Sirini Mehendi Finish Ruby Polki Passa

The Sirini Mehendi Finish Ruby Polki Passa is a side-of-head hair ornament — a fan of ruby-red stones that pins into the hair just above one ear, worn next to the maang tikka rather than instead of it.

Made by hand at Sirini’s Santacruz West workshop in Mumbai; each stone is foil-set one at a time.

Details

• Materials: an antiqued green-gold mehendi finish, with hand-set Kundan and polki stones — fashion and imitation jewellery, not solid gold, diamonds or precious stones
• Made in: Sirini’s workshop, Santacruz West, Mumbai
• Fit: hook-and-pin fastening, worn on one side of the head
• Best for: the wedding day, reception and sangeet

How to wear it

Wear the hair up or in a low bun so the hook holds. Balance it with a chandbali or a plain jhumka on the same side, not a second large piece.

Care

Moisture is what dulls the plating and the foil behind the stones — put the piece on last, take it off first, and wipe it only with a dry soft cloth. The fanned tips catch on hair and fabric — handle it gently. Store it flat in its own pouch. Plating and polish are covered by a 1-year warranty.