Oxidized Metal Jewellery
Posted by Sagarika Kar on
The antique look is back in accesories. Gone are the days when women chose to adorn themselves with pricey gold jewellery or shiny cheap look alikes. Today they go for the age old Matte Silver look of oxidized jewellery. Such jewellery was historically worn by certain nomadic tribes (called banjaras) in India to emphasize a women's beauty but today they are popular globally as a fashion accessory.However, we have experienced a transformation in the styling of the different pieces of jewellery. Whilst traditionally women preferred more bulkier heavier pieces, today the styles are more subtle, polished and the detailing more intricate. These jewellery pieces are crafted from an alloy of part silver and part other elements like copper, brass, steel etc. to create different looks and finishes. Many pure silver pieces are also treated with sulphur to create an oxidized look but typically the pure silver ornaments tend to be heavier and more expensive than the alloy alternatives.
The craftsmen, today, are seeking inspiration from ancient patterns of associated with the many not so known tribes across different regions of the world and cleverly coupling them with more contemporary ideas. To heavy neckpieces featuring replications of deities to motifs inspired from traditional temples, there is an array to choose from and usually without burning a hole in your pocket. These jewellery whether a pair of heavy earrings or a delicately designed bracelet or a uniquely styled pendant, are versatile enough to be combined with a range of different ensembles ranging from heavy oxidized jewellery sets with a traditional Indian outfit for a festive occasion to a casual ligter piece accentuating a more everyday regular outfit. And in any case, these accesories tend to elevate your look and make you stand out in the crowd. One such example of great look is a handwoven pure kanjeevaram silk saree with a temple border coupled with a intricate heavy matte oxidized set with a unique heavy pendant and matching earrings.