Traditional Jewellery Guide for the Konkani Bride

Spread across the long western coastline of the Indian subcontinent, Konkanis are known for their rich culture, delicious food and eye-catching attires. With a majority of them living in states like Goa, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Gujarat, and the union territory of Daman and Diu, their culture has seen many changes over the years. But when it comes to bridal jewelry, the classic designs made out of gold and studded with precious gemstones still reign supreme.

So, if you’re a Konkani bride aiming to go for a traditional look on your big day, here’s a quick jewelry guide to help you make the best choices:

Goth
Sleek and delicate in design, Goth are bangles that are worn by Konkani women on a daily basis. However, for special occasions, bangles embossed with floral motifs are sported.

Tode
Thick and often equipped with an adjustable screw, Tode is a pair of heavy gold bangles with a spiral design that goes all around the circumference.

Pichodi
Crafted out of gold and adorned with a delicate crown-like design, the Pichodi is a must-have bridal ornament. And if you’re in a mood to indulge, then these stunning bangles also come studded with colorful gemstones that sparkle with every step.

Kashithali
Consisting of gold beads and beautifully polished coral beads along with black beads that alternate in an attractive pattern on a chain, the Kasithaali is the traditional Mangalorean mangalsutra that every konkani bride loves to covet.

Galsiri
A necklace with multiple coin lockets that are embossed with images of deities, the Galsiri is made out of gold and coral beads and comes with an adjustment necktie.

Pake
Made out of gold and pearls, these ear cuffs are adorned with signature Konkani motifs and are worn by Konkani women on several festive occasions.

Coin Bangles
Lightweight and bedecked with a delicate lace design, the coin bangles are a favorite amongst brides as it contains auspicious symbols of deities.

Vel
Designed to look like a chain, Vel are long earrings that are light in weight and can be hooked onto the hair for extra support.

Kaan
Forged out of solid gold and adorned with kundan or pearls, kaan are heavy ear cuffs that are donned by women on festive occasions.

Bajubandh/Vaki
An armlet worn on the upper arm, the Bajubandh comes in a variety of designs that range from ornate to minimal. However, it’s traditionally encrusted with gems and sports floral motifs.

Nathini
Similar in design to the nath that’s worn by the Maharashtrian brides, the Konkani nathini is studded with pearls and accentuated by vibrant pink stones.

Piddukachi Kankna
Embellished with beads that come in a variety of colors, PidduKku Kankna is a pair of light bangles that are paired with other bangles. The black beaded PidduKachi Kakna, however, remains a favorite amongst most Konkani women.

Payal
Favored by many Indian brides, the Goan bride’s anklets are made of silver or gold and are set in a fairly simple design. Traditionally, this ornament is also worn on a regular basis by Konkani women.

Vedi
Donned by women across Indian cultures, the vedi is a pair of silver toe rings that signify the woman’s marital status and are worn on a regular basis.

Patli
Fairly simple in design, patli are lightweight bangles crafted out of gold adorned with minimalistic design and are worn by women regularly as well as on festive occasions.

Ambada Aati
A bun pin that sits snugly on top of the bride’s bun and keeping it together, the Ambada Aati is usually fashioned out of gold and studded with pearls or colorful gems.

Konkani Mangalsutra
Usually donned by Konkani brides from coastal Karnataka, this mangalsutra is made of tiny black beads, gold and a locket flanked with bright coral stones.

Here’s a list of stores that are known for their Konkani jewelry designs:

SIA Jewellery
Ulhas Jewellers
Shobha Jewellers
TNS Jewellers
Antaraa Diamonds & Gold
Abharan Jewellers

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