Traditional Bangles: Materials and Designs Through the Ages

Today’s blog will delve into the evolution of bangles designs with The Golden Cascade's exclusive collection.

Are traditional bangles still a part of today’s post-modern period?

Since ancient times, bangles have been highly valued and part of culture and religion. Indian people's fondness for bangles and jewelry has been mentioned in other foreign travelers' accounts, from Hiuen Tsang to Al Beruni.

The term bangri was used for bangles; across the states, bangles are called by different names. With the change of time, traditional bangle making and the materials used in the antique bangle styles took shape accordingly.

The Significance of Historical Bangle Craftsmanship

Bangles have been worn dearly by Indian women since the beginning days as a symbol of ‘Solah Shringar’ and represent her identity and culture. It is considered that bangles show her marital status, and without them, it is considered inauspicious.

So, women of all ages in India highly value the tradition and cultural significance behind traditional bangles. In Hindu culture, bangles are associated with the goddess Parvati and are considered sacred. Moreover, there is a color theory behind every color, and the historical bangle craftsmanship of bangles can be traced back to the Mohenjo-Daro civilization (2600 BC) some 5000 years ago.

Let’s better understand the evolution of bangles from ancient to modern times and how significant historical bangles are in modern times. Here is the color theory:

The Traditional Bangles Materials and Designs

Now that you know the history of bangles from the remains of the Mohenjo-Daro civilization. However, have you ever questioned the bangle materials used before these modern technologies and equipment emerged?

Well, the bangles of women, usually in the ancient days, are made from sea shells, stones, clay, wood, leather, bones, ivory, jade, agate, soil, lac, metal, etc. These traditional bangles of women are designs with motifs and intricate designs to show the wealth and status of the wearer.

So, bangles gradually represent hierarchy and possession of wealth, with each design showcasing social status and wealth.

Bangles Designs and Materials in the Medieval India

When we trace back to medieval India, most of the traditional bangles are highly valued for their intricate designs and the cultural significance they have. Most bangle materials then were gold, silver, glass, and ivory.

The elaborate engravings, designs, and gemstones embedded showcase the uniqueness and surmount of that particular era through these historical bangle craftsmanship. Wearing bangles signifies marital status, community, and religious significance. That gradually changes with time; nowadays, women opt for simple bangles made from glass for daily use, making them convenient even while they do their household chores.

With gold and silver bangles, the status and wealth of the person became prominent in the later medieval period as a symbol of affluence and royal patronage. The filigree work, which used Kundan (setting of gemstones) and Meenakari (enameling), became especially prominent during medieval times.

The silver works became more prominent during the Mughal times, and they are known for their fondness for silver jewelry. So, you can see the intricate and sophisticated craftsmanship and artistry of Mughal times from their silver bangle designs.

The Modern Influence on Traditional Bangle and Materials

With the change of era, cultural influences can also be observed in the 19th and 20th centuries. The heritage bangle designs become more intricate and complex with more advanced tools and technology. British colonial rule showed a shift in materials like enamel and the designs of traditional bangles.

Also, diamonds and other gemstones became more prominent among the wealthy and aristocratic families to show status and wealth. So, you can see how, in the modern era, the historical bangle craftsmanship has changed with the advancement of tools and equipment.

Another topic is whether culture and religion still play a crucial role in bangles. Nevertheless, it doesn’t mean that the significance of culture and value has been lost; instead, it is elevated, giving importance to what it holds and as a sign of fashion.

The Post-Modern Outlook of Traditional Bangles with The Golden Cascade

With modernization comes considerable changes in the evolution of bangles in their designs and the materials used to make them. Nowadays, women of all statuses can afford bangles that are more cheap and more durable than traditional bangles. It is because of the availability of other bangle materials like synthetic, plastic, and acrylic.

You can never shun the trends and their influence on fashion and jewelry. The changing times have made the traditional bangle-making change according to the tastes and preferences of the younger generation.

The changes can not only be seen in bangles but in shopping too. So, with various e-commerce platforms like The Golden Cascade and others, women can easily shop from the comfort of their own homes.

The Golden Cascade is one of the best online stores for traditional bangles and modern designs and materials. Offering intricate and antique bangle designs, the TGC has changed the evolution of bangles to preserve its heritage bangle designs through our exclusion bangles designs.

We have vast collections of bangles made from glass and metal, including velvet, crystal, American stones, and thread. Shop for the best traditional bangles made from glass to metal at an affordable price at TGC. If you want more varieties, check out our exclusive collections from our website!

Conclusion

To conclude, the evolution of bangles can be seen in traditional bangles to modern ones influenced by globalization, digitalization, and changes in fashion trends. The TGC is making these bangles available for women of all statuses in an affordable plus skin-friendly way by using materials like glasses and metals.

It is crucial to know that modernization means saving traditional bangle-making techniques and to ensure that our rich culture is preserved in the juggling and noise of this post-modern era, the TGC has come to the rescue. To continue the rich culture of historical bangle craftsmanship, TGC made it more sustainable and affordable for women to buy antique bangle styles at a cheaper rate. Bangles are not just a mere fashion but a true identity to the rich culture and heritage we Indians have today, and one must protect the tradition of bangle-making at all costs.

FAQs

1. What is the specialty of bangles in Indian culture?

In Indian culture, bangles hold a significant cultural and traditional value, symbolizing prosperity, happiness, and marital status for women. Women of all ages in India not only wore them during festivals, weddings, and other auspicious occasions but every day, enhancing their grace and elegance.

2. How many types of bangles are there?

There are numerous traditional bangles in Indian culture, including glass, gold, silver, lac, wooden, plastic, metal, and ivory. Each type has its unique design and cultural significance, often associated with specific regions and traditions.

3. Which hand is best for bangles?

In Indian tradition, women wear bangles on both hands to signify their marital status. However, the number and type of bangles worn can vary based on personal preference and cultural customs.

4. What is the tradition of bangles?

The tradition of wearing bangles dates back to the Mohenjo-Daro civilization terracotta and figurines. Bangles are considered auspicious, especially for married women, signifying prosperity and protection. However, different regions have unique traditions, with specific bangles symbolizing different stages of life and social status.

5. What is the scientific reason behind bangles?

Scientifically, wearing bangles is believed to enhance blood circulation and energy flow in the body. Even the circular design of the traditional bangles helps to maintain the body's electromagnetic balance, and the friction of bangles against the wrist stimulates acupuncture points, promoting overall health and well-being.

Also Read:

10 Benefits of Wearing Glass Bangles

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