Mangalsutra in Nadi, Fiji

For many Fiji Indian families, the mangalsutra is the piece that matters most on the wedding day. It is usually a strand of black beads and gold, often with a pendant, tied around the bride's neck by the groom during a Hindu ceremony and then worn as a sign of marriage. Traditions differ between families and regions (in South India it is known as the thali), so follow what your own family does.

What to look for in a mangalsutra

The purity stamp

Look for the 916 stamp, which marks the gold as 22ct (91.6% pure). It is usually on the clasp or the back of the pendant. Every 22ct piece at Shreeji Jewellers carries one. Our guide to what 22ct means explains the numbers.

Styles

• Standard: one or two strands of black beads with a simple gold pendant. Easy to wear every day and under work clothes.
• Fancy: more strands, gold sections or "tubes" between the beads, and a larger or more detailed pendant. These are often chosen for the wedding itself.
• One-of-a-kind: distinctive designs you won't see repeated in the case. The best ones go quickly, so if you see one you love, don't wait too long.

Length

Mangalsutra come in shorter, close-to-the-neck styles and longer styles that sit lower on the chest. Think about how she will wear it most days. A shorter piece sits neatly with Western clothes and work wear. A longer piece shows well with a sari or lehenga.

The neckline matters too. A high neckline suits a long mangalsutra that falls below it, or a short one sitting above it. An open or deep neckline suits a shorter style that sits close to the neck. If you are unsure, measure a chain she already wears and likes, from end to end, and bring that number in.

Bold or simple

A bolder, more detailed mangalsutra makes a statement on the wedding day. A lighter, simpler one is comfortable for daily wear. Some families choose a fancier piece for the wedding and a simple one for everyday. Heavier and more detailed pieces cost more, and we'll show you options to suit your budget.

Wearing and caring for it

22ct gold is rich and pure, so treat it kindly and it will look good for years.

• Put perfume, hairspray and lotion on first, then your mangalsutra.
• Take it off to swim, at the gym and for heavy cleaning.
• Store it flat in its own pouch or box so the bead strands don't knot.
• Wipe it with a soft, dry cloth after wearing. Our 22ct care guide has more detail.

If a bead strand or clasp ever gives way, stop wearing it and bring it in. Repairs are available in store, and we'll tell you what's possible.

Buying a mangalsutra on a trip home

Many of our customers live in Australia, New Zealand, the USA or Canada and choose their mangalsutra while they are home for a wedding.

1. Call or email before you fly. Tell us the style, rough length and when you arrive, and we can let you know what is in the shop.
2. Come in early in your trip. It gives the family time to look together and come back for a second look.
3. Bring the outfit photos. A picture of the sari or lehenga helps us bring out the styles that will suit it.

If you are buying the full set of wedding pieces at once, our Fiji Indian wedding jewellery guide and bridal necklace sets page will help you plan.

At the counter

Bring a photo of the wedding outfit and the length she likes, and say whether the piece is for the ceremony, for every day, or both. Try a short and a long style side by side before you decide.