Today, married or not, young and trendy Indian women are getting their noses pierced for aesthetic purposes. They even own several designer nose pins and nose rings in their jewellery collection, which are fit for every occasion.

A typical traditional Kundan nose ring is intricately crafted. It contains precious stones handcrafted in gold or silver by a meticulous process named Kundan. In this type of Kundan Jewellery Making Process, each gemstone is set in or backed by gold foil. The Kundan nose ring, with its colourful Meenakari work, is a visual appeal treat. This traditional method practised by generations of Kundansaz is so unique that a Kundan nose ring is often passed down as an heirloom piece, embodying the family's traditions and values. 

The traditional nose ring has transformed from an ordinary ornament to a high fashion and highly treasured jewel. Today, Kundan nose rings are available in different styles and materials. They range from piercing to non-piercing types, from nose rings with chains to nose rings without chains, from real gold to imitation, and more. Kundan nose rings, like the Kundan necklaces or Kundan bangles, have distinct features or elements that distinguish them from other nose rings.

Firstly, all traditional nose rings are inspired by the art and architecture of the Mughal Empire. Handcrafted by skilled Karigaars, Kundansaz and Meenakars, every nose ring has intricate designs, exquisite craftsmanship and timeless cultural contribution. 

Kundan nose rings often feature an age-old type of setting called Kundan. In this process, a Kundansaz presses the gemstone in a thin framework of gold foil to keep the stone in place and allow light to enter from the top.

As Kundan was discovered in the Rajpurt court and established firmly in the early Mughal era, the motif designs reflect Rajput and Mughal art. A traditional Kundan nose ring design will contain floral motifs of lotus, tulips, poppies, iris and narcissus. They may even have motifs of peacocks and elephants. Paisley and dome shapes are also featured in the motifs of Kundan nose rings. 

The next distinguishing feature of a Kundan nose ring is its use of base material. Kundan nose rings are traditionally crafted from high-quality 24-karat gold or sometimes from silver. Kundansaz preferred to work with gold as it could be easily beaten into thin foils to hold the precious gemstones securely, without prongs. It was a precious metal and fit to craft jewellery for kings, queens and nobility. 

Another hallmark feature or distinguishing element of a Kundan nose ring is the use of uncut gemstones. Uncut diamonds were often used to craft Kundan nose rings. The other precious gemstones used were rubies, emeralds, and sapphires. Most Kundan nose rings have enamelling work called Meenakari. Traditional nose rings use auspicious green and red colours of enamel to enhance their beauty.

Though these common elements are typical of a Kundan nose ring, changing aesthetics and artistic innovations in the Kundan nose ring have come a long way. Today, Kundan nose rings are available in various motifs, metals, materials, styles, shapes, and sizes. For instance, the modern Kundan nose ring has contemporary and simple motifs and uses metals other than gold, such as silver, brass, copper or white metal. Also, Kundan nose rings now contain glass, white sapphire or synthetic stones instead of precious gemstones.

While Kundan nose rings add a classic touch to bridal jewellery, you can now flaunt them on various occasions with coordinated outfits. Deeply rooted in tradition or modern-day nose rings, they have evolved to accentuate any look. Depending on the size, weight and design intricacy of the Kundan nose ring, you can wear it for several occasions, from wedding functions to a festival or formal event. 

Kundan nose rings are perfect for completing a luxurious bridal look. Depending on the style, a bride can choose an oversized colourful Kundan nose ring with single or layered chains, a nose ring with pearl-encrusted chain, a minimal Kundan nath without a chain, or a vintage Kundan nose ring. A Kundan nose ring is the perfect bridal accessory to pair with a matching necklace, jhumkas and maang tikka. A Kundan nose ring is sure to complement your festive look. Its vibrant gemstones, gold metal and intricate design celebrate Indian culture. When dressing in festive attire, reach for a small Kundan nose ring to highlight your traditional gold jewellery.

The wheels of fashion have turned. The age-old Kundan nose ring now has a contemporary twist, making it the ideal piece to wear at any traditional function. With a simple Kundan nose stud, you can turn your ethnic look into a designer look.

Today, many young girls are wearing the Kundan nose ring to strike the right balance between expressing culture and looking sophisticated. A contemporary Kundan nose stud looks fabulous paired with a modern gown or Indo-Western outfit. 

Kundan nose rings are as versatile as the Kundan bracelet or choker. Styled correctly, they transcend every occasion and every style.