Traditional jewellery of Assamese women is one of India’s prides. The people of Assam have been wearing beautiful traditional ornaments for centuries for their beautification. 

The Assamese jewels in a relatively simple manner. The jewellery, however, carries cultures, traditions and aesthetics. It can be said the same for the traditions of Assamese Jewellery as well. One has the perfect understanding of how it is attached to the rich cultural background of Assam. This article gives a delicate description of the beauty, history and design of Assamese jewellery.

History of Traditional Assamese Jewelry

The use of Assamese jewellery has its basis from several centuries ago. Historically, during the rule of the Ahom dynasty, which began in 1228 and ended in 1826, the kings used to inspire the artists and craftsmen to prepare valuable ornaments for the rulers as well as for the people of the land. 

The designs that were used in the exercise were animal designs, bird designs, flower designs, and leaf designs. Gradually, these differentiated pieces of jewellery transformed into an integral ornament for the Assamese during festivals, marriages and other such occasions.

It was the Sonari artisans who were responsible for keeping this tradition alive all these years. On this occasion, they employed conventional, simple, and complex implements to create patterns. Nowadays, those methods are practised in many areas of Assam, and thus, the tradition is preserved.

Different Types of Assamese Jewellery

Traditional ornaments of Assamese women are available in different categories, which are totally different in style, and motifs carry different meanings. Here are some of the most popular types:

  1. Japi

japi jewellery

The Japi is a cone-shaped cap that is also typical of Assamese costume. Hence, the use of this famous hat, the Japi necklace, has beautiful designs and, at times, has a ruby or red stone finish.

  1. Gamkharu

Gamkharu jewellery

Gamkharu is a broad bangle commonly created from pure gold or silver. It has an effortless flair in its design and is embroidered and worn by women, mostly on occasions like weddings and Bihu festivities.

  1. Doog Doogi

Doog Doogi jewellery

It is a heart-shaped pendant that is usually worn with regular silk sarees. Primarily, it is very light in weight and can be easily worn; hence, it is preferred by Assamese women.

  1. Keru

Keru jewellery

Keru are a kind of Assamese traditional earrings with a crescent shape. These earrings are mostly complimented with necklace jewellery to complete the set as they are traditionally worn.

  1. Lokaparo

Lokaparo jewellery

Lokaparo earrings are crafted from two minor bird cuts, representing love with harmony. These are usually decorated with gemstones and are locally popular as classic Assamese ornaments.

  1. Thuriya

 

Thuriya is a primary earring design that is round-shaped. Classic looking and minimal design, constructed of gold material, it is suitable for almost any woman of different ages.

  1. Bana

Jack Bana necklaces resemble vine leaves with flowers because their designs are based on nature. It is made by hand to portray the skills of the workers.

  1. Jonbiri and Dholbiri

Jonbiri and Dholbiri

Jonbiri and Dholbiri are traditional ornaments worn by Assamese women, especially during the Bihu festival. Jonbiri looks like the moon’s crescent moon, while the other one, Dholbiri, is strikingly similar to dhol, the musical instrument. It is exciting to note that these pieces are compact, the detailing on them is very detailed, and the colour selected is very bright.

Why is Traditional Assamese Jewelry Unique?

  • Inspired by Nature: Patterns like birds, flowers and leaves can easily be noted on Assamese jewellery.
  • Rich Craftsmanship: Each item is made in the most personalized manner and is a totally original piece of art.
  • Cultural Connection: The jewellery is loaded with storylines and histories of the folktales of Assam, histories, and traditions as well.
  • Simplicity with Elegance: The importance is placed on the design, heaviness, and complexity of the ornaments for ceremonial occasions; there is no rigorous complexity in Assamese jewellery.

Assamese traditional jewelries is one of the most precious ornaments of Indian traditions. It was found to be very beautiful due to its complex patterns, use of natural themes and cultural values. From the crescent-like Jonbiri to the elegant Gamkharu, it is like reading a history of Assam, all presently confined within those structures.

In this way, by buying and selling jewellery, we revive the fascinating and knowledgeable soul of the Assamese country and reward a great job of skillful hands. If you come from Assam or if you have grown to appreciate the traditions of this region, getting hold of an item of traditional Assamese jewellery is always a good thing.