Souvenirs of grace

DAMAYANTI, THE elegant lady with the beautiful baubles who dominated most of Raja Ravi Varma's paintings is back in the limelight.

The layers of necklaces, earrings and bangles that adorn her lissom body are the inspiration for the exhibition cum sale of jewellery at 95 Park Lane.

Whatever the design, the overwhelming opulence of antique jewellery provided by fine and elaborate craftsmanship and the myriad beauty of the stones has attracted many admirers.

Usha Corals of Mumbai is showcasing an array of temple jewellery, minakari jewellery, kundan jewellery, navaratna jewellery and antique gold and silver jewellery that take the form of bangles, necklaces, earrings, jhumkas, mang tikkas and waist belts. Temple jewellery characterised by its fine handwork comes with uncut rubies (pacchakallu), emeralds, uncut diamonds (param), pearls, sapphire and other precious stones with its foundation in gold. Antique jewellery has been aged though oxidising yellow gold to give it the old look. And the minakari jewellery on display has the best of Mughal traditions with motifs of flowers, vines and plants. The price range is between Rs. 150 and Rs. 5000.

If you want to look like you stepped out of the pages of an illustrated history book head for the exhibition that is open till January 8 between 10.30 a.m. and 8.30 p.m.

© Copyright 2000 - 2009 The Hindu