Decoding Jewellery: Your Smart Buying Guide
Ever felt overwhelmed by gold purity or the difference between Polki and Kundan? I’m Nidhi, and this is where we clear the confusion. Here is my guide to buying smart, not just shiny.
Welcome to 'Decoding Jewellery with Maniraj'! This is a series where I share the things no one tells you about jewellery. My goal is to make buying gold and diamonds simple and transparent for you.
Ever wondered about the difference between Polki, Kundan, and Meena? In this episode, I explain these beautiful Indian jewellery styles in just 30 seconds. Knowledge is power, especially when you're investing in a legacy piece.
A simple visual guide to tell Polki and Kundan jewellery apart. Polki uses real uncut diamonds, giving it a natural sparkle, while Kundan traditionally uses glass or gemstones set in gold foil.
Let's look closer. A Polki diamond is a real, raw diamond, which is why it has a higher value and a unique, natural shine. Kundan uses glass or other stones, which is a different craft altogether.
Did you know that some Polki jewellery pieces are heirlooms, older than our grandmothers? The craft uses ancient Jadau techniques, making each piece a part of history.
The magic of Polki jewellery is in its age and the stories it carries. Many pieces are passed down through generations, each one holding the sparkle of its time.
Have you heard of a diamond that looks bigger than it really is? Let me introduce you to a special cut that offers incredible value and a unique look.
It's called a Rose Cut diamond. Its dome-shaped top and flat base make it appear larger than a regular diamond of the same carat weight, giving you a bolder look.
Here's a great comparison. A 1-carat rose cut diamond can look almost as big as a 1.5-carat brilliant cut diamond. It's a smart choice for anyone who loves a vintage, understated look.
In this chat, my daughter and I discuss how Polki is no longer just for traditional occasions. We design modern Polki pieces that are versatile and loved by the younger generation for their Indo-western appeal.
About Decoding Jewellery: Your Smart Buying Guide
When you’re looking at Polki, the most common mistake is confusing it with glass-based Kundan. Real Polki uses raw, uncut diamonds set in gold, which means it should feel solid and substantial, not light or hollow. Always ask to see the net gold weight on the bill, not just the gross weight, so you know exactly how much gold you are paying for versus the lac or wax used in the setting.
Understanding the Real vs. The Replicas
My 'Decoding Jewellery' series started because I wanted to take the fear out of buying fine jewellery. You don't need a degree to know if you're getting a fair deal.
Polki vs. Kundan This is the biggest myth I see. Kundan uses glass or colored stones set in gold foil, which is beautiful but different in value from real Polki. Polki uses natural, uncut diamonds. When you pick up a Polki piece, you should feel the history and the weight of the gold. If it feels too light, question what is holding the stones in place.
The Rose Cut Advantage I love working with Rose Cut diamonds because they offer such incredible value. Because of their flat base and dome-shaped top, a 1-carat Rose Cut diamond often looks larger to the eye than a standard brilliant-cut diamond of the same weight. It gives you a bold, vintage look without the price tag of a massive modern-cut stone.
Transparency is My Policy Every piece I make, from minimalist daily-wear gold to heavy bridal Jadau, comes with a clear cost breakdown. You will never see 'hidden charges' at my counter.
- Net Weight Billing: I deduct the weight of the wax/lac in Polki sets so you only pay for the gold you are actually taking home.
- BIS Hallmarking: Every gold piece is hallmarked for purity.
- No Repeats: If you commission a design with me, it is yours. I do not replicate custom pieces for others.
Whether you are visiting our stores in Borivali or Matunga, or browsing from home, my goal is the same: I want you to walk away with a piece of jewellery that is an investment, not just an expense.
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