A Punjabi wedding has its own jewellery vocabulary — pieces that carry generations of meaning beyond the look. Some are worn during specific ceremonies, others stay on for weeks after the wedding day. Here's a complete checklist of traditional Punjabi bridal pieces and what each one represents.
Choora — The Red & Ivory Bangles
The defining symbol of a new Punjabi bride. Choora is a set of 21 (or sometimes 17) red and ivory bangles, traditionally placed on the bride by her maternal uncle (mama) during the choora ceremony before the wedding. Worn for 40 days to a year after the wedding, depending on family tradition. While the bangles themselves are often plastic or ivory-resin, the gold chooras worn over them — typically 22k gold bangles between the choora — are jewellers' work.
Kalire — The Hanging Ornaments
Kalire are dome-shaped or hanging gold pieces tied to the choora during the wedding by the bride's sisters and friends. Traditionally, the bride shakes her hands over each unmarried friend at the reception — whichever piece falls is said to predict the next bride. Modern kalire range from delicate gold lace work to more elaborate kundan-accented designs.
Tikka — The Forehead Piece
The maang tikka rests on the centre of the bride's forehead, attached to a chain that runs into the hair. In Punjabi tradition, it symbolizes spiritual focus and beauty. Tikkas range from small delicate pieces to elaborate statement designs spanning the full forehead. 22k gold with kundan accents is the classic choice.
Jhumar / Pasa — The Side Hair Piece
Worn on the left side of the head, the jhumar (also called pasa) is a side ornament that complements the tikka. It's particularly distinctive in Punjabi and Pakistani bridal looks. Heavy hand-crafted jhumars in 22k gold are a signature element of high-end Punjabi bridal sets.
The Necklace Suite
Most Punjabi brides wear at least two necklaces simultaneously: a longer rani haar (queen's necklace) sitting low on the chest, and a shorter choker-style piece higher up. Heavy 22k gold work, often with kundan or polki accents, defines the look. Matching earrings (jhumka or chandelier) complete the suite.
Nath — The Nose Piece
The nath connects from a nose ring to the ear via a chain. In Punjabi tradition it's worn during the wedding ceremony itself. Sizes range from delicate to dramatic. Some brides commission a custom nath in 22k gold to match the rest of the bridal set.
Bichua, Payal & More
Beyond the showpiece elements, Punjabi brides often wear: bichua (toe rings), payal (anklets), and additional rings on multiple fingers. Each piece is in 22k gold; together they form the complete bridal silhouette.
Sony Jewellers carries the full range of Punjabi bridal pieces in 22k gold. Custom designs welcome. View bridal collections →