Types of Assamese jewellery
There are ten classic pieces. Each name links to the pieces we have in stock.
- Jonbiri জোনবিৰিPendant
- A crescent-moon pendant ("jon" means moon), usually set with red or green stones. The best-known Assamese ornament and part of most bridal sets.
- Gamkharu গামখাৰুBangle
- A broad, hinged bangle with engraved floral work, worn as a pair. The signature wrist ornament of Assam and of the Assamese bride.
- Golpota গলপতাChoker
- A choker-style necklace that sits close to the throat. It defines the silhouette of the Assamese bridal look and is often worn with a Jonbiri.
- Keru কেৰুEarrings
- Traditional Assamese earrings – light, round studs with a textured border, comfortable enough for everyday wear.
- Lokaparo লোকাপাৰোTwin-bird ornament
- Two birds joined back to back – "a pair of birds" – symbolising love and companionship; a favourite wedding gift.
- Dhol Biri ঢোলবিৰিPendant
- A drum-shaped pendant inspired by the dhol, the drum of Bihu music. A festive piece worn for Bihu and weddings.
- Doogdoogi দুগদুগিPendant
- A heart-shaped pendant, usually stone-set with small drops – a lighter festive alternative to the Golpota.
- Muthikharu মুঠিখাৰুBangle
- A thick traditional bangle, bolder than everyday bangles, often worn alongside Gamkharu at weddings.
- Bena বেণাArmlet
- A traditional armlet worn on the upper arm to complete bridal and festive outfits.
- Senpota চেনপতাWaist ornament
- A traditional waist ornament worn with the mekhela sador on wedding days and festive occasions.
The Assamese bridal set (biya gohona)
A traditional Assamese bride usually wears a Golpota choker, a Jonbiri or Dhol Biri pendant, a pair of Gamkharu bangles and Keru or Lokaparo, with a silk mekhela sador. Families often add Muthikharu and a Bena. Bridal sets are usually made to order so the bangle size and stone colours match the outfit – see custom orders.
What to wear for Bihu
For Rongali Bihu the classic look is a Jonbiri or Dhol Biri, Keru earrings and Gamkharu with a muga or pat silk mekhela sador. For a lighter look, a small Jonbiri with Keru is enough.
How to tell a well-made piece
- The seller states the base metal and finish (silver, gold-plated silver or gold).
- Stones sit evenly and firmly, with no glue showing at the edges.
- Engraving on a Gamkharu is crisp and continuous, and the hinge closes cleanly.
- Photos show the actual piece you will receive.
Caring for Assamese jewellery
Store each piece in its own dry pouch, keep it away from water, perfume and sweat, and wipe it with a soft dry cloth after wearing. More in our care guide.
Questions people ask
What is Assamese jewellery called in Assamese?
Assamese jewellery is called "Axomiya gohona" or "Asomiya gohona" (অসমীয়া গহনা) in Assamese. It is also searched as "Assamese gahana".
What are the most famous types of Assamese jewellery?
The best-known pieces are the Jonbiri (crescent pendant), Gamkharu (hinged bangle), Golpota (choker), Keru (earrings), Lokaparo (twin-bird ornament) and Dhol Biri (drum-shaped pendant).
What does an Assamese bride wear?
A traditional Assamese bridal set commonly includes a Golpota choker, a Jonbiri or Dhol Biri pendant, a pair of Gamkharu bangles, Keru or Lokaparo for the ears, and often Muthikharu and a Bena armlet – worn with a silk mekhela sador.
What jewellery is worn for Bihu?
For Rongali Bihu, women commonly wear a Jonbiri or Dhol Biri pendant, Keru earrings and Gamkharu bangles with a muga or pat silk mekhela sador.
Is Assamese jewellery made of gold or silver?
Traditionally it was made in gold; today most pieces are silver or gold-plated silver, set with red and green stones. Each Kakoli's Collection listing states its exact material.
Where can I buy authentic Assamese jewellery online?
Kakoli's Collection sells handcrafted Assamese jewellery online and delivers across India. Every piece is made by artisans in Assam, and custom bridal sets can be ordered through the website or WhatsApp.
How do I care for Assamese jewellery?
Keep each piece in a dry pouch, away from water, perfume and sweat, wipe it with a soft dry cloth after wearing, and clean gold-plated work gently so the plating lasts.