Temple jewellery are handcrafted in pure gold embedded with precious and semi precious stones like diamonds, emeralds, rubies, kemp, kundan and pearls. They also have motifs like that of gods and goddesses and royal figures. DC spoke to a few women to know about their choices.
Rachna Kumar, gourmet planner, says "It's always wonderful to experiment with different types of accessories. Diamonds and gold, of course, are great statements but it's all the more interesting to opt for less expensive pieces but with creative value. I love picking up statement stylish jewels from Turkey, London, and even Delhi. I shop at boutiques and even order from specialist temple jewellery designers."
She adds, "In Tamil Nadu for traditional events, I prefer authentic gold and I enhance the look with temple jewellery bangles or bracelets. This is the best way to shop smart and exude quirky fashion statements," says the woman who is a key player at Ficci FLO and various social organisations in the city.
Dancer Anita Ratnam saus, "I started wearing temple jewellery from a very young age. Such jewellery was associated with only traditional attire like saree for a long time. But, over the last 15-20 years our south Indian temple jewellery has become a fashion statement. I have seen people wearing temple jewellery with Western dress to give an Indian touch. I have also seen the version of temple jewellery under a white shirt. People are realising that temple jewellery has become timeless and now it can actually be adapted and worn proudly as a source of Indian heritage craftsmanship and culture. I also, feel the temple jewellery will be timeless and classic."
Temple Jewellery originated in the 9th century during the Chola rule. As the names suggest, it was used as embellishments on gods and goddesses in temples. Most of these jewellery are made in Nagercoil.
Musician Vandana Srinivasan simply loves temple jewellery. She explains, "I travel a lot and wherever I travel I wear saree and Indianess is something I love to profess wherever I go. Temple jewellery is something that is timeless and versatile it and goes wsell with saree. I haven't really experimented with it by wearing it with other kinds of attire. These days we get esilver temple jewellery as well."
With temple jewellery gaining popularity among women, Indian brides have also begun wearing stunning temple jewellery with antique finish on their D-Day.
