Confluence of art and mythology

Temple jewellery

The beginning (Origin)

Temple jewellery is among the most artful of all jewellery types, and plays an essential role in the cultural heritage of the southern states in India. Embossed with depictions of gods and goddesses from the temples in south India, these simple-yet-artful pieces of work are sculpted from gold and silver.

Temple jewellery is said to have originated in the Chola and Pandya dynasties. In the early years, this kind of jewellery was made out of precious metal donations made to temples in south India, and was meant to be reserved for adorning deities and royals. Over the course of time, temple jewellery started becoming a piece that evoked religious sentiment and thus, became an essential heirloom in every south Indian bride’s jewellery collection. These pieces seek inspiration from deities, temple tops and divine figurines in their most basic form. However, elements of nature like flowers, leaves and peacock hold special value in its facet.

The art of Creating Authentic Temple jewellery (technique) Goddess Lakshmi and other female deities are the most commonly used motifs by jewellers. In addition to these recurring choices, temple jewellery also includes elements such as leaves, trees, coins, bells, and so on. At times, black coloured oxidized and red coloured gehru polish is used to give the ornaments a unique look.

Why it is so significant

Temple jewellery invokes a sense of a divinity and sanctity in your life every time you wear it. Even in today’s times, brides are looking to add a small element of tradition to their big day. Temple jewellery serves as the perfect traditional touch to a contemporary ensemble.

In order to endow a classic to the jewellery, Precious and Semi Precious Stones are used in both cut and uncut form. They are also made in different metals like silver, copper, bronze etc. which can be lighter for the pockets. The design of this jewellery itself makes the look so magnificent that it can even go with an understated outfit.

Different styles of temple designs

Some of the most noted designs in Temple Jewellery are waves, lines, birds, statutes of Gods - Goddesses and Royal Figures. The most common motif is Goddess Lama sitting on a Lotus. They are available as necklaces, bangles, earrings, rings, chokers and kamarbandhs, the contemporary update to this jewellery style now includes gemstones, diamonds, Rubies, Kundan, Pearls and filigree work as well to accentuate individual pieces and make them look heavier thereby adding a vibrant and royal touch.