Three different types of enamelling techniques are used on Meenakari earrings. They are the Ek Rang Khula Meena, Panch Rang Meena and Gulabi Meena. Ek Rang Khula Meena uses a single-color enamel. Here, the Meenakar fills the engraved sections of the earrings with a single colour enamel such that the motif design gets highlighted with exposed gold lines. On the other hand, the Panch Rang Meena uses five colours of enamel - white, light blue, dark blue, green, and red. Lastly, the Gulabi Meena uses pink enamel made with Gulab or rose, which is peculiar to Varanasi. Traditional Meenakari earrings have motifs of phool-patti (flowers and foliage), peacocks, parrots, fish, and elephants engraved onto the surface.

 While intricate Meenakari work on gold continues to be the forte of Meenakars from Jaipur and Bikaner, Meenakars from Nathdwara, Bikaner, and Udaipur are famous for their silver Meenakari. Delhi and Banares are also known for beautiful Meenakari earrings. A Meenakar works with the goldsmith (babu), ghaaria (engraver), the chitteria (designer) and jadiya (setter). Though the designs and processes here haven’t changed much, meenakars are now experimenting with modern fusion earring designs that appeal to a larger audience. They even do enamelling on base metals other than gold, which demands lower prices. Further, meenakars use vilayati meena or enamel imported from Europe, which is substantially cheaper than the indigenously manufactured or desi enamel. The vilayati enamel is cheaper and can be fired multiple times while making the earrings. 

While Meenakari earrings highlight the seamless blend of traditional artistry with contemporary fashion trends, a few elements or features distinguish them from other earrings. Firstly, base metals like gold, silver, brass, and copper are used in Meenakari earrings. Though buyers preferred gold Meena earrings for their appearance and value, silver and copper base metals made them more accessible. Modern-day imitation Meenakari earrings use white metal as the base, making them more affordable. Secondly, all Meenakari earrings have some form of traditional Indian motifs such as paisleys, peacocks, elephants, flowers, and leaves. These hand-painted intricate motifs lend a cultural richness to the earrings.

Another element is the kind of enamel used on the base metal in Meenakari jewellery. The enamel colours consist of metal oxides mixed with a tint of finely powdered glass or the powder of various semi-precious and precious stones. Meenakars also use desi or vilayati enamels, depending on the fine work required on the earrings. Besides the kind of enamel used, another distinguishing feature is the colour of the enamel. Exquisite Meenakari earrings are available in one single colour or a mix of shades. Based on the colour, they are differentiated as Ek Rang Khula Meena, Panch Rang Meena and Gulabi Meena earrings.

Lastly, some Meenakari earrings also have Kundan settings, where precious or semi-precious gemstones are encrusted to enhance their beauty. Meenakari earrings can vary from exclusive heirloom pieces to casual and affordable types. The base metal, the kind of enamel used, the hours it takes to enamel, the durability, etc., define each pair of Meenakari earrings.

Meenakari earrings are a big part of the traditional wedding trousseau. Besides being an integral part of Rajasthani bridal jewellery, Meenakari earrings can also be worn on different occasions, to various places and with multiple outfits. Meena jhumkas, Meena chandeliers, Meena hoops, Meena chandbalis, and Meena studs are famous in India but have also left a mark on international fashion ramps. You can wear a beautiful pair of Meenakari earrings to weddings, festivals, celebrations, social events and formal events

Weddings are the perfect occasion to show off your heirloom Meenakari earrings. Brides look beautiful in traditional earrings, and so do guests. So, irrespective of whether you are wearing a pure silk saree, a zari lehenga choli, or a thread-embroidery salwar kameez, Meenakari earrings are just for you. Their traditional and modern design patterns make them perfect for festivals. So, whether it is Diwali or Christmas, Vishu or Onam, Meenakari earrings can be worn by women of all ages. Their timeless designs make them stand out.

If you are celebrating a birthday or anniversary, choose Meenakari earrings in similar or contrasting colours to complement your outfit. Different styles of Meenakari earrings, like Meena jhumkas, Meena chandeliers, Meena hoops and Meena chand balis, make you look good and embrace our ancient culture. Meenakari earrings are also a good choice for social events. Dress up in Meena earrings for a dance performance or music recital. Wear slightly smaller and lighter jhumkas or studs to social events for a traditional yet stylish look.

For formal events, opt for Meenakari earrings with more intricate designs since they look more sophisticated. Whether you are attending a graduation ceremony, a conference, or a golf tournament, style Meenakari earrings in line with the dress code for the formal event.