A number of factors have led to the development of metalcraft:

(a) the geographic formations that have produced a wide range of metals and minerals
(b) ancient scientific technologies of metalcraft in existence prior to the Industrial Revolution
(c) metal being considered as being among the more exalted of base resources for the Indian craftsmen.

Metal Crafts include:

Silver filigree work – A network of thin silver wires of varying thickness is fashioned into ornamental chariots, cutlery, tableware and jewellery. Orissa is famous for its silver filigree work.

Bidriware – In which silver inlay work is done against dark metal backgrounds. Andhra Pradesh is known for its bidriware.

Dokra Casting – In which bell metal, an alloy of copper and tin with the soft tint of dull gold, is cast into a variety of shapes, especially those of animals and gods. The tribes of Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Orissa, all in central India , produce exquisite dokra work.

Brassware - embellished with fine hand-engraving is used to make a variety of religious vessels and lamps. Moradabad in Uttar Pradesh, is a big center for brassware and electroplated white metal.

Lacquering and Colourful Enamelling done on brassware, In Rajasthan, produces beautiful bowls, plates, boxes and frames.

Copperware – decorated with calligraphy and floral designs, is used for water storage and drinking vessels, especially in Himachal Pradesh, Uttaranchal and Kerala.

Bronzeware - from South India , is used for statues (Shiva's tandava dance is, perhaps, the most recognizable) and mirrors.