Filigree is a unique craft. It has its own intricate design and superb craftsmanship. Cuttack district has a long tradition of meticulous and sophisticated craftsmanship in silver filigree works ... Locally known as "Tarakasi", the silver filigree of Cuttack is famous for its delicateness and intricate workmanship. The art is ancient which has its origin in Persian countries since 15th century. This craft had sufficient patronage during the Moghul period but subsequently suffered for lack of encouragement and marketing facilities. Most of the artisans engaged in the trade had to seek other avenues for their livelihood under difficult conditions. However, the State Govt.'s initative In 1952 to brings the craft into cooperative fold has ameliorated the conditions of the artisans. There are three categories of filigree crafts, such as Rose work, Siko work and Jali work to make filigree articles. The artisans first prepare a frame work for the article by means of a piece of silver wire drawn into thread as fine as a spider's web. Then weave inner textures and set it inside the frame. The whole thing is then fixed on a mica sheet with an indigenous paste and soldered. To give it a finish it is burnt in fire and cleaned in soap nut water. Filigree work is distinguished from other ornaments and jewellery by excellent finish, fine foils, textures and snowy glaze. That is why they are presented to dignitaries had other eminent national & international personalities in an event. Decorative pieces of Lord Krishna's chariot, Konark chakra and variety of other eye catching & spectacular silver ornaments are a craze for the modern fashion loving folk. The invention of machine finish is a threat to the sector, which can be counter balanced by innovative creations of artisans.

There are as many as 62 tribes in Odisha having different styles of living. It is seen that the women folk of most of the tribes, wear typical ornaments made out of brass/bell metal/silver/white metals ... made by a particular section of artisans mainly found in Rayagada, Phulbani, Gajapati, Koraput, Nawarangpur & Dhenkanal districts. The significance of this community is that they make varieties of items as per the necessity, design and motif of each ethnic group. Hence their items are culture and community specific. With design intervention the artisan could make wide range of fashion jewellery for the modern society. There is scope for export of such jewellery.