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Jewellery Design History- Jewellery from the IndusValley Civilization

hamstech.com/blog/jewellery-design-history-jewellery-from-the-indus-valley-civilization

Nothing can ever match up to the jewellery and artefacts of the Indus Valley Civilization.

The prowess and efficiency with which every artisan crafts ornaments are worth the

mention. The jewellery worn by both men and women from the Indus Valley was

intricately, rich and sophisticated.

The use of precious metals such as gold, silver, copper, ivory and beads has been

beautifully used to make jewellery. Back then, people from this civilization had developed

an aesthetic sense for fine jewellery making and this till today stands proof.

Jewellery from the Indus Valley Civilization

It was the people from the Indus Valley Civilization who first explored the craft of

jewellery making.

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Any piece of jewellery for that matter is a work of art. The time, skill and precision with

which an ornament is crafted is truly admirable. Learning ancient jewellery in jewellery

design classes not only enhances your skills but also inspires to create better pieces.

Necklace

The necklace that dates back to 5000 years was excavated from Mohenjo-Daro. The

necklace has a pendant which is adorned with jade and agate beads. It also has a thick

gold wire that passes through each bead giving it a rich look.

Necklaces were strung with colourful beads and precious stones. It was one of the most

common jewellery piece worn.

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Amulet

Another interesting jewellery from this civilization is the amulet that was embossed with

swastika. Apart from the swastika, there have been other motifs such as lion, fish and the

‘poorna ghat’ was majorly used. Amulet was also adorned by both genders.

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Other Ornaments

Ornaments such as brooches, girdles, rings, bangles and head and ear ornaments. Tiny

beads were often used to decorate the hair of both men and women. Women strung the

beads through their long strands of hair. This enhanced their beauty on special occasions.

As a student if you decide to enrol in a jewellery design institute, you would get an

opportunity to learn about ancient jewellery. The Indus Valley Civilization is a good

example to take inspiration in gem and stone setting.

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Materials Used

Craftsmen from the Indus Valley Civilization used semi-precision materials such as

turquoise, agate, carnelian, feldspar, steatite, etc. Each piece was shaped and decorated

with dots and patterns. Apart from crafting, the craftsmen also worked on designs which

was worth to marvel.

Artisans and craftsmen from that era were very skilled. Today, there is no match to the

jewellery that was then created. Many modern day jewellery designers take inspiration

from ancient jewellery.

Ancient jewellery designing has always been remarkable and inspiring. Today, there

are very few ornaments from the Indus Valley Civilization that have either been recycled

or taken by the invaders.

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Considering how popular jewellery design has become, career opportunities to have

expanded. Apart from becoming a jewellery designer, students can take up careers as

accessory designer, jewellery consultant, fashion jewellery designer, etc.

Taking inspiration from the Indus Valley Civilization, you too can create amazing

jewellery pieces.