Antique Gold Finish Jewellery: What It Means and How to Care for It

Antique gold finish, also called antique finish, oxidised gold look or mehendi finish, is a deliberately darkened, matte gold tone rather than a bright, mirror-like polish. The recessed detail stays dark while the raised surfaces catch the light, so carved, layered and temple-style designs read more clearly. Sirini's antique-finish pieces are gold-plated imitation jewellery over brass or copper, handcrafted in Mumbai. They are not real gold, diamonds or precious stones. To browse them, see the antique gold collection.

What does antique gold finish mean?

A bright gold finish looks new and shiny. An antique finish is meant to look aged and warm, closer to an heirloom than a shop-fresh piece. The darker tone settles into the grooves of the design, which gives it depth in photographs and in daylight. It is a look, not a sign of age or wear, and a new piece can have it from day one.

Antique finish compared with bright gold polish

Bright polish suits clean, simple designs and sparkles under lights. Antique finish suits detailed work such as Kundan, Polki, temple motifs and floral carving, because the contrast makes the pattern easier to see. If you want a piece that looks richer and more traditional, choose antique. If you want a modern, high-shine look, choose bright. Our gold-plated vs solid gold guide explains what plating means in either case.

What to wear it with

Antique gold goes well with silk sarees, Kanjeevarams and traditional bridal wear, and it suits deeper colours such as maroon, bottle green and navy. It also works for mehendi and sangeet looks; our guide to mehendi, haldi and sangeet jewellery has outfit pairings. For stone styles, read the complete guide to Kundan jewellery.

Pieces to look at

For the wrist, the Antique Kada is Rs 3,600. For the head, the Antique Green Polki Pearl Bridal Passa is Rs 4,800. For a necklace, the Antique Finish Mint Kundan Pearl Long Necklace Set is Rs 13,200, and the Dulhan Antique Kundan Long Haar is Rs 19,280. Prices were read from the live catalogue on 4 October 2026 and can change.

How to care for antique finish jewellery

Put it on after makeup, perfume and hair spray, and take it off before bathing, swimming or sleeping. Wipe it dry with a soft cloth after wearing and keep it in a pouch away from damp. Avoid rubbing the darkened areas hard, since the contrast is part of the design. Our care and storage guide has the full routine.

Common questions

What is antique gold finish?

It is a darkened, matte gold-tone finish that makes carved and layered designs stand out. It is also called oxidised gold look or mehendi finish.

Is antique gold finish real gold?

No. Sirini's antique-finish jewellery is gold-plated imitation jewellery over brass or copper. It is not real gold, diamonds or precious stones.

Is antique finish the same as oxidised jewellery?

They are close. Oxidised jewellery usually means a dark, aged metal look, and antique gold finish gives a similar dark detail on a gold tone. Shoppers often use the two words for the same style.

Does antique finish suit bridal wear?

Yes, many brides choose it for a traditional, heirloom look, especially with silk sarees and deeper-coloured lehengas.

How do I keep antique finish jewellery looking good?

Wear it last, take it off first, wipe it dry and store it in a soft pouch away from damp.

What are the shipping and payment options?

Shipping is a flat Rs 150 within India, and cash on delivery is available on eligible orders. Sirini also ships to 28 countries abroad for a flat Rs 1,800. Change-of-mind returns are not offered; there is a 7-day exchange for defective, damaged or wrong items only.