The Eternal Legacy of Polki Diamonds: A Journey from Mughal Courts to Modern Brides
There’s something about Polki diamonds that feels alive — as though each uncut stone carries a whisper from the past. When you hold a piece of Polki jewellery, you’re not just holding an ornament; you’re holding a story that began centuries ago, in the opulent courts of the Mughal Empire.
Polki is not a recent trend. It’s one of the oldest forms of diamond jewellery in the world — a style that flourished under royal patronage, admired for its unpolished, natural beauty. In those times, the elite wore Polki as a symbol of wealth, divine power, and purity. The larger the Polki stone, the greater the prestige. The kings and queens of Rajasthan, the Mughal emperors, and even the royal brides of ancient India all shimmered under the soft glow of these raw, uncut diamonds.
What makes Polki so special is not just its history, but the artistry that brings it to life. Each piece is a labour of love — crafted entirely by hand, without the interference of machines. The process begins with a gold framework, filled with natural lac, into which uncut diamonds are carefully set using delicate foils. These foils reflect light, giving Polki its warm, vintage radiance. It’s not the icy sparkle of a modern-cut diamond; it’s deeper, softer — like candlelight in a royal palace.
Polki is often confused with Kundan jewellery, but the two are different. Kundan uses glass or stones, while Polki is made with real uncut diamonds. Each Polki stone is unique, irregular in shape, and often slightly tinted — and that’s where its beauty lies. In a world obsessed with perfection, Polki celebrates natural flaws. It’s the rawness that makes it regal.
Today, Polki has found its way into the modern bridal world with a completely fresh identity. Designers have reimagined the centuries-old craft for a new generation of brides who want heritage with a hint of minimalism. Lighter chokers, detachable earrings, and layered Polki necklaces are now worn at beach weddings and pastel-themed sangeets, proving that tradition never goes out of style — it simply evolves.
Bollywood too has played its part. Every time a bride walks down the aisle inspired by celebrity weddings, Polki quietly takes centre stage. From Deepika Padukone’s royal wedding sets to Anushka Sharma’s subtle layered necklaces, Polki has become synonymous with elegance that transcends trends.
For brides curating their trousseau, a Polki piece is more than an accessory — it’s a keepsake. Whether it’s a statement choker for the wedding day or delicate earrings for a post-wedding dinner, Polki fits every mood. It blends beautifully with Indian outfits like lehengas and sarees, yet can be styled effortlessly with Western gowns for cocktail nights. Pair it with pearls or emerald drops for an even richer effect.
Owning Polki also means learning how to care for it. Unlike cut diamonds, Polki pieces are more delicate and require gentle cleaning. Always store them in a soft, dry cloth and avoid exposure to perfume or moisture. When maintained with love, they last generations — often becoming heirlooms that mothers pass on to daughters with stories attached.
Every Polki jewel carries a trace of heritage — a connection to India’s royal artistry and cultural identity. It’s not just jewellery; it’s a bridge between the past and the present. For a modern bride, wearing Polki is like wearing history on her heart — raw, luminous, and eternally beautiful.