Ancient craftsmanship, attention to detail and classic design, jadau, kundan and polki jewellery have been a firm favourite for erstwhile princesses and brides today. But heritage pieces crafted using 22-carat gold can cost quite a penny. To make statement trinkets impactful and affordable, Shalini Gupta Patel founded Red Dot Jewels, a UK-based semi-precious jewellery brand offering bespoke, handmade India-inspired silver pieces. “When I got married in 2006, I realised that the price of gold had really shot up, and there has only been an increase since then. Indians have a strong relationship with gold, but I felt that silver can be the best alternative to create show-stopping pieces. So, I started Red Dot Jewels in 2011 to ensure British-Asian brides to have access to the best semi-precious jewellery India had to offer,” Gupta Patel shares. Red Dot Jewels has been in tide with the times by bringing to life timeless designs created with a universal appeal.
THE BESTSELLERS
Red Dot Jewels has an array of options, including earrings like chaandbalis, chandelier and jhumkas; maang tikkas; hand-gear like rings, bangles and haathphools; necklaces like chokers and haars and sets made from jadau to crystals. “We are renowned for our bridal range that best complements the latest Indian wedding couture,” Shalini Gupta Patel discloses. That said, every accessory boasts a design that’s not only meant for traditional looks, but also for contemporary wear—think a multi-layered jadau piece styled with a strapless black gown.
“Our Kundan, Polki and Jadau ranges have been a part of our collections since the start. The rani haars and long necklaces can easily be paired with a Kanjeevaram sari as well as a lehenga.” But the aim of Red Dot Jewels is to value trends as much as traditions. “Our prêt collections are designed for pre-wedding functions and wedding guests. We also love to experiment with different styles of stones, especially coloured gemstones. For our recent Polki range, we used polished moissanite which gives an amazing sparkle to the jewellery. The Mother of Pearl Collection has pieces like lariats, chokers and earrings crafted in sterling silver and 22-carat gold plating. Sonam Kapoor Ahuja wore jewellery from this collection for Khush Wedding magazine’s 2017 cover. Amidst lockdown, we created Pearl, Enamel and everyday work or party wear pieces that can be purchased online and in-store,” Shalini Gupta Patel adds.
PRACTICAL ADVICE
With time, semi-precious jewellery is subjected to tarnishing and discolouration. Storing and caring for your bridal semi-precious jewellery is key to extend its longevity, Shalini Gupta Patel explains. To ensure your pieces stand these perils, she shares a list of Dos and Donts.
• Do make sure you’re buying from a reputable jeweller who has experience with manufacturing semi-precious pieces.
• Do ensure your jewellery is hallmarked if you’re buying sterling silver.
• Do ensure your jewellery is nickel-free to avoid nasty surprises on your wedding day.
• Do build a good rapport with your stylist—every Red Dot Jewels bride is styled by our in-house stylists to guide them.
• Do give your jewels a good wipe with a clean cloth if there’s sweat or make-up, after wearing it.
• Do read Red Dot Jewels care advice and store them in the display boxes provided.
• Don’t purchase semi-precious jewellery for resale purpose; buy them for its beauty.
• Don’t expose your semi-precious pieces to moisture, perfumes or chemicals. I suggest clear plastic boxes for storage as the metals will not react with anything.
• Don’t store earrings in a pouch—carry them in boxes, preferably padded or with bubble wrap.
THE TRENDS
Speaking of semi-precious jewellery trends, Shalini Gupta Patel reveals, “Beading done with jade green and aqua blue stones will be all the rage in 2021. Instead of wearing deep toned stones, pick pastel shades such as light greens and soft pinks to complement your red lehenga. Traditional kundan and gold plated pieces will always be on trend.”
THE STYLING
Bridal styling, in-person and virtual, has always been part of Red Dot Jewels experience. “It’s the best way to customise the pieces,” Shalini Gupta Patel adds. Her personal recommendations: “For mehndi, go for fun, bright jewellery. Our Dori collection has been a hit as it is created in colourful threads. We also have a stunning Marigold collection that has big coloured gemstones. Playful hand pieces, head pieces and accessories are a must. Do a heritage look for your wedding. My favourites are traditional kundan, jadau or polki pieces such as heavy choker and necklace looks or a heavy necklace and long haar. For our South Indian brides, we always go for gold plated necklaces and a long rani haar to complement their saris. Aim for Hollywood Glam look for the reception or sangeet with sparkling pieces from our Tara or Swarovski Collection made with crystals.”
To curate your bridal look
www.RedDotJewels.com
Instagram: @RedDotJewels
Facebook: /RedDotJewels
Photography: Soozana Pvan, John Rowley, Indy Sagoo, Candid Tales, Bater & Street, Sanjeev Kumar, Paul Weaver Photo, Zohiab Ali
As seen in Khush Wedding 28. Buy this issue here