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Why Dance Jewelry Is Important

Friday, January 10, 2014

By Marissa Velazquez


Ornaments has been an integral part of many cultures from the beginning of time. Men wore it as a sign of wealth and power, women wore it to look more beautiful. The art of dance has also evolved along side jewelry and now they have become intertwined. The tradition of Dance jewelry has become a necessary part of some performances as well as adding aesthetics to the costumes. The dancers pay close attention to each piece and how it is worn.

Headpieces, armlets, necklaces, bangles and foot ornaments are painstakingly deliberated upon. For certain costumes and dances the ornaments are highly symbolic. You find this true in dances that have a religious overtone. The ornaments chosen by belly dancers on the other hand are use merely for show.

Traditional Belly Dancers adorn themselves with these ornaments that wow factor to their outfits. Gold and silver are used for a lot of the ornaments because it shines and clinks to add dramatic visual and sound effects to each movement.

Nowhere on earth does dancing ornaments take on greater importance like it does in India. Dancers study for years and their elaborate headpieces are only the beginning, they wear beautiful necklaces, anklets and more. These pieces are crafted from precious metals and stones. The artisans use emeralds, diamonds, pearls and sapphires, rubies to create stunning pieces. The seasoned professional dancers will only buy from the best craftsmen available.

When shopping in a shop there will be many types of ornaments but not all can be incorporated into costumes, dancing ones are specific. Classical dancers wear what has come to be known as temple jewelry. Depending on their experience level you will see them mostly in authentic pieces, juniors and students use the imitations since it is less expensive. Real gems and metals can be heavy and this is one problem with wearing authentic pieces.. The ornament is not used to cover up the dance since their bodies are meant to be seen.

In South India the this accessory is made mostly of gold adorned with a multitude of gems. The tradition is to make the ornament from pure gold, it is said that gold promotes well-being.

You will find that the Odissi use a few pieces that are only found in their style of dance. These ornaments are not used to hide the human form, since the body has to be the focal point. Whether in Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi or Kathak, this ornament has a special significance for dancers.

Dance jewelry has a long history in the Indian culture. As a matter of fact Indian women, whether rich or poor, will be seen wearing at least one piece of ornament on a daily basis. This accessory is used for many special occasions, from births to deaths, there is a dance and a specific form of adornment required. While western cultures see only the use of jewelry to denote wealth and status, Indian dancers use it to help tell their stories and enhance the beauty of their performances.




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