Select your jewellery to adorn your outfit

Although traditional jewellery will always be closed to a woman's heart, yet today's new age India cannot be defined as traditional. Jewellery is now more than displaying one's status symbol and is rather a medium to enhance one's personality.

Various coloured gemstones are now available to adorn the mix and match outfits of modern women. This trend suits both, the traditional wear and the crispy attire. However, this twist in the retro-style with contemporary fashion is garnished with precious stonework, kundan, enamel and conch shell work.

Fashion jewellery is more in demand
Fashion jewellery is rapidly making a mark amongst the young generation as today's working women want to make a style statement. Expensive jewellery is reserved for special occasions, thus, fashion jewellery works best with the daily wear.

Long chandelier earrings are the way out. Stubbies are getting to be increasingly more popular. Rubies and emeralds are already the all time favourite. Big studs are also making a comeback with champagne diamonds and rose cuts.  The contemporary jewellery in geometric shapes and chunky look is making headway into the world of fashion.

Summer season calls for being minimalistic, whether it is makeup or jewellery. Opt for pearls during summer. Jade and pink opals also look refreshing during the daytime. However, the selection of jewellery depends upon the occasion. If you are getting ready for a party, then probably a lovely pair of earrings with a cuff on your wrist will work well. Diamond earrings will be great for a cocktail. However, to bring out the best in a saree or a salwar kameez, opt for a pair of jhumkas. There is no better piece of jewellery to garnish beauty than a beautifully crafted pair of jhumkas.

Care of expensive jewellery
Most trinkets need little care. Clean them with a soft cloth and they are ready to dazzle. Diamond jewellery can be soaked in soap water; cleaned with a soft brush; rinsed and dried with a dryer.

However, jadau jewellery needs special care. Always keep it wrapped in a clean mul-mul cloth and then in a zip lock. Pearls also need to be wiped clean with a soft cloth every time these are worn. Always check the jewellery clasps and locks to see if these are in proper condition.

Visit the jeweller, if any jewellery needs attention. Do not try to repair the expensive jewellery at home. Always make sure to check for the purity certificate. Nowadays, most jewellers carry hallmarked jewellery. Ask for buyback guarantee and do not hesitate and feel free to ask questions regarding the jewellery.

(Reema is owner and jewellery designer of Tikamdas Motiram Jewellers, Mumbai)