Quick Answer: This glossary defines 40+ Indian jewelry terms covering necklace styles, earring styles, headpieces, waist belts, armlets, anklets, nose rings, and the major jewelry-making techniques (kundan, polki, meenakari, jadau). Indian jewelry is a $60+ billion market (per the India Brand Equity Foundation, 2025) with deep regional and cultural variation â a "jhumka" in North India differs from a "jhumka" in South India, and "kundan" jewelry from Jaipur differs technically from "kundan" jewelry from Hyderabad. This glossary clarifies these distinctions and helps buyers understand what they are purchasing. Each term includes pronunciation, origin, definition, regional variations, and price ranges. Companion to our main Indian Fashion Glossary.
A close-fitting necklace that sits tight against the neck, typically 14-16 inches in length. Chokers are the most popular Indian bridal necklace style, worn alone or layered with longer rani-haars. Materials: kundan, polki, gold, or gold-tone metal with semi-precious stones. Price: $80 for costume kundan; $500-$5,000 for real gold and polki.
Literally "queen's necklace" â a long necklace that falls to the chest or below, typically 24-30 inches in length. The rani ha is worn layered with a choker for bridal and formal events. Origin: Mughal court jewelry, adopted by Rajput royalty and now standard North Indian bridal wear. Price: $200 for costume; $1,000-$15,000 for real gold and polki.
A generic term for a long necklace, often used interchangeably with rani ha. A "haar" can refer to any long necklace from a simple gold chain to an elaborate layered polki piece.