4.Literature Review

 The concept of modernizing Jhumka by integrating Mehndi art into the jewelry was explored through research on companies specializing in Jhumkas and artists skilled in Mehndi art. I delved into a Cape Town-based company named “Jhoomka” and a professional Mehndi artist, Zeenat Adams, recognized for her unique work, “ZAHA.”
The prominent company for Jhumkas, "Jhoomka," differentiated itself by offering gold and silver-plated hand-painted Jhumkas, inspired by traditional Indian earrings. Their designs often feature elements such as the daisy, jasmine, and lawsonia inermis. In contrast, my approach involves creating modernized Jhumkas, enameling them, incorporating cutex as a substitute for enamel, developing diverse enameling techniques, and using gemstones for varied colors. The company's focus on color choice for consumer attraction and the precision of the decorative aspect has influenced my design process.

 Jhoomka's Jhumka: silver plated and hand-painted 

Jhoomka's Jhumka:Hand-painted, silver plated, silver balls, engraved design

Zeenat Adams, known for her detailed Mehndi designs, is a potential collaborator for incorporating Mehndi designs into jewelry. In a conversation with Zeenat, she highlighted the importance of practice for improving design skills, emphasizing the testing of designs and Mehndi pastes on herself before applying them to customers.

Zeenat Adams back mendhi design

Zeenat Adams bridal mendhi 

Most Jhumkas are typically sold at Indian fairs, local Indian outfit stores, or online platforms like Jhoomka. Zeenat, focusing on the Mehndi aspect, is based in Durban, while various Mehndi artists are found throughout South Africa. UAI

Jayshree's jhumka Earrings