`Shringar` is an essential part of an Indian woman`s daily life and the nose ring is one such adornment that is usually worn in almost all the regions of India. In some part of the sub-continent the nose rings are traditionally indispensable. Hence during and after marriages these small pieces of jewelleries are essentially worn. Nose rings in India are available in both gold and silver. With passing time, however, new metals have evolved, such as, white gold and others. With the advent of the fashion jewelleries the women had a wide variety of designs to choose from.

Opinions vary greatly as far as the history of nose rings in India is concerned. While some opine that the nose rings originated in the Middle East and the coming of the invaders the tradition of wearing these pretty pieces was introduced in India; others differ quoting Sushruta Samhita and strongly believe that this Indian jewellery has its roots in the ancient times. In the contemporary times, however, nose rings are worn both by Hindu and Muslim women. The reference to the nose studs are found in certain Hindu texts that define these as indispensable for married women.

The types of nose rings are ascertained by the part to be ornamented. If the nose rings are worn in the nostril, stud rings are very easy to use. If the nose rings are to be worn in septum, a circular barbell is worn and in case the ring is to be worn at the bridge of the nose between the eyes, the nose is decked by a straight barbell. On some occasions the septum rings are so large that a portion of the mouth is covered. As they cover the mouth, the nose ring comes in the way while eating. The nostril ring also draws in the attention. They are sometimes to a great extent decorated with pearls and precious or semiprecious stones. Due to this heavy ornamentation the nostril rings are to be supported by fine chains. This fine chain is attached to the hair. Such ornaments are quite during Indian weddings.

The names of the nose rings vary from region to region. In South India it is popular as `Mookkutthi.` Bigger nose rings are used in provinces, such as, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Gujarat and Punjab. In modern India, however, the nose rings have evolved as a style statement. So both married and unmarried women are in favour of using nose rings in India.