Essentially a classic bhatia-ball har handcrafted to precision by one of our stalwart artisans, this svelte hip-chain is a less ostentatious but more graceful version of the South Indian vaddanam g...

Essentially a classic bhatia-ball har handcrafted to precision by one of our stalwart artisans, this svelte hip-chain is a less ostentatious but more graceful version of the South Indian vaddanam given the full Bengali karigari treatment. The ring-buti adjustable chain with a ball at one end extends the har but also makes it more versatile : a hip-chain that doubles up as a long necklace of such intense discipline that to wear it would be akin to displaying a Chain of Office so it's wise to be careful while picking the attire to wear it with. Of course, they'd both do magnificently with most flat-colour Kanjeevarams and Mysore crepes,etc. but the compatibility of the komor-bichha with the border needs to be judged so that neither is compromised.

It's been a long time since we've made a guinea-gold vaddanam. The last we did, more than five-six years ago, was a slimmer, round, v-chain weave that ended in a pair of small, naksha makar-mukhs fastened with a central 'S'. This uncomplicated design, because of its light-and-wide form, immaculate craftsmanship, and grand but fanfare-free presence, argues in favour of moderation as the ultimate luxury. Why shout and scream and make a big fuss when your whisper can be heard, loud and clear, in the four corners of the earth, and is listened to with attention and appreciation for its beauty, honesty and perspicuity.

The name's a mystery, even to us. We've never met the owner of the jewel ; the order was confirmed through the internet. Still, as a mark of respect, and as tradition would have it, and to acknowledge the courage with which she vested her trust in us, we've named the ornament 'Velluri Vaddanam'. When you wear it, those in the vicinity will not the noise hear but the silence.