Besides diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds, all gemstones fall under the semi-precious category. In spite of what the name may suggest, semi-precious gemstones can be as valuable, or even more valuable than precious gemstones, depending on many different factors. Semi-precious gemstones are not as rare as precious gemstones, but certain desirable properties can drive the price of semi-precious gemstones skyward. This handy guide should help you to better understand the fascinating, shimmering world of semi-precious gemstones.
There are hundreds of semi-precious gemstones available on the market today, and some of them aren’t actually made out of stone! For example, pearl, amber, and coral are all naturally occurring substances that are still grouped under the ‘semi-precious’ umbrella term. Some of the most popular semi-precious gemstones include amethyst, turquoise, citrine, garnet, peridot, topaz, iolite, ametrine, and calcite (pictured). People often wear these striking stones in jewelry, but they can also be collected on their own just for the sake of enjoyment. Some people even believe that they have healing properties.
An Overview of a Few Popular Semi-Precious Gemstones
Turquoise: This volcanic stone ranges in color from light blue to a dark blue-green. It is commonly used to make Native American jewelry, and it is usually set in silver. According to Southwest Silver Gallery (a company that regularly deals with this semi-precious stone), fake turquoise is a big problem in today’s market, so make sure you trust your source.
Peridot: Another volcanic rock, peridot is only green, unlike many other semi-precious stones that contain multiple colors, although the iron content can change it from a yellow-green to an olive or brown-green color. It is commonly set in gold.
Citrine: Often mistaken for yellow topaz, citrine tends to have a very bright and clear hue that can range from a mild yellow to a deep gold. Citrine can be successfully set in both silver and gold.
Amethyst (pictured): Amethyst is a type of quartz that boasts a regal purple hue ranging from a mild purple to a robust plum. It is commonly used in gold jewelry for a majestic look fit for royalty.
Topaz: Topaz is a clear stone that comes in many different hues, with natural blue being the rarest and most desirable. Other colors include yellow, yellow-brown, red, pink, green, and brown. This versatile stone can be set successfully in gold, silver, platinum, palladium, and virtually any other precious metal.
Semi-Precious Grading
The value of a semi-precious gemstone comes from its grade, and the grade is based primarily on the stone’s color. Experts analyze semi-precious gemstones and grade them according to the saturation, hue, tint, color grade, and color tone. Stones with a high saturation and low tint tend to be most valuable.
The value of certain gemstone hues can fluctuate according to buyer and jeweler trends. The color grade is based on the purity of the color, and the tone describes the lightness or darkness of the stone based on the amount of white or black mixed with the color.
Other Factors that Affect a Stone’s Value
Some semi-precious gemstones may have inconsistent color coverage, lowering the stone’s value. This is called zoning. Faint zoning is when the saturation differs insignificantly throughout the stone. Gradual zoning is when the color is weakened by blending, and visible zoning is when the stone has noticeable patches or layers. Foreign materials in the stone affect its clarity, and the brilliance is measured by how much light the stone reflects when it’s in a still position. An expert will also divide the stone’s height by its minimum width to determine its depth, with 60-80 percent depth being the standard ideal range.
Carolyn Clarke is a freelance writer and lover of all things related to gemstones. She currently resides in Spruce Pine, NC, where she enjoys prospecting for aquamarines, moonstones, and rubies in the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains. She also writes for a range of respected stone and jewelry providers like Estate Diamond Jewelry and Trumpet & Horn.
Besides diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds, all gemstones fall under the semi-precious category. In spite of what the name may suggest, semi-precious gemstones can be as valuable, or even more valuable than precious gemstones, depending on many different factors. Semi-precious gemstones are not as rare as precious gemstones, but certain desirable properties can drive the price of semi-precious gemstones skyward. This handy guide should help you to better understand the fascinating, shimmering world of semi-precious gemstones.
There are hundreds of semi-precious gemstones available on the market today, and some of them aren’t actually made out of stone! For example, pearl, amber, and coral are all naturally occurring substances that are still grouped under the ‘semi-precious’ umbrella term. Some of the most popular semi-precious gemstones include amethyst, turquoise, citrine, garnet, peridot, topaz, iolite, ametrine, and calcite (pictured). People often wear these striking stones in jewelry, but they can also be collected on their own just for the sake of enjoyment. Some people even believe that they have healing properties.
An Overview of a Few Popular Semi-Precious Gemstones
Turquoise: This volcanic stone ranges in color from light blue to a dark blue-green. It is commonly used to make Native American jewelry, and it is usually set in silver. According to Southwest Silver Gallery (a company that regularly deals with this semi-precious stone), fake turquoise is a big problem in today’s market, so make sure you trust your source.
Peridot: Another volcanic rock, peridot is only green, unlike many other semi-precious stones that contain multiple colors, although the iron content can change it from a yellow-green to an olive or brown-green color. It is commonly set in gold.
Citrine: Often mistaken for yellow topaz, citrine tends to have a very bright and clear hue that can range from a mild yellow to a deep gold. Citrine can be successfully set in both silver and gold.
Amethyst (pictured): Amethyst is a type of quartz that boasts a regal purple hue ranging from a mild purple to a robust plum. It is commonly used in gold jewelry for a majestic look fit for royalty.
Topaz: Topaz is a clear stone that comes in many different hues, with natural blue being the rarest and most desirable. Other colors include yellow, yellow-brown, red, pink, green, and brown. This versatile stone can be set successfully in gold, silver, platinum, palladium, and virtually any other precious metal.
Semi-Precious Grading
The value of a semi-precious gemstone comes from its grade, and the grade is based primarily on the stone’s color. Experts analyze semi-precious gemstones and grade them according to the saturation, hue, tint, color grade, and color tone. Stones with a high saturation and low tint tend to be most valuable.
The value of certain gemstone hues can fluctuate according to buyer and jeweler trends. The color grade is based on the purity of the color, and the tone describes the lightness or darkness of the stone based on the amount of white or black mixed with the color.
Other Factors that Affect a Stone’s Value
Some semi-precious gemstones may have inconsistent color coverage, lowering the stone’s value. This is called zoning. Faint zoning is when the saturation differs insignificantly throughout the stone. Gradual zoning is when the color is weakened by blending, and visible zoning is when the stone has noticeable patches or layers. Foreign materials in the stone affect its clarity, and the brilliance is measured by how much light the stone reflects when it’s in a still position. An expert will also divide the stone’s height by its minimum width to determine its depth, with 60-80 percent depth being the standard ideal range.
Carolyn Clarke is a freelance writer and lover of all things related to gemstones. She currently resides in Spruce Pine, NC, where she enjoys prospecting for aquamarines, moonstones, and rubies in the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains. She also writes for a range of respected stone and jewelry providers like Estate Diamond Jewelry and Trumpet & Horn.
The beauty of Indian ethnic couture lies in its versatility and elegance. When combined with the elements of contemporary trends, these outfits become superlative style statements for the modern women. The splendor of ethno-mod women collection makes it more desirable. Latest trends bring revolutionary transformations into the styling of traditional outfits to evolve their designs. If you are looking forward to reinvent your fashion wardrobe with stunning Indo western outfits, here are some ideas that you can incorporate.
Crop Tops With Long Lehenga Skirts:
You can prefer carrying long lehenga style skirts with chic crop tops. This combination of Indian wear with western designs is absolutely stylish. You can pick any design like embellished crop top, cape style top or collared top in vivid color combinations. Prefer them in rich fabrics and match these crop tops with long printed or plain lehenga skirts for an extra dash of style.
Dhoti Wraps with Stylish Tops:
This is another trendy version of crop tops carried with stylish dhoti pants. You can match a cape cropper with dhoti wrap skirt or an embellished top with pants in this style. It looks flamboyant and classy in both the ways.
Peplum Top with Aladdin Salwar:
If you are truly serious about a crossover fashion statement, this can be your best bet. You can wear peplum top in rich silk embellished with Indian hand works with an Aladdin Salwar in a matching shade. This is a perfect outfit for your chic parties where you wish to exude poise with a comfortable style.
Ethno-Mod Jumpsuit:
You can mix and match this style for a true fusion of entirely different couture hailing from two distinctive cultures. Wear a jumpsuit with a traditionally embellished jacket to spruce up your ethnic style quotient. You can also opt for this jacket in ethnic materials like bandhani for enhancing your looks tremendously. When merged with rich Indian textiles and crafts, such westernized styles can also get transformed into a completely new avatar.
Cold Shoulder Kurtis with Palazzo:
Kurtis are ethnic and palazzo adds a western touch to this outfit. You can also call it a sharara set having wide flared pants matched with an embellished cold shoulder kurti. This style looks best in summery colors and sparkling embellishments.
Cape Gowns:
If you are fond of cape styling, then this outfit is a perfect match for you. Cape gowns are resplendent and stylish. They are created from rich fabrics and intricately designed capes. They are minimalist yet stylish and versatile. You can carry these alluring gowns to your cocktail parties, red carpets or even corporate events due to its crossover styling.
Long Embellished Dress:
Give your wardrobe a trendy makeover with long dress in summery prints enhanced with traditional hand works. This style is perfect for enhancing the beauty of your fashionable summer collection with its cool style and ethnic appeal.
All these dresses are the perfect examples of Indo western fusion wear. You should carry them with confidence for making a lasting style statement. Also, remember to match them with befitting accessories to accentuate your style and elegance in these stunning outfits.
The beauty of Indian ethnic couture lies in its versatility and elegance. When combined with the elements of contemporary trends, these outfits become superlative style statements for the modern women. The splendor of ethno-mod women collection makes it more desirable. Latest trends bring revolutionary transformations into the styling of traditional outfits to evolve their designs. If you are looking forward to reinvent your fashion wardrobe with stunning Indo western outfits, here are some ideas that you can incorporate.
Crop Tops With Long Lehenga Skirts:
You can prefer carrying long lehenga style skirts with chic crop tops. This combination of Indian wear with western designs is absolutely stylish. You can pick any design like embellished crop top, cape style top or collared top in vivid color combinations. Prefer them in rich fabrics and match these crop tops with long printed or plain lehenga skirts for an extra dash of style.
Dhoti Wraps with Stylish Tops:
This is another trendy version of crop tops carried with stylish dhoti pants. You can match a cape cropper with dhoti wrap skirt or an embellished top with pants in this style. It looks flamboyant and classy in both the ways.
Peplum Top with Aladdin Salwar:
If you are truly serious about a crossover fashion statement, this can be your best bet. You can wear peplum top in rich silk embellished with Indian hand works with an Aladdin Salwar in a matching shade. This is a perfect outfit for your chic parties where you wish to exude poise with a comfortable style.
Ethno-Mod Jumpsuit:
You can mix and match this style for a true fusion of entirely different couture hailing from two distinctive cultures. Wear a jumpsuit with a traditionally embellished jacket to spruce up your ethnic style quotient. You can also opt for this jacket in ethnic materials like bandhani for enhancing your looks tremendously. When merged with rich Indian textiles and crafts, such westernized styles can also get transformed into a completely new avatar.
Cold Shoulder Kurtis with Palazzo:
Kurtis are ethnic and palazzo adds a western touch to this outfit. You can also call it a sharara set having wide flared pants matched with an embellished cold shoulder kurti. This style looks best in summery colors and sparkling embellishments.
Cape Gowns:
If you are fond of cape styling, then this outfit is a perfect match for you. Cape gowns are resplendent and stylish. They are created from rich fabrics and intricately designed capes. They are minimalist yet stylish and versatile. You can carry these alluring gowns to your cocktail parties, red carpets or even corporate events due to its crossover styling.
Long Embellished Dress:
Give your wardrobe a trendy makeover with long dress in summery prints enhanced with traditional hand works. This style is perfect for enhancing the beauty of your fashionable summer collection with its cool style and ethnic appeal.
All these dresses are the perfect examples of Indo western fusion wear. You should carry them with confidence for making a lasting style statement. Also, remember to match them with befitting accessories to accentuate your style and elegance in these stunning outfits.
Ladies, it’s that time of the year again. No, cheer up we are not talking about that time of the month. Okay, so I see the excitement brimming up. Seems you all have been waiting eagerly for it. And see here it is, the next few months are going to be fun. Guess, it is just the beginning of the no-pants season. That’s not all. These months will also let you discover colours and styles which you thought never existed- orange, yellow, pink, green and more. And the prints for an easy breezy look. Okay, so you are already wondering if your beloved jeans and tee can match the comfort and chic look of a throw-on-and-go outfit. Dresses will always be a favorite among women and believe me nothing ever can beat them. But repeating the same outfit on several counts will look boring and yawn worthy. Consider this as an excuse to shop all the Voguish and Latest dresses For Ladies from online fashion store and enjoy your no-pants look.
Here is a guide to make the most of your no-pants look, new combination, new dresses, new looks. Let’s check them out:
Prints Before you even start thinking about your next look, online fashion store will give you plenty of options to choose from and you can always work on your look when you have found one of your Favorite Fashion Dresses. Besides, prints are a great option if you are looking for something new. Wild and wacky or sober and delicate damask, wonder you knew everything about prints? There is a whole range of latest dresses for ladies with cute and exciting prints to look for. Take help of online fashion store and have your pick.
Colours, a hell lot of!
Pastels and light colour are cool no doubt. But wearing the latest dresses in solid colours is what is exciting. Solid coloured dresses are fun and easy to style. There is the classic little black dress. Apart from that there lots of colours and hues which have not been given their proper due. Wear your latest dresses in solid colours, add accessories and whoa you are ready to shine through your style. Browsing through online shopping store is always a good option to shop all the latest dresses.
The small details- sleeves, necklines, hem lengths and more
Most of the time, we don’t pay much attention to the small details while buying the latest dress. However, these small details are very important as they can transform the look of any simple dress, for instance, you can always play around the sleeves of a dress and find a completely different style. There are various types of sleeves design such as bell sleeves, sheer sleeves and much more. Also, you can vary the neckline and don a completely different look. Pick from off shoulder, one-shoulder, v-neck and much more. Look through online fashion store and find a wind collection of different styles. You can also try to vary the colour and the fabric along with the hem length and work on different looks. Maxi dresses look very chic and stylish and are also very comfortable.
Look like a 70s babe and be confident too
Okay, two words- fit and confidence is what matters when wearing dresses. So in order to make the most of your no pants days try to find some inspiration from your granny’s wardrobe. Work on the bohemian look, a hippie outfit or just stick to vintage; there is not any dearth of inspiration when it comes to wearing your favourite pair of latest. And what more could you ask for when online fashion stores are at your rescue twenty four seven. Find all the latest dressesfor women in the most flattering fit and showcase your personality with confidence.
Ladies, it’s that time of the year again. No, cheer up we are not talking about that time of the month. Okay, so I see the excitement brimming up. Seems you all have been waiting eagerly for it. And see here it is, the next few months are going to be fun. Guess, it is just the beginning of the no-pants season. That’s not all. These months will also let you discover colours and styles which you thought never existed- orange, yellow, pink, green and more. And the prints for an easy breezy look. Okay, so you are already wondering if your beloved jeans and tee can match the comfort and chic look of a throw-on-and-go outfit. Dresses will always be a favorite among women and believe me nothing ever can beat them. But repeating the same outfit on several counts will look boring and yawn worthy. Consider this as an excuse to shop all the Voguish and Latest dresses For Ladies from online fashion store and enjoy your no-pants look.
Here is a guide to make the most of your no-pants look, new combination, new dresses, new looks. Let’s check them out:
Prints Before you even start thinking about your next look, online fashion store will give you plenty of options to choose from and you can always work on your look when you have found one of your Favorite Fashion Dresses. Besides, prints are a great option if you are looking for something new. Wild and wacky or sober and delicate damask, wonder you knew everything about prints? There is a whole range of latest dresses for ladies with cute and exciting prints to look for. Take help of online fashion store and have your pick.
Colours, a hell lot of!
Pastels and light colour are cool no doubt. But wearing the latest dresses in solid colours is what is exciting. Solid coloured dresses are fun and easy to style. There is the classic little black dress. Apart from that there lots of colours and hues which have not been given their proper due. Wear your latest dresses in solid colours, add accessories and whoa you are ready to shine through your style. Browsing through online shopping store is always a good option to shop all the latest dresses.
The small details- sleeves, necklines, hem lengths and more
Most of the time, we don’t pay much attention to the small details while buying the latest dress. However, these small details are very important as they can transform the look of any simple dress, for instance, you can always play around the sleeves of a dress and find a completely different style. There are various types of sleeves design such as bell sleeves, sheer sleeves and much more. Also, you can vary the neckline and don a completely different look. Pick from off shoulder, one-shoulder, v-neck and much more. Look through online fashion store and find a wind collection of different styles. You can also try to vary the colour and the fabric along with the hem length and work on different looks. Maxi dresses look very chic and stylish and are also very comfortable.
Look like a 70s babe and be confident too
Okay, two words- fit and confidence is what matters when wearing dresses. So in order to make the most of your no pants days try to find some inspiration from your granny’s wardrobe. Work on the bohemian look, a hippie outfit or just stick to vintage; there is not any dearth of inspiration when it comes to wearing your favourite pair of latest. And what more could you ask for when online fashion stores are at your rescue twenty four seven. Find all the latest dressesfor women in the most flattering fit and showcase your personality with confidence.
Now when the wedding rush is all over, it’s high time you two went on your highly anticipated honeymoon! Packing your bags for this beautiful trip can be kind of stressful, particularly if you haven’t planned on every detail, however, you can surely be an ultimate babe no matter what.
Here are some tips on how to achieve it with almost no effort, so keep reading and enjoy!
Cute and Stylish for the Day
Since exotic destinations are a massive hit for honeymoon trips among the newly-weds, light clothes are more than required. A maxi dress is always a good choice, since it looks very stylish even in a casual outfit. Combine it with gladiator leather sandals, or with wedge espadrilles for a bold yet very romantic look.
Spice up your outfit with different accessories such as colourful jewellery – beaded necklaces and chunky bracelets, as well as large floppy hats that are perfect for sheltering your face and shoulders from heat of the midday sun. Fringed kimono is also an absolute must-have for an ultimate fashion statement. Super short dresses with interesting patterns will take your hubby’s breath away, and that is just the beginning – wait until he sees you in your brand new bikini.
Keep up with Trends in Women’s Swimwearand choose the one that will complement your curves in the best possible way. Even if you decide on spending your honeymoon somewhere in the mountains, a swimsuit is still a must – there is no better way to relax than having a private time in a hot tub or a Jacuzzi.
Sexy and Glamorous for the Night
When it comes to the night, it is reserved for something sexy and glamorous – after all, it is your honeymoon, and you will probably want to spice up your love life and take it to the new level. If this is true for you, you should definitely choose eye-catching lingerie to surprise your husband with the first night. Lace and satin are some of the most wanted fabrics when it comes to honeymoon underwear, and it is totally up to you which colour you will pick.
However, it is good to know that red is kind of overrated – instead, you can go forRose Quartz Or Serenity – Pantone’s colours of this year. Besides the lingerie, you will need gorgeous dresses for romantic dinners with your darling, so make sure that you have got enough of them in your suitcase. It is not important whether they are long or short – both of these can look very attractive and charming at the same time. Of course, high heels are absolutely obligatory, since they will enhance the sexy look even more.
Other Essentials
Besides lingerie for your first night, it is a good idea to bring another set for your last night – that will make it even more special and unforgettable. You can also prepareA Music Playlist of your favorite songs, just don’t forget a little speaker that can be plugged into your iPod and taken even to the beach. Besides that, having in mind that specific scents help establish beautiful memories, you can pack perfume that you wore at your wedding. It will remind both of you on the day you said your vows, which will create an unbreakable bond.
As you can see, achieving that effortless yet sexy look doesn’t have to be so difficult – all of the aforementioned items are basics that you probably already have in your wardrobe. Just spice them up with interesting accessories and provocative lingerie and you are good to go! Pack your bags and have fun at the honeymoon – it’s time to enjoy your love at its finest.
Author BIO:
Sophia Smith is Australian based fashion, beauty and lifestyle blogger. She could be described as fashion addict and life lover. She writes mostly in fashion and beauty related topics, mainly through blogs and articles. Sophia is regular contributor at High Style Life.
Now when the wedding rush is all over, it’s high time you two went on your highly anticipated honeymoon! Packing your bags for this beautiful trip can be kind of stressful, particularly if you haven’t planned on every detail, however, you can surely be an ultimate babe no matter what.
Here are some tips on how to achieve it with almost no effort, so keep reading and enjoy!
Cute and Stylish for the Day
Since exotic destinations are a massive hit for honeymoon trips among the newly-weds, light clothes are more than required. A maxi dress is always a good choice, since it looks very stylish even in a casual outfit. Combine it with gladiator leather sandals, or with wedge espadrilles for a bold yet very romantic look.
Spice up your outfit with different accessories such as colourful jewellery – beaded necklaces and chunky bracelets, as well as large floppy hats that are perfect for sheltering your face and shoulders from heat of the midday sun. Fringed kimono is also an absolute must-have for an ultimate fashion statement. Super short dresses with interesting patterns will take your hubby’s breath away, and that is just the beginning – wait until he sees you in your brand new bikini.
Keep up with Trends in Women’s Swimwearand choose the one that will complement your curves in the best possible way. Even if you decide on spending your honeymoon somewhere in the mountains, a swimsuit is still a must – there is no better way to relax than having a private time in a hot tub or a Jacuzzi.
Sexy and Glamorous for the Night
When it comes to the night, it is reserved for something sexy and glamorous – after all, it is your honeymoon, and you will probably want to spice up your love life and take it to the new level. If this is true for you, you should definitely choose eye-catching lingerie to surprise your husband with the first night. Lace and satin are some of the most wanted fabrics when it comes to honeymoon underwear, and it is totally up to you which colour you will pick.
However, it is good to know that red is kind of overrated – instead, you can go forRose Quartz Or Serenity – Pantone’s colours of this year. Besides the lingerie, you will need gorgeous dresses for romantic dinners with your darling, so make sure that you have got enough of them in your suitcase. It is not important whether they are long or short – both of these can look very attractive and charming at the same time. Of course, high heels are absolutely obligatory, since they will enhance the sexy look even more.
Other Essentials
Besides lingerie for your first night, it is a good idea to bring another set for your last night – that will make it even more special and unforgettable. You can also prepareA Music Playlist of your favorite songs, just don’t forget a little speaker that can be plugged into your iPod and taken even to the beach. Besides that, having in mind that specific scents help establish beautiful memories, you can pack perfume that you wore at your wedding. It will remind both of you on the day you said your vows, which will create an unbreakable bond.
As you can see, achieving that effortless yet sexy look doesn’t have to be so difficult – all of the aforementioned items are basics that you probably already have in your wardrobe. Just spice them up with interesting accessories and provocative lingerie and you are good to go! Pack your bags and have fun at the honeymoon – it’s time to enjoy your love at its finest.
Author BIO:
Sophia Smith is Australian based fashion, beauty and lifestyle blogger. She could be described as fashion addict and life lover. She writes mostly in fashion and beauty related topics, mainly through blogs and articles. Sophia is regular contributor at High Style Life.
An Indian Wedding is an auspicious occasion and Indian brides looks ravishing in those ‘16 Shringar’ of hers. Indian weddings are considered religious, rather than a legal affair or a social responsibility. Traditional Indian Weddings are a multi-day process with various ceremonies like Haldi, Mehendi, sangeet. India is a land of rich cultures and that can be observed during these ceremonies. Every tradition, every ritual has a reason behind it, very few know the real fact, but most of us just enjoy the music, dance, Holi in one color ‘yellow’ and those beautiful red designs on our hands. Indian weddings are fun to watch and an honor to participate in.
With the changing times, the rituals also change, people have started to have an easy-peasy approach and do the ceremonies as per convenience. No matter how much the time changes, how people adjust the customs, but ‘vidaai’ is the most heartbreaking scene of these weddings. Even when you are not so close with the bride, but seeing a girl leaving her father’s house for forever gotta make you emotional and unintentionally those two drops of tears roll down your eyes.
Talking about Indian brides, it is said that Indian weddings are beautiful because Indian brides are beautiful. On the D-day, every bride on the face of the earth look stunning, but Indian brides draped in red have an X-factor that makes them stand out. This X-factor actually comes from the ‘SolahShringar’ which is a process of beautification of Indian brides. The lovely girls are adorned from head to toe with the jewelry and a pack of haldi is applied to enhance the natural glow of the skin. Let us know in detail about this 16 step process which does wonders and transforms the ‘daddy’s girl’ into a ‘perfect woman’.
It is now a pre-wedding ritual, where the beauty of bride’s hands and legs is enhanced with the mehndi designs. Mehndi is supposed to impart crimson maroon color, darker the color, more would be the love between the couples. This mehndi is believed to protect brides from evil eyes. Not only in weddings, mehndi is applied in India for every auspicious occasion like KarvaChauth, Diwali, Holi, Gangaur etc.
Step 2: Hair ornamentation
On the day of the wedding, bride’s hair is oiled properly and then washed with the herbs. These impart radiance to her hair and beautifies them. After drying, the hair is decorated with a string of flowers and other hair accessories. Some make a bun of their hair, while some brides go for long braid.
Step 3: The wedding dress
Indian weddings have the touch of ‘red’color in everything. The bride’s dress is also a red/maroon coloredlehenga. The red color symbolizes love, commitment, passion, inner strength, and bravery. Brides enter the new house, all draped in red which makes the transition easy.
Step 4: Maang tikka
It is a beautiful accessory that is worn on head in the middle of hair partition and extends to the forehead. It is not only beautiful but also a representation of the power of the soul. These are worn before marriage to help women gather power, wisdom, and strong will to take the charge of the house after marriage. It also signifies the bond between the bride and the groom.
A bindi is worn in between the eyebrows, which is in color coordination with the dress. Bindis are usually the symbol of being married, but nowadays unmarried girls also carry it gracefully. Bindi is supposed to ward off bad luck from the married life.
Step 6: Kajal
Indian beauties are incomplete without the kajal in their eyes. Kajal enhances their beautiful complexion and makes their eyes speak. Kajal not only looks attractive on Indian brides, it also strengthens their eyes. Again, since it is black, it is considered to protect the bride from evil.
Step 7: Nath
Nath means nose ring which is worn on the left nostril, with a chain that goes to the left ear. It symbolizes the married life. It is also the symbol of honor, financial power, and authority. Some people also believe that nose rings help in breathing. It is said that wearing nose rings makes the process of childbirth easy.
It is probably the most cherished bridal jewelry which makes each one of us to skip a beat. An astonishing neck piece is worn by the bride which is again color coordinated with the lehenga. It is the symbol of prosperity. During the marriage, groom put another beautiful necklace around her neck- Mangalsutra; which she wears daily.
No necklace is complete without earrings. Usually, Indian brides would wear Jhumkas. It is said that earning is a warding against the evil which enters the body through openings, it act as a seal against them. For married women, it is considered as a sign of beauty and wealth. By wearing earrings, she ensures mental, physical and financial well-being.
Step 10: Armlet
Yet another beautiful piece of jewelry from the Indian bride’s collection. It is worn on the upper arm, much like a band. It increases the beauty of the arm, not to say, and thus has become a fashion statement today. Digging deep we found out that wearing armlets is inspired by the ancient paintings, where both men and women used to wear silver armlets. We couldn’t find out the spiritual significance, but it would be appreciated if anyone know and comment below.
Bangles are mandatory for Indian brides, even if it was not, who does not like bangles? Red or green colored bangles signify married life. They represent a hope for long life and prosperity for the groom. They also represent luck, charm, and safety for married women.
Step 12: Hathphool
It is a hand jewelry which has a bracelet connected to four rings for fingers. They are worn on both the hands and covers back side of the palm. These hathphool were earlier made up of Kundan or mirror settings. There is an interesting reason behind their use. Earlier, Indian brides used to wear long veil called ‘Ghoonghat’ because of which they could not see their grooms. Wearing mirror hathphool allowed them to get the glimpse of their groom.
Step 13: Waistband
Even if it has no significance at all, and it is just for beauty, every Indian girl would wear it gladly. It is the most amazing piece of jewelry that enhances their curves and graceful shape of the female silhouette. It also keeps the wedding dress in place. It is a symbol of authority and after the wedding, the bride takes charge of the house and tug the keys of the house in it.
Step 14: Payal and Bichua
The anklet is usually made of silver and worn on the ankles, of course. It is a symbol of marriage and when the bride enters her new house wearing these silver anklets, it is considered that Goddess Lakshmi has entered in their house too. The sound that payal makes represents the new happiness and prosperity in the family.
Worn on the second toes of both the foot, Bichua signifies marital status. Unmarried girls are not allowed to wear them. They make a great fashion jewelry, but in Indian culture, they are considered to help in conceiving.
Step 15: Scent/ Itar
Every dress-up is incomplete without a nice fragrance at the end and Indian weddings are no different. Weddings are long rituals and itar helps a bride to smell good for such long hours.
Step 16: Sindoor
It is the most auspicious ornament that every Indian bride flaunts. It is red in color and worn in the hair partition. For the first time, the groom put sindoor on bride’s head during the wedding rituals, which she wears for the rest of her life, till her husband is alive. It is the symbol of the well-being of her husband.
SolahShringar is believed to be associated with the celestial cycle, 16 phases of the moon. It is also related with the Goddess Lakshmi, who when pleased, bestows the bride with wealth, beauty, prosperity and luck to start a new phase of the life. The Indian bride adorned in 16 shringar, enters a new house and brings along this prosperity and luck in it.
As mentioned earlier, time changes, tradition changes. Indian brides now have become more trendy and want to make special their D-day in their own way. The wedding lehengas have taken the variety of colors and are mostly inspired by the Bollywood movies. Some brides flaunt the ‘less is more’ look while some like the heavy traditional ‘Rani-haar’ look. Whether she is going with the minimalistic look or not, she looks breathtaking anyhow.
At last a message to all Indian brides to be- It’s your big day, but it does not define who you are. Do what you want to do, dress-up like you have always dreamt about. Be bold, be beautiful, experiment a little and be an inspiration for future brides. This one day do not think about others and do what makes you happy, because when you are happy…. girl, you are naturally beautiful!
Author’s Bio:
The author of this post is a passionate writer. She likes to be updated with the latest trends in the Rajsijewellery industry. She is fascinated by the Indian tradition and Indian jewellery. She likes learning and writing about the same. Indian weddings are the most inspirational part of Indian culture for her. Antique silver jewellery is her new profound love.
An Indian Wedding is an auspicious occasion and Indian brides looks ravishing in those ‘16 Shringar’ of hers. Indian weddings are considered religious, rather than a legal affair or a social responsibility. Traditional Indian Weddings are a multi-day process with various ceremonies like Haldi, Mehendi, sangeet. India is a land of rich cultures and that can be observed during these ceremonies. Every tradition, every ritual has a reason behind it, very few know the real fact, but most of us just enjoy the music, dance, Holi in one color ‘yellow’ and those beautiful red designs on our hands. Indian weddings are fun to watch and an honor to participate in.
With the changing times, the rituals also change, people have started to have an easy-peasy approach and do the ceremonies as per convenience. No matter how much the time changes, how people adjust the customs, but ‘vidaai’ is the most heartbreaking scene of these weddings. Even when you are not so close with the bride, but seeing a girl leaving her father’s house for forever gotta make you emotional and unintentionally those two drops of tears roll down your eyes.
Talking about Indian brides, it is said that Indian weddings are beautiful because Indian brides are beautiful. On the D-day, every bride on the face of the earth look stunning, but Indian brides draped in red have an X-factor that makes them stand out. This X-factor actually comes from the ‘SolahShringar’ which is a process of beautification of Indian brides. The lovely girls are adorned from head to toe with the jewelry and a pack of haldi is applied to enhance the natural glow of the skin. Let us know in detail about this 16 step process which does wonders and transforms the ‘daddy’s girl’ into a ‘perfect woman’.
It is now a pre-wedding ritual, where the beauty of bride’s hands and legs is enhanced with the mehndi designs. Mehndi is supposed to impart crimson maroon color, darker the color, more would be the love between the couples. This mehndi is believed to protect brides from evil eyes. Not only in weddings, mehndi is applied in India for every auspicious occasion like KarvaChauth, Diwali, Holi, Gangaur etc.
Step 2: Hair ornamentation
On the day of the wedding, bride’s hair is oiled properly and then washed with the herbs. These impart radiance to her hair and beautifies them. After drying, the hair is decorated with a string of flowers and other hair accessories. Some make a bun of their hair, while some brides go for long braid.
Step 3: The wedding dress
Indian weddings have the touch of ‘red’color in everything. The bride’s dress is also a red/maroon coloredlehenga. The red color symbolizes love, commitment, passion, inner strength, and bravery. Brides enter the new house, all draped in red which makes the transition easy.
Step 4: Maang tikka
It is a beautiful accessory that is worn on head in the middle of hair partition and extends to the forehead. It is not only beautiful but also a representation of the power of the soul. These are worn before marriage to help women gather power, wisdom, and strong will to take the charge of the house after marriage. It also signifies the bond between the bride and the groom.
A bindi is worn in between the eyebrows, which is in color coordination with the dress. Bindis are usually the symbol of being married, but nowadays unmarried girls also carry it gracefully. Bindi is supposed to ward off bad luck from the married life.
Step 6: Kajal
Indian beauties are incomplete without the kajal in their eyes. Kajal enhances their beautiful complexion and makes their eyes speak. Kajal not only looks attractive on Indian brides, it also strengthens their eyes. Again, since it is black, it is considered to protect the bride from evil.
Step 7: Nath
Nath means nose ring which is worn on the left nostril, with a chain that goes to the left ear. It symbolizes the married life. It is also the symbol of honor, financial power, and authority. Some people also believe that nose rings help in breathing. It is said that wearing nose rings makes the process of childbirth easy.
It is probably the most cherished bridal jewelry which makes each one of us to skip a beat. An astonishing neck piece is worn by the bride which is again color coordinated with the lehenga. It is the symbol of prosperity. During the marriage, groom put another beautiful necklace around her neck- Mangalsutra; which she wears daily.
No necklace is complete without earrings. Usually, Indian brides would wear Jhumkas. It is said that earning is a warding against the evil which enters the body through openings, it act as a seal against them. For married women, it is considered as a sign of beauty and wealth. By wearing earrings, she ensures mental, physical and financial well-being.
Step 10: Armlet
Yet another beautiful piece of jewelry from the Indian bride’s collection. It is worn on the upper arm, much like a band. It increases the beauty of the arm, not to say, and thus has become a fashion statement today. Digging deep we found out that wearing armlets is inspired by the ancient paintings, where both men and women used to wear silver armlets. We couldn’t find out the spiritual significance, but it would be appreciated if anyone know and comment below.
Bangles are mandatory for Indian brides, even if it was not, who does not like bangles? Red or green colored bangles signify married life. They represent a hope for long life and prosperity for the groom. They also represent luck, charm, and safety for married women.
Step 12: Hathphool
It is a hand jewelry which has a bracelet connected to four rings for fingers. They are worn on both the hands and covers back side of the palm. These hathphool were earlier made up of Kundan or mirror settings. There is an interesting reason behind their use. Earlier, Indian brides used to wear long veil called ‘Ghoonghat’ because of which they could not see their grooms. Wearing mirror hathphool allowed them to get the glimpse of their groom.
Step 13: Waistband
Even if it has no significance at all, and it is just for beauty, every Indian girl would wear it gladly. It is the most amazing piece of jewelry that enhances their curves and graceful shape of the female silhouette. It also keeps the wedding dress in place. It is a symbol of authority and after the wedding, the bride takes charge of the house and tug the keys of the house in it.
Step 14: Payal and Bichua
The anklet is usually made of silver and worn on the ankles, of course. It is a symbol of marriage and when the bride enters her new house wearing these silver anklets, it is considered that Goddess Lakshmi has entered in their house too. The sound that payal makes represents the new happiness and prosperity in the family.
Worn on the second toes of both the foot, Bichua signifies marital status. Unmarried girls are not allowed to wear them. They make a great fashion jewelry, but in Indian culture, they are considered to help in conceiving.
Step 15: Scent/ Itar
Every dress-up is incomplete without a nice fragrance at the end and Indian weddings are no different. Weddings are long rituals and itar helps a bride to smell good for such long hours.
Step 16: Sindoor
It is the most auspicious ornament that every Indian bride flaunts. It is red in color and worn in the hair partition. For the first time, the groom put sindoor on bride’s head during the wedding rituals, which she wears for the rest of her life, till her husband is alive. It is the symbol of the well-being of her husband.
SolahShringar is believed to be associated with the celestial cycle, 16 phases of the moon. It is also related with the Goddess Lakshmi, who when pleased, bestows the bride with wealth, beauty, prosperity and luck to start a new phase of the life. The Indian bride adorned in 16 shringar, enters a new house and brings along this prosperity and luck in it.
As mentioned earlier, time changes, tradition changes. Indian brides now have become more trendy and want to make special their D-day in their own way. The wedding lehengas have taken the variety of colors and are mostly inspired by the Bollywood movies. Some brides flaunt the ‘less is more’ look while some like the heavy traditional ‘Rani-haar’ look. Whether she is going with the minimalistic look or not, she looks breathtaking anyhow.
At last a message to all Indian brides to be- It’s your big day, but it does not define who you are. Do what you want to do, dress-up like you have always dreamt about. Be bold, be beautiful, experiment a little and be an inspiration for future brides. This one day do not think about others and do what makes you happy, because when you are happy…. girl, you are naturally beautiful!
Author’s Bio:
The author of this post is a passionate writer. She likes to be updated with the latest trends in the Rajsijewellery industry. She is fascinated by the Indian tradition and Indian jewellery. She likes learning and writing about the same. Indian weddings are the most inspirational part of Indian culture for her. Antique silver jewellery is her new profound love.
