The Begum Collection from Art Karat at Taj Deccan, Hyderabad

Jewellery inspired by the rear collections of Begum Noor Jahan, Mumtaz Mahal and Jahanara

Art Karat, a name synonymous with gorgeous silver jewellery and exceptional kundan craftsmanship, that has been showcased in numerous bollywood films such as Jodha Akbar, devdas and Zubeida presents its latest collection "Begum" —Jewellery inspired by the Royal Queens of the Mughal Empire, on display at Hotel TAJ DECCAN Road No.1, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad-500034 from 03rd to 07th October 2012

A brilliantly unique and interesting concept The 'Begum' Collection is inspired by the three most influential princesses of the Mughal Era. Begum Noor Jahan, who was considered by many as the first jewellery designer of India and invented the art of meenakari or enameling over metal had collected one of the most spectacular jewellery collections' in her time. Begum Mumtaz Mahal who was the daughter in-law of Noor Jahan and the most beloved wife of Emperor Shah Jahan, who bestowed upon her some of the rarest gems and jewels, one of them was the crown she wore at the Royal Court. and Begum Jahanara, who inherited most of her mother's jewellery and promoted the art of kundan and meenakari in India.

The 'Begum° collection is a tribute to these amazing women of the Mughal Empire who were collectors of some of the most desired jewellery pieces in all time. The collection focuses a lot on Kundan done in a very unique style. It is amazing to see how Art Karat has mixed size with elegance. It is seldom that such beautiful kundan jewellery can be seen in person as most of it is now only parts of museums or coffee table books. Most of the kundan jewellery seen in the market today are just recreations or variations of the same designs over and over again but Art Karat uses the art of kundan and mixes it with other art forms such as pave, carved gold work, south Indian temple work and various semi-precious stones such as amethyst, opal and citrine that makes it truly exceptional. A must see for all jewellery connoisseurs who crave for breathtaking designs. Asha Kamal Modi the designer behind Art Karat has recreated some fabulous pieces that reflect the Mughal, Deccan and European influences. Each piece is a work of art and you can see the exceptional creativity and effort that has gone in making these designs. Many celebrities, film stars, politicians, and artists including Rekha, Madhuri Dixit, Aishwarya Rai, Tina Ambani, Cherry Blaire and Alicia Keys have adorned Asha's designs. Asha has also done some fabulous pieces for Royalty including Princess Diana, Queen Rania of Jordan, Shekha Shamma Crown Princess of UAE and Maharani Gayatri Devi Jaipur.

The collection includes a beautiful range of necklaces, long earrings, bracelets, bajubandhs, tikes, rings and pins. More than 700 designs have been created for this collection and the entire range is priced between Rs. 2000 to Rs. 50000, with soaring gold prices it is a steal for jewellery collectors.

Art Karat has already exhibited its Begum collection across the United States and the UK, with an over whelming response abroad, they now plan to showcase this range across India in their showrooms and exhibitions. Most designs are also available to see and buy on the company's website artkarat.com or thru their catalog. For more information on the Art Karat's exhibitions and designs please call +91-9212550541