The precious-jewellery craft of Delhi received great patronage from the royalty in the past with the result that it became well established in the city. The demand for fine jewellery still continues, and has sustained the craft. Apart from jewellery made with gold and precious stones, a vast quantity of silver and costume jewellery is also made in Delhi. Delhi is also an important crafts centre for minakari jewellery. Minakari or enamelling is an elaborate technique combining goldsmithy, gem-setting, painting, and engraving, as well as the use of various colours. Minakars are highly skilled jewellers, with their skill having been handed down through the centuries. Precious stones are set into gold etchings of birds, flowers, and fish. The vibrant enamel colours are filled in painstakingly as in a miniature painting. Heat is applied to enhance the richness of the colours. The end result is a wonderful interplay of brilliant colours and designs. Silver ware is also made in Dariba in Chandni Chowk. Household utensils in all forms and designs, plain as well as ornamental, are available here.
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