Traditional Himachali Bhumni Necklace (Silver-Plated)

The Bhumni is traditional Himachali jewellery with a job to do: women in Himachal Pradesh wear it to hold the Pattu, the woollen dress of the region, in place. It works as an ornament at the throat and as a garment fastening at the same time.

This piece is a metal alloy finished with silver plating. Three chain strands fall on either side of a central ornamental pendant, which ends in fine bead drops. The enamel work is done by hand in green, blue and soft pastel shades, on motifs drawn from Himalayan floral and folk design. Chains and bead elements are assembled by hand by Himalayan artisans. The necklace measures about 45 to 50 cm, with a pendant roughly 5 to 6 cm wide and 6 to 7 cm tall including the drops.

Worn with a Pattu in the older manner, and equally with sarees, suits, lehengas and Indo-western outfits at weddings, festivals and cultural ceremonies.