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Silver Nose Rings
The term nose ring typically refers to a stud or hoop worn in the nostril piercing. In different cultures worldwide, men and women have worn nose rings for centuries. Historians say the style originated approximately 4000 years ago in the Middle East. The traditional Mughal bridal accessory, the nose ring, found its way from the Middle East region to India. Gold and silver nose rings became essential bridal accessories. Since then, Indian brides have started to pierce either their left nostril to wear a phul (nostril stud) or a nath (nose ring). The meaning of silver jewellery lies in its ability to signify beauty, durability, and versatility. In India, the nose ring is recognised by its local name in different states. In Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Assam, and West Bengal, it is called a Nath or Nathni; in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka, it is called Mukkuthi; and in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, it is called Vanki. Today, brides wear different nose rings, ranging from a plain silver nose ring to a nose ring studded with precious stones and connected to a nose chain. Depending on the occasion, they may also opt for heavily embellished nose hoops or nose cuffs. In the African and Red Sea regions, there is archaeological evidence of nose piercings dating back centuries. Ethnic Berber and Beja tribes wore silver nose rings for aesthetic value, to perform rituals, to ward off evil spirits, and to establish cultural identity. They were even passed down through generations, symbolising blessings from the ancestors. The heirloom silver nose rings continue to be a part of the bridal trousseau. The history of silver jewellery reveals its presence everywhere, showcasing its timeless connection to tradition, culture, and personal expression. Later, around 1913, the much-admired silver nose ring travelled from the Middle East, the Indian subcontinent, and African regions to the Americas. The nose ring was first introduced to the West by the dramatic French actress and singer Emilie Marie Bouchaud, famously known by the stage name Polaire. During her American debut at the Palace Theatre in New York City on March 24, 1913, Polaire sported a left nostril piercing that caught everyone’s attention. But it was only in the 1960s, when hippies who travelled to India pierced their nostrils and came back with silver nose rings, that this jewellery item became popular in Europe and the United States. By the 1970s and 1980s, punk rockers and goths adopted nose piercing as a symbol of rebellion against conservative lifestyles. Today, the silver nose ring is recognised as a mainstream accessory globally. Silver nose rings are here to stay!
Diving into the Design
Though not as old or distinctly different as silver necklaces or earrings, there is some difference between traditional and modern silver nose rings. Whether a nath, a phul, or a septum clicker, the difference lies in the design style, motifs, cultural influences, and usage. While traditional silver nose rings are handcrafted and intricate and showcase fine filigree, their modern counterpart is minimalist and often abstract. Modern silver nose ring designs are machine-made and may incorporate cubic zirconia, moissanite, enamel, or resin. Furthermore, the motifs used on silver nose rings also influence the design style. Traditional silver nose rings use motifs that depict gods and goddesses, flowers, leaves, vines, animals, birds, crescent moons, and mythical creatures, whereas modern nose rings use motifs like abstract petals, circles, triangles, squares, infinity signs, hearts, and arrows.
Similarly, there is a slight difference in the cultural influences of traditional and modern silver nose rings. While traditional silver nose rings may incorporate symbols like the Om, the cross, the lotus, the peacock, etc., modern nose rings are mostly without these symbols. Also, while traditional nose rings in many cultures still symbolise marital status, social status, self-identity, or an association with a particular community, modern Silver nose rings are worn for aesthetic purposes.
Besides the design, style and cultural influences, traditional and modern silver nose rings differ in usage. Most traditional nose rings are favourites among brides. They are also worn during wedding functions, Indian festivals, cultural events like folk dance performances, and while performing poojas. This is mainly because traditional silver nose rings are adorned with precious and semi-precious stones such as diamonds, rubies, emeralds, zircons, and pearls. On the other hand, modern silver nose rings can be worn every day as they are simple and subtle, comfortable, and even available in non-piercing types.
While these differences will continue to exist between traditional and modern silver nose rings, there are also some common elements in both. Like other types of jewellery, silver nose rings have primary elements contributing to their appeal and popularity. For instance, all silver nose rings are made from pure silver (99.9% pure) or sterling silver (92.5% silver and 7.5% copper or alloy); whether contemporary or traditional, they are available in studs, rings, hoops, nostril screws, L-shaped, and clickers or press-on. Also, contemporary and traditional designs may interchangeably contain decorative elements like gemstones, engravings, enamelling, and finishes like polishing, plating, and oxidising.
Occasions
In the olden days, silver nose rings had cultural and religious significance, but in recent times, it has become a fashion statement. Today, the versatile silver nose ring is a strong contender vying for a place in jewellery collections. You can wear a traditional silver nose ring on special days like your engagement party, wedding ceremony, or anniversary. Silver nose rings with intricate designs hold symbolic meaning and often become a part of temple rituals, religious ceremonies and traditional celebrations. They are also worn at festivals like Diwali, Dussehra, or Eid to add a touch of ethnicity.
Several women like to wear their silver nose rings every day. Whether meeting friends for lunch or running errands, the silver nose ring never fails to make a statement. From celebrations to cultural events, silver nose rings embrace traditions. The nose ring acts as the perfect add-on, no matter what the occasion.
How to Style a Silver Nose Rings
When you want to pierce your nostrils and wear a nose ring, you must first know how to style a nose ring. Styling a silver nose ring involves considering the design of the nose ring along with the look you want to achieve.
Start by buying a silver nose ring to go with the shape of your face. For instance, if you have an oval face, get a round stud, or if you have a square face, soften the angles with a curved or circular nose ring. Likewise, if you have a heart-shaped face, choose small, delicate studs or hoops. Once you know what suits your face, consider the occasion because it does dictate the choice of the silver nose ring. The large and ornate traditional nose rings can be saved for special occasions like weddings and festivals, while smaller studs or hoops are perfect for daily casual wear. An oversized decorative silver nath with a chain, worn by the bride on her special day, amps up the bridal look. Silver nose rings and hoops look especially good with a saree or lehenga.
You can create an earthy boho-chic look, a sleek minimalist look, a rebellious edgy look, or a romantic classic look with a silver nose ring. To get a boho-chic look, choose a bold nose ring with tribal motifs. For a sleek minimalist look, opt for studs or nose rings with geometric shapes; for a rebellious edgy look, opt for bold asymmetrical shapes or a septum ring; and for a romantic classic look, opt for symmetrical hoops with hearts, paisleys, or cultural motifs.
And finally, don’t forget to coordinate your nose ring with other jewellery. For instance, if you are wearing a gold-plated diamond nose ring, match it with earrings or a necklace in a similar finish. On the other hand, if you are going for a silver theme, match your silver nose ring with other silver jewellery like earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings for a cohesive look.
A nose ring is a small but powerful accessory, as it directly draws attention to your face. Since its early origins in the Middle East, it has migrated westward and extended its presence globally, never going out of style. In India, the silver nose ring will remain a large part of beauty ornamentation and our cultural heritage.