--- title: "Polki vs Kundan Jewellery: Expert Guide to Buying in Mumbai" description: "Confused between Polki and Kundan jewellery? Learn the real difference with Maniraj Solitaire. We help you choose authentic Polki sets with transparent pricing and BIS hallmarked gold." canonical: https://mytribe.in/maniraj_solitaire/jewellery-buying-consultation/the-art-of-indian-jewellery-polki-kundan-more last_updated: 2025-09-30 --- # Polki vs Kundan: Decoding Indian Jewellery Styles Tribe Verified · Handcrafted designs with BIS hallmarked gold. By [Maniraj Solitaire](https://mytribe.in/maniraj_solitaire) · Available online and at stores in Borivali West & Matunga East, Mumbai · ₹15K per project (estimate) Part of [Jewellery Buying Consultation](https://mytribe.in/maniraj_solitaire/jewellery-buying-consultation). [View full gallery](https://mytribe.in/maniraj_solitaire/jewellery-buying-consultation/gallery) They look similar, but the difference in material and value is huge. Let’s break down the artistry behind Polki and Kundan so you can pick what truly fits your style and budget. ## Photos and videos - ![At a glance, Polki and Kundan jewellery can look similar, but they are fundamentally different. This visual guide shows a Polki set with uncut diamonds and a Kundan set with glass or gemstones.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/3ee89508-c864-4d90-af4a-37908fc37471) - ![The key difference lies in the material. Polki uses real, uncut diamonds, giving it a natural shine and higher intrinsic value. Kundan, on the other hand, traditionally uses glass or semi-precious gemstones set in gold foil.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/bc135f05-f83b-4991-a466-21cd657b0414) - ![So, what exactly is Polki? Pronounced "poll-key," it refers to uncut diamonds that are shaped to follow their original rough form. They have an unfaceted, unpolished surface that gives them a raw, natural beauty.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/f821fc0e-64d7-41da-80cf-dccb84825de3) - ![Polki jewellery showcases the raw, natural look of uncut diamonds. This tradition blends ancient styles with modern appeal, allowing for detailed craftsmanship where each hand-selected stone shines.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/de4ba2a7-627c-45f8-84e9-e805dfdbef3c) - ![Polki is never perfect, and that's its true beauty. Because they are raw, uncut, and unpolished, Polki diamonds don't have the uniform look of brilliant-cut stones. This is exactly why they are so loved.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ac85a808-8cf7-4a94-a341-ed79d7aef78b) - ![Each Polki diamond retains its natural shape, edges, and inner lines. This means no two pieces are ever exactly the same. You get a natural glow and a one-of-a-kind look that polished diamonds can't match.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/74eb9bba-b10a-49f9-82ef-95a8ec02cdd2) - ![Why choose Polki? It's timeless and perfect for bridal wear, it has a high resale value due to the uncut diamonds and gold, and its versatile beauty complements both ethnic and Indo-Western outfits.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/3d5009ec-16d3-417c-adf9-844c1f77604a) - ![Did you know some Polki pieces are older than your grandmother? Many are over 100 years old, passed down as heirlooms. Each one carries history, stories, and generations of sparkle.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/8f1e9546-e8a7-44c4-b633-0515869b1b6b) - ![The magic of Polki jewellery lies in its age. Crafted using ancient Jadau techniques, these pieces are not just accessories; they are historical artifacts that connect us to the past.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/676ddb7a-f8c9-4fae-82b2-1d5f4fb1b43d) - ![Polki jewellery has deep historical roots in the Mughal era, from the 16th to 18th centuries. It was favored by royalty and the elite, often adorned with intricate goldwork and other precious gemstones.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c91d50f2-f60d-48bb-9ff1-6d8e709f4e40) - ![Polki has been loved by kings and queens for centuries. Here are some of the royal families who made this style of jewellery so famous and continue to wear it today.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ad8a4513-e18a-4763-94ad-2873a4fa191e) - ![The Mughals brought Polki to India. They loved using raw, uncut diamonds and detailed craftsmanship in their royal attire, establishing a legacy of opulence that continues to inspire.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/0416ce39-16ed-4ed3-bcb4-7d66f8be209c) - ![The Nizams of Hyderabad were renowned for their vast collections of Polki jewellery. Their pieces were often mixed with magnificent rubies and emeralds, creating some of the most spectacular treasures in Indian history.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e5e906af-e6ee-4fee-8098-dc81138ac384) - ![The Patiala Royals were famous for their bold jewellery choices. One of their Maharajas even commissioned a special, breathtaking Polki set from the legendary house of Cartier.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/0e84db84-c647-404b-82ec-388930e99ab1) - ![The Jaipur Royals are known for wearing grand, layered Polki sets during weddings and special events. Their jewellery is full of vibrant color and intricate designs, showcasing a rich cultural heritage.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/00571ed6-90a0-42e8-bae6-069dfdd9d027) - ![Even today, royal brides choose Polki for their weddings. It remains a powerful symbol of royalty, tradition, and timeless elegance, connecting modern celebrations to a majestic past.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a76f4175-1086-4dad-a394-6d07f4e91ec8) - ![Crafting Polki jewellery is a meticulous art. Each uncut diamond is hand-set in pure gold using the traditional Jadau technique, which involves lac, a natural resin, to hold the stones.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/88f260da-f0f3-42dc-aa0d-489d9a14d342) - ![The making of Polki involves minimal processing to maintain the raw, organic beauty of the diamonds. This gives the pieces a unique vintage aesthetic that is impossible to replicate with modern cuts.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/1d066996-a9d6-4036-9b7a-9b1216a39e04) - ![Polki diamonds are known for their soft, diffused sparkle. Unlike the sharp brilliance of cut diamonds, they offer a warm, gentle glow that is both understated and captivating.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/527f1c91-73e1-4de2-86ca-f01e73b5ccdc) - ![The true magic of Polki lies in the hands of the artisans. Their meticulous craftsmanship transforms raw, natural diamonds into exquisite treasures that tell a story of skill and tradition.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b08426a7-b179-4144-96ba-b04dc493b7c1) - ![Combining emeralds with Polki diamonds highlights the incredible skill and artistry of the craftsmen. The raw beauty of the uncut diamonds is perfectly complemented by the rich color of the emeralds.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/89fdc5c0-8019-4fd7-9a29-7715c90f9bdc) - ![Polki jewellery has a rich cultural heritage in Indian tradition. It is a staple for weddings and festive occasions, believed to bring prosperity and blessings.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/690dd9e8-5e11-4bb9-91b7-f7216899d3cf) - ![Emerald Polki necklaces are incredibly versatile. They can be paired with both traditional Indian outfits and modern Western wear, making them a valuable and flexible addition to any jewellery collection.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e52e7200-15d0-44fe-804f-04a94a41dbb9) - ![The term "Kangan" is often used for bangles in traditional Indian jewellery. More than just an accessory, a kangan symbolizes prosperity, love, and marital bliss, making it an essential piece for many women.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/8a3df78c-805a-48c8-a739-3433f1cda2ce) ## About The Art of Indian Jewellery: Polki, Kundan & More The biggest mix-up we see is between Polki and Kundan. Simply put, Polki uses real, uncut diamonds, while Kundan uses glass or semi-precious stones set in gold foil. Because Polki involves real diamonds, it naturally carries a higher resale value and creates a different kind of glow. When we work on these pieces, we make sure you understand exactly what you are paying for—from the diamond quality to the making charges. ### Understanding the Artistry Many people think Polki and Kundan are the same because they share that classic, regal aesthetic. However, the difference comes down to the stones: * **Polki:** We use raw, uncut diamonds. They are not polished to perfection like solitaire diamonds, which gives them a unique, natural look. Because they are real diamonds, they are an investment. * **Kundan:** This style traditionally uses glass or polished gemstones. It looks beautiful, but it serves a different purpose and budget than Polki. ### Why Design Matters At Maniraj Solitaire, we work with the traditional Jadau technique for our Polki pieces. This is an intricate process where stones are set in gold with lac. Whether you are looking for a heavy bridal set for a wedding or a smaller piece for festive wear, my goal is to guide you through the choice. ### Transparency in Your Purchase I believe you should never feel confused when buying jewellery. Here is how we make the process stress-free: * **Detailed Billing:** You get a clear breakdown of gold weight, making charges, and stone costs. No hidden numbers. * **Customization:** We don't believe in mass-producing. If you have a specific vision for a Polki set, we can create it from scratch, ensuring it fits your face shape and personal style. * **Hallmarking:** Every piece of gold used in our settings is BIS hallmarked. Whether you are looking to create a new heirloom or simply understand the value of the pieces you already own, I am here to help you decode the complexities of Indian jewellery. ## About Maniraj Solitaire Hi, I’m Nidhi. My mom started this journey, and I’m here to make sure you never feel confused by jewellery jargon again. Whether you want a custom Polki bridal set or want to upcycle your old family gold, I’m here to help you design it right. [See all of Maniraj Solitaire's services](https://mytribe.in/maniraj_solitaire) ## More from Jewellery Buying Consultation by Maniraj Solitaire - [Featured](https://mytribe.in/maniraj_solitaire/jewellery-buying-consultation/featured) - [Decoding Jewellery: Your A-Z Guide](https://mytribe.in/maniraj_solitaire/jewellery-buying-consultation/decoding-jewellery-your-a-z-guide) - [Gold Essentials: Purity, Price, and Care](https://mytribe.in/maniraj_solitaire/jewellery-buying-consultation/gold-essentials-purity-price-and-care) - [All About Diamonds: Cuts, Care, and Confidence](https://mytribe.in/maniraj_solitaire/jewellery-buying-consultation/all-about-diamonds-cuts-care-and-confidence) - [Smart Buying & Investment](https://mytribe.in/maniraj_solitaire/jewellery-buying-consultation/smart-buying-investment) - [Fun Facts & Jewellery Stories](https://mytribe.in/maniraj_solitaire/jewellery-buying-consultation/fun-facts-jewellery-stories) - [Meet Nidhi: The Story Behind Maniraj](https://mytribe.in/maniraj_solitaire/jewellery-buying-consultation/meet-nidhi-the-story-behind-maniraj) - [Additional Tips & Insights](https://mytribe.in/maniraj_solitaire/jewellery-buying-consultation/additional-tips-insights) ## More services by Maniraj Solitaire - [Ready-to-Wear Fine Jewellery](https://mytribe.in/maniraj_solitaire/ready-to-wear-fine-jewellery) - [Custom Jewelry Design](https://mytribe.in/maniraj_solitaire/custom-jewelry-design) - [Jewellery Remodelling & Redesign](https://mytribe.in/maniraj_solitaire/jewellery-remodelling-redesign) ## Similar work from other experts - [Kundan and Polki Jewellery Sets for Heritage Weddings](https://mytribe.in/bharatijewellers/traditional-bridal-jewellery/kundan-polki-classics) by Bharati Jewellers · Traditional & Bridal Jewellery · Visit store in Santacruz West, Mumbai - [Handcrafted Polki and Kundan Jewellery Designs](https://mytribe.in/tianshjewels/custom-bespoke-jewellery-design/the-art-of-polki-kundan) by Tiansh · Custom & Bespoke Jewellery Design · Studio in Malad West; serves clients across Mumbai - [Handcrafted Kundan & Polki Jewellery Collections](https://mytribe.in/krishnas_sweta/wholesale-b2b-jewellery-supply/kundan-polki-masterpieces) by Krishna Sweta · Wholesale & B2B Jewellery Supply · Visit store at Zaveri Bazaar, Mumbai; Ships globally - [Handcrafted Kundan, Polki & Meenakari Jewellery Sets](https://mytribe.in/kaushalya_art_jewellery_/retail-of-imitation-jewellery/kundan-polki-meenakari-sets) by Kaushalya Art Jewellery · Retail of Imitation Jewellery · Ships across India; Visit store in Malad East - [Timeless Kundan & Polki Bridal Jewellery Sets](https://mytribe.in/jewelishq/bridal-wedding-jewellery/the-royal-bride-timeless-kundan-polki) by Jewelishq · Bridal & Wedding Jewellery · Ships across India; Visit 3 stores in Mumbai - [Traditional & Heritage Gold Bridal Jewellery](https://mytribe.in/rianza.by.riddhi/bridal-jewellery-styling-curation/traditional-heritage-gold) by Rianza · Bridal Jewellery Styling & Curation · In-person consultations in Mumbai ## Book To book Maniraj Solitaire, message mytribe on WhatsApp: [Chat on WhatsApp](https://wa.me/916360004054?text=Hi%20Nidhi%2C%20I%20saw%20the%20Polki%20and%20Kundan%20jewellery%20collection.%20I%E2%80%99m%20interested%20in%20knowing%20more%20about%20custom%20designs.) 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