Famous for its breathtaking, jewel-toned colours, intricate details and royal aesthetic, Meenakari flourished in Jaipur Meenakari flourished in Jaipur after being introduced to India from Persia during the Mughal era. Today, the centuries-old craft enjoys global appeal, finding its way from royal heirlooms to contemporary high jewellery collections.
There was a time when Meenakari was viewed as the hidden artistry of Indian jewellery, its colourful enamel work often concealed on the reverse of necklaces and bangles, meant only for the wearer to admire. Currently, this centuries-old craft has moved decisively into the spotlight. Rich jewel-toned enamelling, intricate floral motifs and painstaking handwork are increasingly defining contemporary high jewellery collections, where heritage is becoming as desirable as diamonds. As luxury buyers seek pieces with provenance, craftsmanship and cultural significance, Meenakari is emerging as one of India’s most compelling design languages.
The renewed fascination received another high-profile endorsement when Sara Tendulkar attended her brother Arjun Tendulkar’s wedding in March 2026, wearing a heritage Meenakari necklace by designer Sunita Shekhawat. Estimated to be worth between INR 40 lakh and INR 60 lakh, the statement piece quickly reignited conversations around handcrafted enamel jewellery and its place in modern wardrobes.
Also Read: Regal and Rare: Why Polki Continues to Define Indian High Jewellery
More than a celebrity style moment, it reflected a wider shift in luxury consumption, where younger buyers are gravitating towards heirloom-inspired creations that celebrate Indian craftsmanship over fleeting trends. As heritage jewellery finds renewed relevance among a new generation of collectors, Meenakari is once again taking centre stage.
Heritage Finds New Voice
Derived from the Persian word mina, meaning heaven or the azure blue of the sky, Meenakari refers to the intricate art of decorating precious metals with vibrant coloured enamel. The technique arrived in India during the Mughal era before flourishing in the royal ateliers of Rajasthan, particularly Jaipur, where artisans perfected its delicate floral, bird and geometric motifs. Traditionally, the enamel work adorned the reverse of kundan and polki jewellery, making it an exquisite detail visible only to the wearer.
Also Read: Jaipur Watch Company’s Brides of Jaipur Collection Glows with Gemstone Grandeur
Today, designers are reversing that narrative by placing the colourful enamel front and centre, transforming it from a hidden embellishment into the defining aesthetic of contemporary high jewellery.
The revival is also being fuelled by changing definitions of luxury. Modern collectors are looking beyond diamonds and gemstones to invest in jewellery that carries craftsmanship, history and artistic value. Every Meenakari creation demands exceptional skill, with artisans applying layers of coloured enamel by hand before firing and polishing each piece multiple times to achieve its luminous finish.
Luxury jewellers are further reinterpreting the craft through detachable necklaces, lighter silhouettes and unconventional colour palettes, ensuring the centuries-old technique feels as relevant to destination weddings and cocktail soirées as it does to traditional celebrations.
Investment-Worthy Artistic Pieces
Leading Indian jewellery houses are embracing this resurgence through creations that span a broad luxury spectrum. At the pinnacle are bespoke heritage necklaces from Sunita Shekhawat, with elaborate Meenakari masterpiece, with prices beginning at around INR 50,000 for minimal, everyday jewels that could go up to several lakhs. The Jaipur-based maison is widely recognised for reviving traditional enamel craftsmanship through museum-worthy designs.
Meanwhile, Aurus offers the Saroj Polki Meenakari and Gold Choker Necklace for (approx.) INR 5.58 lakh, where blue and green Meenakari accents frame uncut polki diamonds and a sculpted peacock motif.
For collectors seeking heirloom craftsmanship at a relatively accessible price point, Meghante by Muthoot Pappachan offers handcrafted Meenakari necklaces starting from around INR 4.17 lakh, while Prism Jewels presents 23Kt gold polki and green enamel necklaces starting at (approx.) INR 97,000, introducing authentic Meenakari artistry to a wider audience of luxury buyers.
Fashion trends may come and go, but true craftsmanship endures. Meenakari’s return to the forefront of high jewellery reflects a broader shift towards pieces that celebrate artistry as much as opulence. In a market where individuality has become the ultimate luxury, the vibrant enamel tradition is proving that heritage can be both timeless and unmistakably modern.
