Temple Jewellery of Nagercoil
Jewellery
History
Temple jewelry, created during the Chola and Pandya dynasties, was originally crafted for royalty and deities using donated precious metals. Inspired by temple architecture and divine beauty, artisans designed intricate pieces that later became popular among temple dancers and devotees. Over time, temple jewelry gained deep religious significance and evolved into a cherished heirloom, becoming an essential part of a South Indian bride’s wedding collection, symbolizing tradition, devotion, and cultural heritage.
Raw Materials and Tools
Gold, silver, and precious stones form the base. Tools include molds, rollers, hammers, soldering equipment, and polishing materials.
Process
Temple jewelry begins with creating dyes and molds featuring motifs like temple tops and deities. Gold or silver billets are rolled, cut, and shaped into molds. Molten gold, beaten metal, or foils fill the molds. Soldering follows, and a final polish ensures durability and shine.
Design and Color
Kuchu Kal, a unique red and green stone, is used in temple jewelry, inspired by deities, temple tops, and divine motifs. Common designs feature Goddess Lakshmi, trees, coins, paisley (manga), parrots, and bells. The Thali, a symbolic Tamil Nadu necklace for married women, features intricate gold designs and precious stones. Given as a wedding gift, it signifies marital status and is cherished for its cultural and spiritual significance.
Product Range
Necklaces, bangles, earrings, rings, chokers and ottiyanam (kamarbandhs), vangi (armlet), etc.