The story
Karimnagar's silver filigree craft dates back about two centuries, when artisans began twisting very fine silver wire into delicate lace-like patterns. The work is done by hand with tweezers, small furnaces and fine solder. Products range from jewellery to elaborate boxes and gifts presented to visiting dignitaries. Silver Filigree of Karimnagar carries a GI tag.
In numbers
One silver filigree cooperative society with 65 artisan members, and about 150 families, work in this craft in Karimnagar (2010-11 data).
Brief Industrial Profile of Karimnagar District (MSME-DI Hyderabad, DC-MSME) · 2011
GI tag
- Silver Filigree of KarimnagarApplication no. GI application no. 53Registration details of Geographical Indications (IP India GI Registry)
Ways in for a newcomer
- Sell filigree jewellery and gifts online and to corporate buyers
- Design light-weight, affordable filigree lines
- Supply silver wire and tools
- Gold-plated filigree for fashion jewellery
Problems the cluster faces
- Silver price swings
- Machine-made imitations
- Very few young apprentices
- Eye strain and low artisan earnings
Businesses to start here
Handicraft Jewellery Unit →Brass (Metal) Jewellery Making →Gold Plating of Optical Frames and Jewellery (Job Work) →