Jewellery means personal ornaments, such as necklaces, rings, or bracelets, that are typically made from or contain jewels and precious metal. To enhance one’s outfit and aften to flaunt one’s possessions, jewellery has become an intrinsic part of our wardrobe. In India there are some essentials, bangles and mangal sutra for a married woman, toe rings. Young girls have their ears pierced shortly after birth and wear small “baalis” or tiny studs.

Our Goddess Lakshmi signifies wealth often equated with gold and it is auspicious to wear a bit of gold but interestingly never on your foot as it is considered unlucky. Silver yes for toe rings and anklets but never gold.

With time, precious has given way to semi precious stones, metals, rocks, even art. Imagery borrowed from folklore are converted to jewellery items. It has become a personal statement. Bold has become beautiful with large pendants strung on coloured beads, danglers, cocktail rings, bracelets.

Jewellery enhances wardrobe choices and colours contrast the outfit. Very often a piece of jewellery makes a drab outfit oomphy. I personally feel that instead of overloading baubles, a very heavy neck-piece and earrings may be an overkill. Wearing the whole set works for a wedding but just a few pieces mix and matched looks elegant. One should not detract from the outfit. The appearance should have a focal point, be it a dress or jewellery.

Outfits and accessories are all about the person and her personality. Just a cocktail ring with no bangles and just ear studs create a personal statement that stands out.

Jewellery should be used to enhance, a differentiator not a pile up.