkas`, chokers, necklaces, earrings and bangles. They are highly popular throughout the entire country due to their reasonable prices and aesthetic appeal.
