Destination: Jaipur, India
As a lover of all things gemstone and crystal related, I was psyched when I was given the opportunity to learn more about Jaipur, the gemstone capital of the world. Despite its global notoriety, I didn’t know much about Jaipur’s rise to the top of the gemstone world, so I decided to dive in and educate myself.
Founded in 1727 by Prince Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, Jaipur serves as the capital of Rajasthan in Northern India. A dedicated patron of the arts, the Prince drew the most adept artisans from all over India to craft jeweled sword hilts, pendants, and earrings. As the years rolled on, Jaipur’s craftsmen became known for their impeccable skills in cutting, polishing, and mounting stones.
Fast forward to modern-day Jaipur which has now secured itself as the go-to market for quality gemstones. Certain stones are associated with astrology and religion, two practices that are heavily observed in Northern Indian, hence their strong popularity. A few of the most prevalent gemstones are garnet, chalcedony, lapis lazuli and moonstone, each of which is believed to have its own unique properties and meanings.
Here at NOVICA, we work closely with Indian artisans, like Rituu Agarwal and Neeru Goel to provide our customers with the most authentic and genuine Indian gemstone jewelry. It’s time to take a trip to Jaipur, where all the magic happens, and see some of Rituu and Neeru’s masterpieces.
Gemstones in the Rough
Garnet
Found all over the world, this deep red gemstone is known for its enhancing creative energy. The utilization of garnets as adornments dates all the way back to the Bronze Age in former Czechoslovakia, and to Egypt more than five thousand years ago. Your birthday doesn’t have to be in January to rock awesome garnet pieces, like the bold ring or tennis bracelet below. Turn heads while reaping the spiritual benefits… win-win!
Healing benefits: Some feel it regenerates the body, stimulates desires and uplifts your attitude.
Chalcedony
One thing is for sure, we could swim in that aqua blue chalcedony ocean all day! Often seen in Indian jewelry, chalcedony is a nurturing stone that promotes goodwill. With all of the benefits that chalcedony has, wearing earrings, like the ones below, goes without saying. You’ll be a vision in blue!
Healing benefits: May absorb negative energy and bring the mind, body, emotions, and spirit into harmony.
Lapis Lazuli
Looking at lapis lazuli is reminiscent of gazing up at the starlit night sky… am I right? Clearly, I’m a sucker for this gemstone and I’m not the only one. This gemstone has been one of the most sought after stones in use since the beginning of mankind. According to historians, even the golden sarcophagus of King Tutankhamen was even richly inlaid with Lapis.
It comes as no surprise that lapis lazuli has been a jewelry staple for so many thousands of years- it’s stunning! For royal treatment, I suggest you dress in lapis jewels, like the earrings below. You will feel like a queen.
Healing benefits: Some believe this to be a stone of truth, which encourages honesty of the spirit. It may also bring calm and loving communication.
Moonstone
A member of the feldspar gemstone group, moonstone is known for its glow and iridescent beauty. Although it’s somewhat obvious given its name, this gem is said to have connections to the moon. The stone is sacred in India. It bears a special significance for lovers and is a traditional wedding gift. Whether used to craft gorgeous jewels, like the cuff bracelet and necklace below, or given loosely in a pouch, Moonstone is always striking.
Healing benefits: May be useful in treating insomnia, creating beneficial dreams, and balancing your natural energies.
My long fascination with crystals and gemstones certainly isn’t going anywhere after learning more about their roots. Thanks to amazing artisans, like Rituu Agarwal, Neeru Goel, and many others, we have the ability to get a taste of authentic Indian jewels. Beauty, grace, symbolism and healing benefits? Say no more- it’s time to explore more gemstone beauties from India!
What makes it even better is knowing that you are helping support many talented artisans while you enjoy your beautiful NOVICA jewelry.
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