Kolhapur
is a growing city situated in the southernmost part of Maharashtra.
Apart from being renowned as the 'seat' of Goddess Mahalaxmi, the city
is known for being home to artisans that make excellent jewelry. Infact,
it has an entirely different style of jewelry making, known as Kolhapur
jewelry. Though there is hardly any woman in this world who does not
like jewelry, it holds a special significance in the life of the
Maharashtrian women, especially those who are married.Just like the rest of the jewelry found in the state, Kolhapur jewellery also derives heavily from the style seen during the time of the Maratha and Peshwa dynasties. Some of the most famous ornaments made in the city are haar and malas, mohanmal, bormal, chaplahar, kolhapuri saaj, pohehar and putlihar. The names of these items have been based on their different and peculiar shapes. Then, there is the Kolhapur Saaj, a very special type of necklace that is made only in the city.
Thushi, a choker with closely bound tiny gold beads, is also counted amongst the popular Kolhapur jewelry items. Amongst the popular hand ornaments made in the city are Patlya (two broad bangles), Bangdya (four simple bangles) and Tode (two delicately carved thick bangles). The ornaments made in Kolhapur using pearls and red and white stones are Chinchpeti (choker), Tanmani (short necklace) and Nath (nose ring). Last, but not the least, is the bajuband (armlet) - a favorite amongst the women of Maharashtra.
