7 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying A Mangalsutra

In this post, I’ll share 7 mistakes that you can avoid and find your perfect mangalsutra.

1.  Spending little or no time to understand mangalsutra cultural significance

Your wedding checklist says you need a mangalsutra.

So you go looking for mangalsutra options.

You soon realize that there are many choices. You want to get a mangalsutra that matches you personal style and taste.

But the jeweler, your parents or in-laws inform you of the cultural requirements.

Do you give in and get a piece that’s traditional or would you rather the one that you’ll love wearing?

For example, it is a must to have black beads in a mangalsutra.

You are fine with the black beads but you prefer to have the black bead chain in rose gold.

In this case, you can ask for a rose-gold piece rather than being stuck with a gold color that you don’t like. By asking the right questions, take the time to understand the cultural requirements.

2. Forget to discuss with the bride-to-be on her mangalsutra style preference

As a groom or member of the groom’s family, you’re planning to get the mangalsutra.

You find beautiful pieces and decide to pick one that you like.

You choose the mangalsutra based on your personal taste, budget or available options at that time.

But you may forget that your choice is something the bride will have to live with for her lifetime.

The bride wears a mangalsutra on a regular basis after her marriage.

If she doesn’t like the style, it’s likely that the mangalsutra will end up in the bank safe or not be worn at all.

For this reason it’s important to pick a piece that matches the bride’s style preferences.

3. Choosing a piece that you can only wear on Indian outfits

As discussed earlier, a mangalsutra has cultural significance.

Therefore the designs also reflect our traditions and heritage.

But these days many Indian brides wear western outfits.

Particularly if you are working woman in a western country, chances are that you seldom wear Indian clothes to work.

If you can pick a piece that matches western and Indian clothing, you’ll be able to get the most of your mangalsutra.

For example, in the picture below, the bride has black beads in the back of the chain making it more versatile and unique.

4. Disregarding mangalsutra design elements

Mangalsutra design elements are the most under-appreciated. When deciding on your mangalsutra, pay attention to the following design elements:

a. Length

Decide how long you want your mangalsutra chain to be. In some cultures, the chain needs to be long enough that the mangalsutra pendant remains hidden at all times. Chains can be anywhere between 16 inches to 36 inches. In this video, you can learn exactly how to measure the perfect mangalsutra length. 

b. Clasp

The clasp is the piece of metal that you touch with your fingers every time you want to wear or remove your mangalsutra. Low-quality clasps can break or make it difficult for you to wear or remove the mangalsutra.

c. Gold Metal Color

Gold metal color is generally a personal choice. For instance, you can opt for yellow, white or rose gold.  

d. Chain Options

There are many different types of mangalsutra chains. For instance, you can get gold chains with unique designs. Or for black-beaded chains, you can find variety in the size of the beads.

e. Pendant Design

Pendant designs can be traditional or modern.

For instance, if you are deciding to go with a diamond mangalsutra, there are hundreds of pendant design options.

You can also decide to incorporate gemstones in the pendant.