Welcome To The World Of Traditional Nose Pins
The world of jewellery is expansive – there is something for almost every part of the body. There is the maang teeka and sheesh patti for the head, earrings, jhumkas and chandbalis for the ears. To adorn your neck, you can pick from a range of necklaces and there are bangles and bracelets aplenty for your wrists.
The kamarbandh can accentuate your waist and anklets can create music with every step! Even your nose can be made to look glamorous with the right nose pin and when you look at the selection of traditional nose pins, especially like the ones you can find at Unniyarcha, you will see there is so much to choose from.
The nose pin; although small in size, can be quite the statement maker in your overall look. It can actually change the way you look and eventually how you feel. From giving the most modern attire a traditional twist to being the perfect partners for your saree and festive wear, a nose pin might be just the addition to your look, that you have been looking for!
If you too are looking to explore the world of traditional nose pin online, then come to Unniyarcha!
The History And The Stories Behind The Indian Traditional Gold Nose Pin And More
In India, the nose pin has been around for a while – we have seen our grandmothers and mothers wear them and there are plenty of modern women who like to rock the pierced nose look too! However, the history of the nose pin goes way back and much beyond geographical boundaries.
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It is believed that the first nose piercings might have happened in the Middle East, almost 5000 years back. There is actually a reference in the Bible – in Genesis 24:22, there is a mention of a nose ring being gifted to Rebekah.
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Through trade and via migration routes, the nose pin made its way to India. It is possible that when the Mughals arrived in India, they brought the nose pin with them.
It is interesting to note that once the traditional nose pin design arrived in India, it went through several subtle changes – every part of the country made its own set of changes to make the nose pin its own!
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The nath, a hoop-like nose pin, often elaborate, became a common choice for brides of northern India.
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In Maharashtra, women were nathnis, which had distinct local influences and pearls and stones too.
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Women in southern india chose to keep things simpler – the mookuthi was and is often just a pin or stud made of gold.
Why The Traditional Nose Stud Is Still So Loved
There is a reason why the tradition of the nose pin has held its place since so many centuries. The humble nose pin goes beyond being just a fashion piece; there are actual benefits to it.
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It is believed that the left nostril is linked to reproductive health and married women would wear nose pins on their left nostril to ease childbirth.
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Women would start wearing nose pins to show that they had gotten married – similar to a mangalsutra or toe rings.
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Some people even consider nose studs as protection against evil eye and bad luck.
Today, the traditional nose stud has taken on a more modern guise – these have become expressions of individuality. From simple silver studs to elaborate hoops, there is plenty to choose from. Whether you are looking to mark your social identity or add to your style statement, Unniyarcha has all the options ready for you.
The Art And Glory Of The Traditional Nose Pin Design
When the nose pin arrived in India from the Middle East, we Indians made it our own! Every part of the country eventually had its own version of the nose pin and it evolved over time to become a part of the local jewellery.
Here is a sneak peek into the artistic evolution of the nose pin:
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In Kashmir and Himachal, brides wear a distinctive large gold or silver hoop, which is connected to the hair or ear with a long chain. You will get to see these in both Hindu and Muslim communities and that will alter the design.
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The nath is popular almost all over north India – this large hoop often comes with a chain that is attached either to hair or clipped onto the ear. There are variants with pearls, kundan, polki or coloured stones.
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Towards central parts of India, especially Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, you will see the nathni, which has a more intricately designed hoop. There is also the laung, which literally translates to "clove" and is a nose stud for regular wear.
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In parts of western India, you will see something called a phooli, taking its name from phool or flower and is often a tiny stud that sits really close to the nostril. In most cases, there will be a single small stone in the centre. The brahmani nath, one of the most recognised Maharashtrian designs, has a curved shape and has a cluster of pearls on the outer line.
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And down south, you will find the mookuthi, minimal studs that are often shaped like flowers, buds or even leaves. The traditional South Indian nose pin is often made of gold, but you can find silver ones too.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is it mandatory to be married to wear a nose pin?
Not really – while in some parts of the country, a nose pin is considered a symbol of matrimony, these days, young girls like to wear nose pins as part of their look.
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Do I have to have my nose pierced for a nose pin?
In general, you will need a piercing for a nose pin, but at Unniyarcha, you can find clip-on versions too!
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Can I wear a silver nose pin every day?
Of yes! Sterling silver is pure and hypoallergenic, making it suitable for regular wear. As long as you keep it clean, you should be able to wear it every day.
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Is it ok to wear a nose pin while sleeping?
Unless your nose pin is really ornate or heavy, you should be able to wear it, all day long, even while sleeping.
A nose pin isn’t just jewellery - it’s a whisper of heritage resting on your skin. From the quiet glint of silver studs to the bold curve of a bridal nath, each design has a story to tell.
