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Dying Craft – Filigree

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filigree

 

 

Filigree, an ancient art of jewelry making, prevails in India since the time immemorial. Though there are many postulates about its origin and evolution in India, today Indian filigree jewelries have become the most-sought after by art lovers worldwide. Filigree jewelries produced in India are unique style in terms of style and aesthetics. Precision, technicality, patience and attention to minute details by artisans have gained a special place for their makes in the international market.

In India, the antique filigree work is widely known as Tarkashi. Twisted threads of gold or silver are used to make a motif, which then be stitched onto the base. Today, silver in predominantly used in filigree work, and the process of filigree jewelry making encompasses many technical stages. Firstly, pure silver is made into a fine thread, which resembles a coarse hair. In olden times, it is achieved by heating the silver and hammering it on a iron or steel anvil. Nowadays, artisans use a wire drawing machine to produce fine silver threads. Following this, two thin wires are heated and coiled on a rotating machine, after which they are flattened to form a single wire. This wire is bend to get different shapes as required.

Karimnagar in Andhra Pradesh and Cuttack in Orissa are well known for producing exquisite silverware and ornaments. To meet the changing needs of customers, craftsmen make decorative utility articles like jewelry boxes, trays, bowls, spoons, plates, cups, tumblers, vases, incense containers, showpieces, plates, photo frames and cigar boxes with pure silver. The intricate designs that portray the tradition and culture of the place, a scene from the epic Mahabharata, animals, birds, flowers, and temples are depicted to deliver an indigenous touch. Jewels are always adored by women, and they would love to own a piece a filigree work in their jewel box. Brooches, pendants, earrings, hairpins and ladies bags in exclusive designs would definitely be appealing to them. A perfumed contained with filigree work would be a great gifting idea, and the best mean to remember your trip to India forever.

Hemraj Jewellery Craft, Naya Sarak near SBI ATM, Cuttack, manufactures and exports gold and silver filigree jewelry and artifacts. In Karimnagar, Andhra Pradesh, Fine Axis India Pvt. Ltd. specialises in selling silver filigree handicrafts like corporate gifts, mementos, promotional gifts, wedding accessories, puja accessories, jewelry boxes, and other home decor products. Lepakshi Handicrafts Emporium, Kalanjali Arts & Crafts, Sheela’s Indian Handicrafts Specialists, Mahboob Bidri Works, and Crafts Museum Calcutta Emporium are the other places where you can find quality filigree work in Hyderabad. So when you visit India, drop into any of these shops to buy some awe-inspiring masterpieces.

 

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