Enigma Of Natural Indigo Dyes – Tjori

Living blue with Indigo dyes

Indigo dye stands out for its distinctive blue color. Natural indigo was the only source of the dye until about 1900. However, within a short time, synthetic indigo had almost completely superseded natural indigo. The natural dye comes from several species of plant, but nearly all indigo produced today is synthetic. A variety of plants, including woad, have provided indigo throughout history, but most natural indigo is obtained from those in the genus Indigofera, which are native to the tropical climate.

It began long ago

The earliest evidence of Indigo use dates back to the Bronze Age Indus Valley Civilization (3300 -1300 BC), also known as the Harappan Civilization. Is was the largest known ancient civilization and at its peak may have supported a population of over 5 million inhabitants. Archaeologists have recovered seeds from at least 4 different species of the genus Indigofera from the remnants of cloth dyed blue dated to 1750 BC from Mohenjo-Daro and Rojdi.

India is believed to be the oldest center of indigo dyeing in the Old World. It was a primary supplier of indigo to Europe as early as the Greco-Roman era.

And today..

Today there are at least 50 different species of Indigofera growing in India. In the Northwest region, indigo dyes have been processed into small cakes by peasant producers for many centuries. It was exported through trade routes and reached Europe. Greeks and Romans (300 BC – 400 AD) had small amounts of blue pigment in hard blocks, which they thought was of mineral origin. They considered it a luxury product and used it for paints, medicines and cosmetics.

But how is the Indigo dyed for utilitarian usage?

Indigo dyeing is a three step process:

Dyeing begins with the extraction of coloring matter from dye material.
In the second stage, the fiber to be dyed is pre-treated in various ways.
And then the pre- treated fabric is heated in the extracted dye at different temperatures depending on the dye material, usually for about 30-45 minutes, for the dye to take on the fiber for a long-lasting effect.

We have picked out an exclusive range natural indigo dyed products to adorn your wardrobe.

Indigo Bagru Jutti With Gota
Constructed to offer a comfortable fit and enriched with a Gota pattern, this pair of offbeat juttis is a perfect amalgamation of practicality and ingenious style. These are sure to be a perfect addition to your ethnic style.

Aja Indigo Clamp Dyed Handloom Cotton Saree
This saree is designed with an array of print and an intricate border for a feminine and chic look. Crafted in a beautiful shade of blue and handcrafted with 100% natural vegetable dyes this beautiful collection will leave you mesmerized.

Embellished Bagru Kolhapuri Chappals With Lace Detailing
Reinvent festive grooming with this indigo blue bagru printed kolhapuri chappals. Flaunting exquisite lace detailing and made with genuine leather, these kolhapuri chappals showcase a perfect blend of contemporary styling and ethnic dressing.

Peenak Indigo Clamp Dyed Dupatta With Zari Border
Finessed with a complimented by a square box pattern, this dupatta is sure to one of your treasured pieces of fabric. Further the zari border adds to the glory of the dupatta. Handcrafted with 100% natural vegetable dyes this beautiful collection will leave you mesmerized.

Indigo And Ruby Red Coin Necklace With Cotton Thread Dori
Add a burst of color to your accessory stash with this contemporary necklace decorated with exquisite coin detailing. Adorned with a mix of cotton fabrics and cotton thread dori, this statement necklace is sure to steal the spotlight.

Indigo And Red Tassel Statement Necklace With Cotton Thread Dori
Add a burst of vibrancy to your accessory stash with this statement necklace adorned with red tassels. Topped with sturdy cotton thread dori and german silver coin detailing, this statement necklace is sure to steal the spotlight.

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