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The
setting of kundan jewellery is a very difficult process and can take upto
two months to complete one set. After the design is sketched on paper,the
goldsmith makes a khaka using thin sheets ot 23k gold. A khaka looks like
a thin box without a lid on top. The sides of a khaka are called a jeh.
The thinner the jeh the finer the quality of kundan produced. The piece
is then given to a chitaiwala or an engraver who carves intricate motifs
onto the back and sides of the khaka. Now it is ready to go to the meenakar
for enamelling,who transforms the khaka into a coloutful miniature paintings.
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Identifying
good workmanship
It is important for the customer to know how to differentiate between good and bad pieces of kundan. The design,proportion and the colour of the pieces should be harmonious and pleasing to the eye. Uncut diamonds should be evaluted by the stone's cut,colour,clarity and carat imperative for the buyer to examine them minutely. Genuine crystal set in kundan has a mellow,semi opaque appearance.Artifical stones generally made of glass are transparent and shine. There are a varity of precious and semi precious stones used in kundan. |
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