Traditional Jewellery Guide for the Assamese Bride
Motifs such as musical instruments & floral details in an Assamese bride's jewellery trousseau reflects her unique culture.
Assam is famous for the majestic Brahmaputra river, tea, tribal heritage and amazing wildlife. An Assamese bride’s jewellery trousseau is a beautiful reflection of the Assamese ethos and aesthetics that have been passed down generations. With designs that contain motifs comprising flora, fauna, and even musical instruments that play a key role in Assamese culture, it’s safe to say that a bride from this state wears her jewels proudly along with her distinctive regional bridal ensemble – the mekhela chador which is typically made with handloom silk and cotton.
Dholbri:
A unique drum-shaped pendant studded with gemstones or adorned with meenakari work, the dholbri is a necklace design that is authentically unique to Assam and is attached with an adjustable silken chain.
Gamkharu:
A thick bangle/bracelet that is usually forged out of gold or silver, the gaam-kharu is a standout item that is worn by Assamese women on weddings as well as other festive occasions.
Photo Courtesy: Cupid Dreams Photography
Golpata:
An Assamese choker necklace crafted out of gold, the gal-pata boasts of intricate floral designs that sits flat against the base of the bride’s neck.
Photo Courtesy: Destination Assam and Devid Sarma Photography
Kerumoni:
A round gem-encrusted pendant with a hollow center, the kerumoni is an Assamese necklace with a colorful beaded necktie that can be adjusted for comfort.
Photo Courtesy: Aparajita and Mekhela
Jonbiri:
A necklace that boasts of an elegant crescent-shaped pendant, the Jonbiri also comes with a colorful beaded necktie that can be adjusted to one’s liking.
Photo Courtesy: Aparajita and Mekhela
Loka Paro:
With a pendant inspired by the shape of pigeons, this gold beaded necklace is another essential piece in the Assamese bride’s jewellery box.
Photo Courtesy: Destination Assam
Doog-dogi:
A necklace with a heart-shaped pendant in the center, the doog-dogi’s name remains a mystery, but it is a favorite amongst Assamese brides.
Photo Courtesy: Devid Sarma Pphotography and Prabin Medhi
Thuria:
A pair of statement stud earring with floral motifs that are accentuated by red minakari work, thuria was traditionally worn by elderly women, but now it is flaunted by young women too because of its unique design.
Photo Courtesy: Zangfai and Nest by Arpit Agarwal
Here’s a list of stores where you can find Assamese jewellery to suit your tastes:
Tansukhrai Ratanlal Jewellers
Manik Chand Nand Kishore Jewellers
L Gopal Jewellers
Zangfai
Town Jewellery
