Uttar Pradesh is a large state not only in terms of population but in area too. The maximum areas of Uttar Pradesh were being directly ruled by many historical monarchs. The royal patronage on several crafts help Uttar Pradesh evolve in to an important centre of handicrafts.

Zardozi

The craft of zardozi or silver and gold embroidery was brought into India by Delhi's Turko-Afghan sultans in the 12th century. Down the ages, the craft became equally popular with the wealthy Hindu, Muslim, and European classes. Today several families in Varanasi, Agra, Lucknow, Rampur, Bareilly, and Farrukhabad, in the state of Uttar Pradesh, have revived this old craft to supply exquisite zari embroidered bridal outfits and salwar kameezes to boutiques round the country. But prices are considerably lower in Uttar Pradesh. Innovative designers have added functional bags, belts, caps, cushions, and wall hangings to their stock of ready to wear and custom made zardozi garments. A lighter and flashier offshoot of traditional Indian zardozi finds its way to top fashion houses around the world.

Uttar Pradesh's capital, Lucknow, is closely associated with another fine embroidery, chikankari. These cool summery shadow-work saris, kurtas, and veils have been in vogue in this city for hundreds of years. Prices vary according to the quality of material used, and the work done on it. Table and household linen in white or pale pastel muslin, organdy and voile are also popular buys.

The jewelers of this region specialize in making lightweight, hollow gold and silver ornaments, with emphasis on filigree and open work. So the huge jhumka earrings won't hurt your ears, and the impressive gold bangles don't cost a fortune! Semi- precious stones, artificial pearls, glazed quartz, and glass are used to recreate elegant old designs, which can pass off as family heirlooms. Of course, for those with a penchant for the best that money can buy, there are centuries old jewelry shops selling the real stuff like the Basra pearls, emeralds, rubies and diamonds. Then there are hair ornaments fit for nawabi weddings, riyasati signet rings, status conferring gold toe rings, and key rings to tuck into smartly draped saris.