Chitai silver jewellery of Jaipur displays the exquisite artistry and cultural heritage of the Pink City. Revered for its intricate carved designs for silver jewellery like the hasli (a stiff, circular neckpiece), the skill is passed down through generations.

Believed to have been worn by the nomadic tribes of Gujarat and Rajasthan, chitai is among the time-honoured crafts of India. The hallmark of chitai silver jewellery lies in the details. Skilled artisans carve intricate patterns onto the surface of silver ornaments. Most patterns are floral or geometric. Nature-inspired designs are most common. The process involves sketching the design and following the pattern on the silver surface with precision-targeted carving tools. It requires patience and an intimate understanding of the metal. Once carved, the pieces are often oxidised to enhance some of the contours, besides giving them an antique appearance. 

Artisans now add contemporary design touches to crafted earrings, wrist cuffs, neckpieces, pendants, nose pins, bangles, toe rings, rings, and anklets. In an era of mass-produced accessories, chitai-style jewellery stands as a symbol of artistic excellence and tradition

While the local Pink City market of Jaipur has many jewellers selling silver jewellery with chitai work, the Amrapali Museum has some extraordinary pieces, including decorative objects and small sculptural designs made with chitai.

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