Chandbali
A crescent-moon earring, wide and flat, often layered in tiers. Chand means moon.
A chandbali hangs from a hook or stud and opens into a broad crescent, frequently with a second smaller crescent above it.
It is Mughal in origin and strongly associated with Hyderabad, usually in kundan, polki or pearl-fringed metalwork.
The lower edge normally carries a fringe of pearls or drops that follows the curve of the crescent.
When you are buying
Chandbalis are wide, so they read best with hair tied back and against an open neckline. Check the weight on the hook before committing to a large pair.
Chandbali-style earrings
A few from the collection, from ₹1,200.
Pretty Flower Earrings Featuring White Mother Of Pearl Petals & Peach Pearls
Stunning Linear AD Studs With White Oval Pearl Drops
Zig zag styled pearl hangings in light pink pearls
Simple pearl drops in white metal
Simple and pretty pearl hangings
Stylish pearl hangings in american diamonds
Zig zag styled pearl hangings in american diamonds
Wavy Hook Earrings Featuring White Button Pearls & CZ
Jhumka
A bell or dome-shaped earring, usually fringed with pearls or beads around the rim. The most recognisable Indian earring form.
Hangings
Earrings that hang below the lobe, as opposed to studs that sit on it. The everyday Indian term for drop earrings.
Kundan
A setting technique where highly refined gold foil is pressed around stones to hold them, with no prongs or claws.
Nizami Jewellery
The court style of the Nizams of Hyderabad: pearls in abundance, emeralds, and Persian-influenced form.