How to Buy Kundan Jewellery Online in Pakistan (and Keep It Shining)
What Kundan actually is, how to read a jewellery listing, which pieces suit a bride and which suit a guest, and the simple habits that keep gold-plated sets looking new for years.
By Ali Hamza ·
Key takeaways
- Kundan is a setting technique, not a metal: stones or glass are set into gold foil, usually on gold-plated brass or silver.
- Read the item specifics for the base metal, the plating and the stones; the photos alone cannot tell you that.
- A bride usually needs a full set; a guest looks better with one statement piece such as jhumkas or a choker.
- Perfume, water and sweat dull plating fastest; put jewellery on last, wipe it after wearing and store each piece separately.
If you want a bold, traditional look for a wedding or Eid, Kundan is the classic choice — and buying it online is easy once you know what to read in a listing. Kundan is a way of setting stones, not a type of metal, so the questions that matter are what the piece is made of, how it is plated and whether it suits the outfit and the event.
What Kundan actually is
In Kundan work, a craftsman presses thin layers of gold foil around each stone or piece of glass to hold it in place. The foil behind the stone gives the deep, mirror-like shine that Pakistani bridal sets are known for. Historically the base was pure gold. Today, almost all Kundan worn at weddings and functions is set on gold-plated brass or silver, which keeps the look while costing a fraction of solid gold.
It is often sold alongside two close relatives:
- Polki — uncut or lightly cut stones with a softer, vintage sparkle.
- Zircon (often called American diamond) — machine-cut stones that shine like diamonds and suit lighter, modern pieces.
If you want the full comparison, read Kundan vs Polki vs Jadau.
How to read a jewellery listing
Photos show the design; the item specifics tell you what you are paying for. Before you order, look for:
- Base metal: brass, copper or silver. Silver-based pieces cost more and are often lighter.
- Plating: gold, rose gold, antique or oxidised finish.
- Stones: Kundan, Polki, zircon, pearls or a mix.
- Size and weight: necklace length, earring drop, and whether a bangle or ring size is stated.
- What is included: a "set" can mean a necklace and earrings only, or also a teeka, jhoomar and bangles.
If anything is missing, message the boutique from the product page before you order. A good seller answers clearly, and the question stays on record.
Choosing pieces for a bride
A bridal set is usually built around the outfit's neckline. A high or closed neckline suits a choker or a short necklace; a deep or wide neckline can carry a long rani haar or a layered set. Most brides also wear:
- a teeka or matha patti on the forehead,
- a jhoomar on one side of the head (common for the barat),
- a nath (nose ring), and
- bangles or a kara to finish the hands.
Match the metal tone to the embroidery. Gold zardozi and tilla work pair with yellow-gold plating; silver dabka and pastel walima outfits look better with antique silver or champagne tones. Our bridal dress and jewellery guide goes through each event.
Choosing pieces as a guest
Guests should look festive without competing with the bride. One statement piece is enough:
- Large jhumkas with a simple neckline,
- a choker with an outfit that has a plain or boat neck, or
- a delicate set with a heavily embroidered formal.
For mehndi, colourful stones, pearls and gota-inspired pieces suit the mood. Read what to wear to a Pakistani wedding for the dress code of each function.
Checks when the parcel arrives
Because every Stylica order is cash on delivery, you see the parcel before you pay the rider. When you open it:
- Check that every piece listed in the set is there.
- Look at the backs of the stones — they should be firmly set, with no glue seeping out.
- Check clasps, hooks and earring posts.
- Compare the colour with the listing photos in daylight.
If something is wrong or damaged, report it from your order straight away and keep the packaging.
Keeping Kundan jewellery shining
Plating wears off through friction and chemicals, not age. A few habits make a big difference:
- Last on, first off. Put jewellery on after perfume, hairspray and make-up, and take it off before you wash your face.
- Keep it dry. Water and sweat dull plating; never shower or do wudu while wearing it.
- Wipe after wearing. A soft, dry cloth removes make-up and skin oils. Do not use polish or chemical cleaners.
- Store separately. Keep each piece in its own pouch or box, ideally with a strip of anti-tarnish paper, so stones do not scratch each other.
- Keep it flat. Hang or lay necklaces flat so the settings do not bend.
The short version
Decide what the piece is for, read the base metal, plating and stones in the listing, match the tone to your outfit and look after it with the simple care habits above. Browse Kundan jewellery from verified boutiques, pay in cash when it arrives, and keep this guide handy for the next wedding season.
Frequently asked questions
Is Kundan jewellery real gold?
Traditional Kundan is set in pure gold, but most Kundan sold for weddings and festive wear today is gold-plated brass or silver. A listing on Stylica states the base metal and plating under item specifics.
How long does gold-plated Kundan jewellery last?
With careful use — no water or perfume on it, wiped after wearing and stored in a pouch — plating keeps its colour through many functions. Daily wear and contact with sweat wear it down much faster.
Can I return jewellery bought online?
On Stylica, unused jewellery with its original packaging and tags can be returned within 7 days of delivery. A wrong or damaged piece should be reported from your order as soon as you open the parcel.
What is the difference between Kundan and Polki?
Kundan sets glass or stones in gold foil for a bold, reflective look. Polki uses uncut or lightly cut stones, which sparkle more softly. Many bridal sets combine the two.