North 24 Parganas, West Bengal

Barrackpore Conch (Shankha) Bangles

Cream-white bangles cut and carved from conch shells (Turbinella pyrum) by the Sankhari artisan community in the workshops of Shankhabanik Colony, Barrackpore. The bangles are cut from the shell, polished and engraved, and traditionally worn in a pair by Bengali Hindu married women as a symbol of marital status. The craft, known as shankha shilpa, has run for centuries and the Barrackpore cluster supplies conch bangles, shankhas and decorative conch objects across Bengal, Assam and Odisha. A buyer gets lightweight, glossy bangles that are said to stay cool and are also sold as decorative and ritual objects.

Typical price: ₹200-2000

Buying tip: Check for a smooth, glossy finish without cracks or chips; thicker, heavier shells cost more, and engraving the inner side personalises the pair.