Bangles and Kadas: Gold, Diamond and Mixed Styles
Bangles are among the most worn pieces of Indian jewellery, from slim daily pairs to heavy bridal stacks. Kadas add bold, sculptural style. This guide covers the main styles of bangles and kadas, how to find your size, and ideas for stacking.
Sizing
Getting the size right matters, because a bangle must slide over the hand yet stay comfortably on the wrist.
- Indian bangle sizes are usually measured by inner diameter, in sizes such as 2.2, 2.4, 2.6 and 2.8.
- To measure: take a bangle that fits you well and measure the inside diameter from edge to edge.
- Ask your jeweller to size your hand, since knuckle size matters as much as wrist size.
- Openable bangles and kadas, with a hinge or screw, fit more closely to the wrist and are easier to put on.
If you are buying as a gift, borrow a bangle the recipient already wears.
Plain gold
Plain gold bangles are the foundation of most collections:
- simple round bangles for daily wear,
- machine-cut bangles with sparkling surface patterns,
- nakshi bangles with engraved traditional motifs,
- textured or hammered bangles for a softer, handcrafted look.
Choose solid designs for daily wear and consider lighter or hollow designs for occasional use. See Plain Gold Bangles and Chains.
Diamond and gemstone
Diamond and gemstone bangles add sparkle and colour:
- diamond bangles, from slim pavé bands to statement pieces,
- polki bangles, rich and traditional,
- gemstone bangles with emeralds, rubies or sapphires,
- pearl-accented bangles, a Hyderabadi favourite.
Stone-set bangles are usually made in 18K gold for strength. See The Diamond 4Cs for Indian Buyers and Understanding Gemstone Quality.
Kadas
A kada is a thicker, heavier bangle, often worn singly:
- plain gold kadas, bold and simple,
- engraved kadas, with traditional or modern patterns,
- stone-set kadas, with diamonds, polki or gemstones.
Kadas are popular for both women and men. See Jewellery for the Groom and Men's Jewellery.
Stacking
Stacking bangles is a great way to create different looks with the same pieces:
- Everyday: two to four slim gold bangles, or one bangle with a watch.
- Festive: layer plain gold bangles with one or two stone-set pieces.
- Bridal: full stacks with gold bangles, a kada and glass bangles in bridal colours.
- Mixing metals and stones: combine plain gold with diamond or polki bangles, keeping the gold tone consistent.
- Frame a statement piece: place a heavier kada or diamond bangle between slimmer bangles.
For pairing with outfits, see Pairing Jewellery With Sarees.
At Tibarumal & Sons Jewellers, Shaikpet, we can help you find your size and try different combinations in the showroom.
Visit Tibarumal & Sons Jewellers, Shaikpet
Tibarumal & Sons Jewellers
Shop No. 102, 8-1-299/121, RP Business Park, Al Hamra Colony, Shaikpet, Hyderabad 500008
Hours: Monday to Saturday, 11am to 8:30pm
Phone: +91 88855 00805
WhatsApp: Message us on WhatsApp
Instagram: @tibarumalandsons
