See more of Nirja Desai’s work at @kalakar on Instagram.
Ruth Bader Ginsburg is the second female justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, and known as Notorious R.B.G.! A fierce lady with a fashion statement in the court room. Ginsburg is known for accessories; her clip-on earrings, her lace collar and fishnet gloves. I thought it would be a good way to showcase different types of jhumkas/earrings of India through her. She would totally rock each one of them!
The first type is bell-shaped earrings from the state of Kerala. These jhumkas are usually made in pure gold.
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Here are a set of oxidized earrings usually worn in Gujarat and Rajasthan. They are famously worn during Navrati time in Gujarat. Oxidized jewelry is sterling silver jewelry that is exposed to oxygen to give it an antique look. Many times this jewelry is decorated with tiny mirrors.
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Here are some Kundan earrings. “Kundan is a traditional form of Indian gemstone jewelry involving a gem set with a gold foil between the stones and its mount, usually for elaborate necklaces. The method is believed to have originated in the royal courts of Rajasthan and Gujarat.” (Wikipedia)
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Nirja Desai is a graphics editor for Science Magazine. She is originally from India and now residing in Virginia. She has always been interested in art and science. Find her work at https://www.instagram.com/kalakar and nirjadesai.com.
