Silver and White Metal Jewellery

SILVER AND WHITE metal jewellery worn by the tribals is made by the craftsmen of the Soni community, who practice agriculture during the monsoons. Tribal men and women wear jewellery. Interestingly, the pieces are made using modern sanchas or dies that are bought from the market in Ranchi. The jewellery forms are traditional: the rigid torque made in hollow construction with chasing and die-stamped omponents, solid torques with a square section tapering to the end and chain links made from wire with die-pressed pendants. Anklets are cast by the lost wax method in silver and white metal. The craftsmen generate a wide range of forms from wire, sheet and cast techniques. Emporia and jewellery stores across the state stock these ornaments, and also take orders.