What are the different stones used in indian imitation jewellery?

Correct me if I am wrong, but I firmly believe that no one has such intricate craftmanship and boldness jewellery better than Asians. When I see beautiful pieces of gold accessories, all I think of are Indian women. Note that I am not trying to be stereotypical! We will all agree that Paris is often considered the home of fashion, Venice, the hub of arts, china the land of manufacturing. This is not to say that other nations are not skilled at the following. Some have become more notable over a long period. Indians naturally have an elegant way of wearing their jewellery that leaves everyone swooning.

Some of the unique features of these Indian adornments are the precious stones usually attached to them. They come in varying colours, shapes, patterns, and types. One thing is common amongst them, their captivating appearance. These precious stones are often considered the heart of every jewellery. Let us take a look at some of these precious stones.

Kundan

Kudan is a type of native Indian accessory. The word Kundan means thoroughly purified gold. This piece of jewellery is produced by delicately placing well structured/formed uncut diamonds and colourful gemstones into a finely gold foil such that the metal is adequately isolated from the surrounding gems. This Indian jewellery piece has been in use as far back as the 3rd century B.C. Kudan jewellery is widely famed amongst the Rajasthan. 

Jadau

This jewellery is made by merely heating pure gold to the point of malleability. Lustrous gemstones are then studded into the malleable gold. What makes this process unique is the lack of any form of external adhesive in attaching the gems. The heat from the gold is allowed to do the gluing. After which it is allowed to cool slowly. Like Kudan, JUdau is also popularly used in Rajasthan. It is widely used in the modeling of necklaces, bangles, earrings, bracelets, etc.

Navratna

This particular Indian jewellery serves more than beautification purposes. It is believed to be a good luck charm; it establishes the wearer's welfare, safety, health, peace, and longevity. It comes with nine captivating gems (pearl, ruby, coral, emerald, diamond, cat's eye, sapphire, garnet, and topaz)—each stone serving a specific purpose. Navratna is a versatile piece; it is suitable for all kinds of Indian outfits.

Pachchikam

This piece of jewellery is quite similar to Kundan. They are both made using intricately stoned un-cut diamonds and other precious gems. This un-cut diamond is called Polkis. Although, on a more thorough inspection, their difference becomes noticeable as the Pachchikam bears a less refined and more delicate appearance. Another striking discrepancy is the use of a silver frame in pachchikam, whereas Kundan is often created using gold. The use of Ancient pachchikam jewellery was not restricted to Asia; it was also widely used by Europeans and believed to have originated from Europe. Due to the bulky nature of this jewellery, it is usually worn mostly during occasions and festivities. A significant advantage of this jewellery is its affordability when compared to other precious stones.

Along with the above there are many other stones used in traditional indian jewellery as the list goes on, however lets leave that for another day.