PAINTING A VIBGYOR

The magnetic energies of rainbows have enchanted us for ages. The incredible power of coloured precious stones simply transports our souls into peace and elation. English novelist George Eliot once said, "These gems have life in them: their colours speak, say what words fail". Jewellery with colours is a celebration of refined beauty and gentility with the fervour of feminism.

"Each day is a gem, different in kind, size and colour and yours to polish!" - Carolanne Reynolds

Historically, the first-ever-made jewellery was crafted for utilitarian purposes as these ornamental pieces were made to fasten dresses and robes. Gold, diamond and colourful precious stone brooches were used by the Romans to secure their drapes. The first evolution of jewellery happened when symbolism was accorded priority over functionality. Christian Cross and Jewish Star brooches typified their religious faiths.

Marriage between a couple started being represented by engagement rings. Ornaments pronouncing an individual's hierarchical status were worn in the form of enlarged colourful headgears and necklaces across various regions.

India incidentally commands the most extended history of jewellery making. It has cradled most of the world's largest precious stones, including monumental diamonds.

The distinguished Hope Diamond rumoured to be cursed, weighing 45.52 carats, originated in Kollur, India. In 1,500 BC, while most of the world was fascinated with gold, the Indus Valley Civilisation had already mastered the art of gem-setting.

Their people wore jewellery made of gold, shell, glass and metals embellished with beige, indigo and green stones. Since the human heart is constantly seeking novelty in terms of design, jewellery designers are taking inspiration from our environment to create stellar pieces that boost aesthetics as the hues of nature continue to dominate the jewellery industry tirelessly.

THE VIOLET