Indian bridal outfits are commonly accessorized with tikkas on a woman's forehead. While they do look bedazzling, maang tikkas - the chain and pendant set worn by many South Asian brides - also serve a spiritual purpose at religious ceremonies. They represent the wisdom a bride carries into her marriage, as symbolized by the wearing of the tikka right above the brides' eyebrows, at her temple. They are also meant to protect the bride from bad energy.
# The Modern Double Maang TikkaFor a regal look, the maang or chain of the tikka can be doubled up to spread out across the top of the bride's head, similar to a dauni. This adds an extra level of reinforcement which allows for heavier pendants and also other dangling jewels and gems - such as the pearls in this piece.
# The Side TikkaTikka can also be laid apart from the bride's hairline, laying parallel to the side part instead. This look allows the bride to part her hair in different ways while still showing off a dazzling hair piece. It adds a unique asymmetry to the look that draws attention to the pendant.
# The Multi-Chain TikkaMultiple chains can surround a bride's hair in this extravagant tikka look. The kundan-set gemstones are reminiscent of Mughal times, and Mirza looks regal in this heavily jeweled look. The multiple chains allow for a simpler hairdo and can hold up a heavier pendant.
# The Multi-Strand TikkaThis tikka encircles the bride's head and creates a net of fabulous jewels and sparkles. It has multiple chains, which all support the multi-faceted tikka in the center. This look is a statement piece, which highlights the bride's bold accessories and calls focus to her face.
# The Side MaangThe side-swooped chain on this maang tikka is a stunning and unique way to wear the jewelry. The look goes well with any type of hair part, since the chain does not have to align with the hair in any way. The central tikka is still the focus of the jewelry, but the elaborate chain design still stands out from a side view.