Snapshot

• Why Cuttack is iconic: Cuttack is world-famous for its GI-tagged Silver Filigree jewellery (Tarakasi), an intricate art form dating back over 500 years. This heritage craft involves hand-twisting fine silver wires into delicate designs, making each piece a work of art.
  
• Cluster identity: Known as the “Silver City of India”, Cuttack is home to over 1,200 traditional silversmith families who specialize in temple jewellery, bridal ornaments, and cultural artefacts.
  
• Market positioning: While primarily a heritage-driven domestic market hub, Cuttack filigree has strong appeal for global craft collectors, jewellery boutiques, and luxury brands seeking artisanal pieces.
  

Product Range

Category	Key Products
Filigree Jewellery	Necklaces, bangles, earrings, pendants, hair ornaments.
Bridal Ornaments	Kasu malas, toe rings, anklets, nose rings, waist belts.
Temple & Cultural Pieces	Idols, crowns, ceremonial ornaments for Jagannath culture.
Fashion Accessories	Brooches, cufflinks, hairpins, decorative pieces.
Luxury Collectibles	Intricate sculptures, showpieces, souvenirs.
Custom Orders	Bespoke jewellery for weddings, festivals, and collectors.

Cluster Strengths

Feature	Details
GI Tag Recognition	Cuttack Silver Filigree holds Geographical Indication (GI) status since 2008.
Artisan Heritage	Craft passed through generations of karigars, with deep cultural roots in Odisha.
Intricate Craftsmanship	Jewellery made with 95%–99.9% pure silver wires twisted and soldered by hand.
Global Appeal	Preferred by luxury collectors and craft lovers in US, Europe, and Southeast Asia.
Cultural Significance	Integral to Odia bridal trousseaus, temple art, and cultural festivals.

Materials & Sustainability

• Materials Used: Pure silver, occasional gold plating, natural gemstones.
  
• Sustainability Edge:
  
  • Minimal chemical use; eco-friendly craft process.
    
  • Focus on artisan welfare, revival of traditional techniques.
    
  • Silver is recycled and re-refined locally.
    
• Social Impact: Supports over 5,000 artisans and family-based karigar units, strengthening rural Odisha’s craft economy.
  

Cluster Infrastructure

• Geographical Hub: Cuttack city (Mangalabag, Balu Bazaar) is the epicentre of silver filigree workshops.
  
• Institutions:
  
  • Odisha State Co-op Handicrafts Corp. (UTKALIKA): Marketing and training support.
    
  • GI Registry & Craft Development Boards: Promoting GI certification and artisan branding.
    
  • Handicraft Training Centres: Provide youth training in Tarakasi art.
    
• Market Infrastructure: Dedicated craft outlets, state-run emporiums, and participation in global jewellery fairs.
  

Compliance & Certifications

• GI Certification: Recognizes authenticity of Cuttack Silver Filigree jewellery.
  
• BIS Hallmarking: For silver purity (92.5% sterling or higher).
  
• Government Initiatives:
  
  • ODOP (One District, One Product): Cuttack identified for Silver Filigree promotion.
    
  • Craft Clusters: Support through SFURTI and Handicraft Mega Cluster schemes.
    

Production Timelines & MOQs

Product Type	Sampling Lead Time	Bulk Lead Time	MOQ Guidance
Bridal & Temple Jewellery Sets	14–21 days	6–8 weeks	Custom/Small Batches
Filigree Necklaces & Bangles	10–14 days	4–6 weeks	50–100 pcs/style
Fashion Accessories	7–10 days	4–6 weeks	100+ pcs/style
Luxury Collectibles & Idols	2–3 weeks	6–10 weeks	Bespoke Orders

Branding & Packaging

• Branding:
  
  • GI-tagged certification labels, QR-coded artisan branding.
    
  • Custom packaging highlighting heritage craft stories.
    
• Packaging:
  
  • Velvet or wooden boxes with anti-tarnish lining.
    
  • Secure tamper-proof packaging for exports.
    
• Marketing Narrative: Positioned as “Cuttack: Home of India’s GI-Certified Silver Filigree Jewellery.”
  

Quality Control (IndiaUnbox Protocol)

• Silver QC: Purity checks (BIS hallmarking, XRF testing).
  
• Craft QC: Hand-twisting, soldering, and detailing checks by master karigars.
  
• Finish QC: Polish, symmetry, and tarnish-resistance inspection.
  
• Export QC: Anti-tarnish packaging tests, international shipment protocols.
  

Price Drivers

• Silver purity and global silver price trends.
  
• Level of detailing (micro filigree vs machine-assisted designs).
  
• Artisan skill, hand-finishing, and exclusivity.
  
• GI certification premium and bespoke customisation.
  

Buyer Confidence Signals

• GI Protection: Ensures authenticity and origin of Cuttack Filigree jewellery.
  
• Global Heritage Craft: Sought after in luxury markets and international exhibitions.
  
• Cultural Prestige: Integral to India’s cultural identity and temple artistry.
  

Ethical Craftsmanship: Handmade jewellery, eco-friendly production, and artisan empowerment.