The story of the love for jewellery in India goes back almost 5,000 years. Adorned by royalty and commoners alike, Indian jewellery is a stunning example of fine craftsmanship. It is a beautiful representation of our rich culture and heritage.
One such exquisite style is temple jewellery. It is said to have originated in the 19th-century during the Pandya and Chola dynasties in South India. Made of precious gemstones and metals, it was initially used to adorn temple deities.
Devotees and temple dancers took inspiration from this and started to wear replicas of this jewellery.
Over the next few decades, it became a part of almost every South Indian household as a mark of their devotion. It is now an heirloom and is often included in a bride’s trousseau.
What sets this jewellery apart is the depiction of goddesses and gods intricately carved in gold and silver. You will often see sculptures, idols, leaves, flowers, coins, trees, and bells in these carvings. It is studded with gemstones and filigree work to enhance its look.
The allure of the timeless beauty of temple jewellery has not only withstood the test of time but has become popular in other parts of the country too. Now north Indian brides are also including these stunning pieces in their wedding attire.
Here are some of the most-loved pieces and designs of temple jewellery that you can pick up for your big day:
- Earrings: Temple jewellery earrings have an exceptional charm about them. Depending on how your style is, you can choose from heavy and large jhunkas to lightweight chandelier-style options. Some of the most popular designs include the ones with motifs of Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Ganesha, swans, and trees. To make them look more gorgeous and add to their heavy look, pair them up with chains that go to the back of your head.
- Necklaces: Necklaces in temple designs look nothing but super elegant and regal. You can opt for either the traditional long necklaces or the trendier choker pieces. These are usually studded with rubies, kundan, or uncut diamonds and set in yellow gold. They look even more beautiful when combined with a mango mala or kasu haram (coin necklace). What adds to their beauty is a chunky gold pendant for girlfriend that has the figurines of Goddess Mahalaxmi or Ganesha encrusted with colourful precious stones. To add more drama to your look, layer a temple design choker with a long necklace to cover almost your entire torso.
- Nose pins: Though it’s one of the smallest accessories, nose pins never fail to define your face. They add charm and a bit of edginess that sets you apart from the crowds. This is especially true when you wear one of the latest nose pins designs in temple jewellery. Choose a tiny gold stud embossed with a deity figurine or a small nath with a coin or mango leaf design. These go very well with both a denim and saree look.
- Hair accessories: One of the most unique pieces of temple jewellery to own is a ‘jadai’ or braid jewellery. Usually associated with classical dancers, this adornment due to its sheer classy elegance is being adopted by modern brides too. It starts with a circular hair ornament that holds your bun in place and includes fine motifs of holy symbols and deities that cover the entire length of your braid.
Temple jewellery is not only known for its remarkable beauty but also its versatility. It can be made as heavy or light as you want it to be to suit the occasion and your taste.
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