Bangles are not just trinkets, they bring sophistication and character to any ensemble, be it formal or casual. With their delightful clinking sounds and ability to add charm to any outfit, bangles are a must-have piece of jewellery. Through this blog, we will understand the process of crafting bangles from scratch, shedding light on their journey from raw materials to wearable works of art.
The Basics of Gold as a Material
Gold has always been a popular choice for crafting bangles because of its malleable and lustrous nature. It is an ideal material for intricate designs, and its purity is measured in karats, with 24 karats being pure gold. However, pure gold is too soft to wear every day, so it is often mixed with other metals like copper, zinc, nickel, and silver to enhance its durability.
Source: Mia by Tanishq
Higher karat gold tends to have a richer, warmer colour, while lower karat may display a paler hue. Jewellers carefully balance these factors to create bangles that are not only visually stunning but also durable enough to withstand daily wear and tear.
Crafting Process of Gold Bangles
The crafting process of gold bangles is a detailed art. It involves numerous steps, starting with the selection of the gold alloy. Once the alloy is chosen, the metal is melted and poured into moulds, shaping the bangle into its initial form.
Next comes the important step of design. Whether it’s a traditional pattern or a modern, abstract design, artisans use a combination of traditional techniques and modern technology to create intricate details. Some bangles may also feature gemstones or enamel work, which adds an extra layer of complexity to the crafting process.
Source: Mia by Tanishq
After the design is finalised, the bangle goes through a sequence of polishing and finishing steps. It not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also ensures a smooth, comfortable fit on the wrist. The entire crafting process requires precision and skill, showcasing the mastery of the artisans behind each piece.
Durability and Maintenance
While gold is a durable material, the daily wear and tear on bangles can take a toll. The choice of gold alloy and the craftsmanship play a significant role in determining a bangle’s durability. Higher karat gold bangles are softer and more susceptible to scratches, while lower karats may be more resilient.
Source: Mia by Tanishq
Proper maintenance of gold bangles is important for preserving their longevity. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth helps remove dirt and oils that can dull the shine. Storing them in separate compartments or pouches prevents scratches, ensuring that each bangle remains as radiant as the day it was crafted.
Impact on Fashion and Trends
Bangles have always been a statement piece in fashion, and their impact transcends cultural and geographical boundaries. The choice of materials and designs reflects not only personal style but also broader fashion trends.
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in traditional and handcrafted jewellery, bringing attention to the intricate designs of gold bangles. Fashion influencers and designers are incorporating these classic pieces into contemporary styles, creating a seamless blend of the classic and the modern.
The versatility of gold bangles also contributes to their enduring popularity. Their adaptability makes them a staple in both formal and informal settings, ensuring that they remain relevant in ever-changing fashion landscapes.
Gilded Grace: The Everlasting Allure of Bangles
The art of bangle-making has undergone a significant transformation, evolving from traditional to modern patterns, driven by the forces of modernisation and fashion trends. While sustainable manufacturing processes have gained considerable traction lately. It is equally essential to preserve the age-old techniques employed in bangle-making to safeguard India’s cultural history.
By adopting a balanced blend of tradition and modernity, brands such as Mia by Tanishq offer an unstated commitment to the preservation of India’s cultural heritage through their collection of bangles.
Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/faqs/gold-faqs/purity-of-gold-difference-between-24k-22k-and-18k-gold/articleshow/60827424.cms?from=mdr
