The International Gemological Institute (IGI) now offers a Traditional Jewellery Report that certifies stones set in the classic styles and designs of Indian jadau jewellery thus helping discerning buyers to validate genuine jadau jewellery and differentiate between original polki creations (crafted using uncut diamonds) and glass rendered designs.

The certification will not only provide support to retailers in the Indian market, but also contribute towards the entry of Indian traditional designs on the global front, IGI has said.

The term ‘Jadau’ primarily refers to the technique used to create traditional designs; Polki and Kundan jewellery are the types of Jadau.  The former uses uncut diamonds while the latter is essentially a glass stone. Polki jewellery was introduced in India by the Mughals while Kundan, as the name suggests, is a traditional Rajasthani style. Part of the quintessential Indian heritage wedding ensemble, the demand for Jadau has increased manifold over the past decade.

Explaining the need for such a report, IGI stated that while jadau jewellery is considered the epitome of traditional Indian craftsmanship, without a third party authentication, it was very difficult for consumers to distinguish between the two types – polki and kundan.

Recognizing this need amongst consumers, the lab conceptualised the ‘IGI Traditional Jewelry Report’.  Tehmasp Printer, Managing Director, IGI-India, said, “At IGI, we are happy to be pioneers in the traditional jewellery certification arena. With advanced standards in place, IGI hopes to contribute towards the entry of Indian traditional designs on the global front.”