Lac is a resinous substance deposited on the twigs of various trees in Southern Asia by the female
lac insect. It is used in the manufacture of varnishes, sealing wax etc. In several parts of India,
this is used in the making of various kinds of decorative and utility items.
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In Orissa, lac is used in making combs, known as Lac Siredi, which are in quadrangular shapes for men
and circular shape for women. Bihar is famous for their lac bangles, which have lac cores decorated
with glass beads, mirrors and gold foil.
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Lac bangles are worn by Rajasthani women on all auspicious
occasions. Bangles are made in several shades, studded with semi precious stones and glass pieces.
They also make jewellery using beads and lac studded with glass chatons.
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Lacquer craft refers to the use of lacquer in pleasant shades on products made of wood. They have a
distinct and attractive look and each region uses lac in their own individual style. Lacquer work
on wood can be found in Kashmir, Bihar, Chennapatna toys of Karnataka, Etikopakka of Andhra, lacquered
household items of Gujarat, Punjab, Rajasthan, toys of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh and Bamboo products of Orissa.
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