Lotus, paisley, elephant, peacock: The sparkling allure of motif-led jewellery
ETimes April 19, 2026 06:39 PM
After Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda shared their wedding pictures, the elaborate gold jewellery and traditional motifs caught everyone’s attention. Consequently, nature-inspired and culturally rooted motifs are seeing strong demand this season, especially for Akshaya Tritiya and the wedding season. Designs featuring the peacock, lotus, mango (paisley), and elephant are gaining traction not just for their visual appeal, but for their symbolism.
Jewellers tell us why motif-led designs continue to be a preferred choice, the motifs in demand, and how the trend now extends beyond brides to include men as well.
LOTUS, MANGO, PEACOCK SYMBOLS LEAD THE DEMAND LIST
Jewellers say there is a strong preference for motifs that carry deep symbolic meaning alongside visual appeal. “Among flora and fauna designs, the peacock continues to dominate as a symbol of grace and beauty. The lotus follows closely. The mango, or paisley motif, remains a staple because of its association with fertility and abundance,” says designer Archana Aggarwal of Archana Aggarwal Timeless Jewellery.
“The peacock, with its intricate plumage, and floral designs across lotus, marigold, and jasmineinspired forms are what our buyers are gravitating toward most consistently. What makes the difference is craftsmanship – a peacock motif done with genuine skill looks entirely different from one that’s merely decorative,” says Ravi Bamalwa, director, Nemichand Bamalwa Jewellers.
Celebrity influence spikes heritage demand
From Samantha Ruth Prabhu to Taylor Swift, and more recently Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda, celebrity weddings continue to shape jewellery preferences.
“When a celebrity like Rashmika chooses a heavily embellishedhaathphool or Vijay’s family opts for a significant temple jewellery, it validates heritage design on a massive, aspirational platform. We saw a direct spike in enquiries after that. It is not about looking like the celebrity, but about feeling that same sense of occasion and rooted elegance,” says Archana.
“Celebrity weddings have certainly played a role in reviving interest in heritage-inspired jewellery. The visibility of traditional designs in high-profile celebrations has made them aspirational,” adds Pratik Dugar, co-owner, Indian Gem and Jewellery Creation.
Beyond bridal jewellery
While the bridal market remains the anchor, jewellers say demand is expanding across segments. “A bride getting married during the upcoming wedding season will almost certainly opt for a traditional motif. For Akshaya Tritiya, we have many male clients asking for an elephant cufflink or lotusshaped buttons. It is becoming a lifestyle choice, not just a bridal one,” Archana notes.
“Brides are still a significant part of our business, but the most interesting shift we’re seeing is among working women in their thirties – professionals, business owners – who are building a personal jewellery wardrobe the way they’d build a capsule wardrobe in fashion. They’re buying one significant motif piece a year, something that holds meaning and holds value,” says Ravi.
