9 Differences Between Polki and Kundan Jewellery

In India, jewellery signifies tradition, style, and elegance. It is considered an important part of culture. It’s way more than an accessory. Among the many traditional Indian jewellery types, two timeless choices are Kundan and Polki. These styles have been cherished for centuries and have become symbols of royalty over time.

Whether you are a bride-to-be, a jewellery lover, or just looking to invest in good jewellery, it is important that you first understand the difference between Polki and Kundan jewellery. This guide provides complete information about these jewellery types.

What is Polki Jewellery?

Polki jewellery is one of the oldest and most luxurious forms of jewellery. It traces its origins back to the Mughal era. Polki is crafted using natural, uncut diamonds and then set in gold. They are preserved in their raw and rustic charm. They differ from modern diamonds as they are not enhanced in the lab and are not polished.

This is why they carry a distinct lustrous appearance. Hence, polki jewellery is a symbol of wealth and heritage as it carries high value and rarity. This jewellery is usually worn at weddings, royal ceremonies, and grand occasions.

Polki jewellery has evolved with modern trends, and Moissanite Polki is now a popular, affordable alternative. It offers the same sparkle as natural Polki diamonds while keeping the traditional charm.

Also Read: Jewels For a Picture-Perfect Destination Wedding

Key Features of Polki Jewellery

Uses uncut, natural diamonds, making each piece unique.
Known for its reflective, dangling look, it offers a vintage appeal.
Often paired with Meenakari (enamel work) on the reverse side, adding vibrant color contrasts.
More expensive due to the use of genuine diamonds and high-quality gold.

Why Choose Polki Jewellery?

Polki jewellery is an excellent option for brides and for someone looking for statement pieces that speak of luxury. Polki jewellery has natural, uncut diamonds that give it authentic and royal features that remain timeless. Unlike modern diamond jewellery, Polki carries the old charm that can be paired beautifully with traditional attire. These features make it the right choice for grand occasions.

What is Kundan Jewellery?

Kundan jewellery is known to be deeply rooted in Rajasthan’s rich culture. It is another type of stunning traditional jewellery form popular among jewellery lovers. Unlike Polki, Kundan does not use uncut diamonds. Instead, it carries glass or other semi-precious stones.

This jewellery is created by setting stones into a lac resin base using gold foils that help them remain intact in place. The detailing and vibrant color combinations in Kundan jewellery make it a popular choice for bridal and festive wear.

Key Features of Kundan Jewellery

Uses glass or semi-precious stones instead of diamonds, making it a more affordable alternative.
Crafted with a lac resin base that provides flexibility in design.
Features gold foiling for a refined, regal look.
Lightweight and designed for comfort, making it ideal for extended wear.
Commonly paired with Meenakari work for added elegance and artistic appeal.

Also Read: Perfect Jewellery Pieces for An Intimate Morning Wedding

Why Choose Kundan Jewellery?

If you appreciate intricate detailing in accessories and love vibrant touches, Kundan jewellery is an excellent choice. It is a luxury that comes reasonably priced and offers a grand, ornate appearance. Kundan jewellery pieces are perfect picks for weddings, festivals, and traditional events. This jewellery type perfectly matches lehengas, sarees, and even Indo-Western attire.

8 Key Differences Between Polki and Kundan Jewellery

The debate of polki vs kundan often comes up when choosing jewellery for weddings and festive occasions. Below are the key points highlighting the difference between Polki and Kundan jewellery.

1. Material Used

Polki jewellery is made with natural, uncut diamonds. Also known as polkis, these uncut diamonds are retained in their natural state. They are neither cut nor polished conventionally, which gives Polki a raw and authentic shine.

In Kundan jewellery, either glass stones or semi-precious stones are used. These stones can come in various colors. They are set in the base metal after they are cut into different shapes and polished.

2. Crafting Technique

The crafting technique of both jewellery differs. The base of Kundan jewellery is made from lac, a natural resin. Then, between thin layers of gold foil, stones are placed.

Polki jewellery involves carefully setting the raw, uncut diamonds into the jewellery base using traditional methods. The base of the jewellery is usually gold. The work requires highly skilled artisans.

Because of this, Polki jewellery is more expensive, heavier, and more intricate than Kundan jewellery.

3. Appearance and Shine

The appearance and shine of both polki and kundan jewellery are different. Polki jewellery has a subtle but rich shine. Since the diamonds used are uncut and unpolished, there is no glittering effect as seen in cut diamonds. Polki jewellery has a different vintage and regal charm.

Kundan jewellery shines brightly because of the use of polished glass stones. The pieces are ideal for festive gatherings and can add shine to an ensemble because of their exquisite light-reflecting qualities.

4. Cost and Affordability

Polki jewellery is definitely much more expensive than Kundan jewellery. This is because it is made using uncut natural diamonds and set in gold. This makes it a good investment because its value appreciates over time.

Kundan jewellery is considered a budget option because it uses glass stones and is set in various metals, often gold-pated. This makes it a good choice for people who want traditional jewellery that looks beautiful and is not too costly.

Also Read: Indian Bridal Jewelry Trends

5. Design and Versatility

Kundan jewellery is known for its colorful enamel work, delicate floral patterns, and intricate detailing. It is crafted for grand occasions and weddings due to its regal aesthetic and bold look.

It is more versatile and suitable for both traditional and contemporary occasions, and available in a variety of intricate designs. Kundan can be styled with both traditional and modern outfits.

Polki jewellery, however, is usually crafted as statement pieces. While Polki may not be ideal for everyday wear due to its weight and price, it offers unmatched elegance for weddings and luxury events.

6. Weight Difference

Kundan jewellery is much lighter than Polki jewellery because it uses glass stones and thin gold foils. Thus, it is comfortable to wear for long hours.

Polki jewellery is heavier because real uncut diamonds are used in the process, along with gold as the base. Polki jewellery looks royal and makes a statement, but it can’t be worn for long hours.

This makes Kundan easier to wear regularly, while Polki is reserved for the most special occasions.

7. Maintenance and Care

Both are types of jewellery, but they require different maintenance. Kundan jewellery is made of foil work and glass stones; thus, it needs extra attention and care. It can lose shine if exposed to water.

Polki jewellery requires special care and maintenance, but since it uses natural diamonds. It is heavier and expensive, so it should be stored safely. If cared for properly, both types of jewellery can maintain their beauty for years.

8. Durability

If exposed to moisture, the lac base of Kundan jewellery can be damaged. The glass stones can lose their polish over time and are more likely to chip. Kundan jewellery is relatively delicate.

Polki jewellery is made from real diamonds and solid gold. If maintained properly, it can last for generations.

9. Value and Heritage

Kundan jewellery is an affordable option. It does not hold any significant resale value. It is admired for its beauty but is not often treated as an investment.

Polki jewellery, however, holds far greater value since it uses natural, uncut diamonds. Families often pass down Polki sets as heirlooms because they not only carry emotional memories but also retain financial worth.

Polki or Kundan: Which is Better?

Choosing between Polki and Kundan jewellery depends on various factors, including budget, occasion and personal style preferences. Consider the points below to make the right choice:

If you want to invest in a luxurious piece that is worth passing on as an heirloom, Polki is the perfect choice for you. It has a lustrous appeal, and the use of uncut diamonds gives Polkki jewellery a prized possession. It can be passed through generations.
If you are looking for luxury pieces but on a budget, Kundan jewellery is the option to go for. It has intricate designs and vibrant colors that make Kundan pieces a perfect choice for festive occasions.
You can also mix both styles if you like to have a unique jewellery collection for different outfits and events. Many brides choose a Polki necklace with Kundan earrings for a charming yet balanced look.

Summing Up

Both Polki and Kundan jewellery are an important part of Indian traditions. Choosing between them depends on your style, budget, and occasion. Both have their own beauty and significance

Meermankaa offers a stunning collection of jewellery, including Polki necklace sets, silver necklace sets, earrings, Maang Tikkas, and elegant bangles, perfect for every special occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Polki better than Kundan?

Kundan is affordable and can be worn with traditional and modern outfits. It is lightweight but less valuable and long-lasting compared to Polki. Polki jewellery is expensive and heavier.

These statement pieces are worn in wedding ceremonies and festive occasions. Polki jewellery is generally considered better than Kundan in terms of value and durability because it uses natural, uncut diamonds set in solid gold

2. What is the main difference between kundan and polki jewellery?

In Kundan jewellery is made using lac resin, gold foil and glass stones are used. Whereas Polki jewellery is made using natural, uncut diamonds and a solid gold base. Thus, it has a high resale value.

3. What is the resale value of Kundan?

The resale value of Kundan jewellery is generally lower compared to gold or diamond jewellery. This is because Kundan uses glass stones and lac as a base, which do not retain intrinsic value.

4. Is Polki worth buying?

Polki jewellery is crafted with raw, uncut diamonds, giving each piece a unique charm and rich heritage. It is a timeless choice, ideal for bridal wear, heirloom collections, and special occasions, offering both elegance and lasting value.

Style