What do you understand when you hear South Indian Jewellery? You may consider it a fashion statement, but these accessories are more than what meets the eye. In fact, South Indian jewellery holds a bulk of religious, traditional, mythological and cultural significance.
When you see people wearing these accessories, whether females or males, you could totally get a reflection of the rich cultural heritage of Southern India and this is an important element of their traditions.
Let’s understand various aspects of South Indian jewellery in a bit of detail so that you can get a better idea about how these accessories have attracted people from the most ancient times:
Significance of South Indian Jewellery
South Indian jewellery has a lot of significance in the following aspects:
Marriages
South Indian jewellery is a special part of the bride’s overall appearance at her wedding and is a symbol of her status as a married woman. The most important part of this ceremony is her Mangalsutra or the wedding necklace which is the identity of a married woman and is known to protect her from evil, bringing good luck and prosperity to her life.
Festivals
India is a land of festivals and South Indian jewellery is very popular in these religious occasions. Whether Onam, Pongal or Diwali, these festivals are celebrated with a lot of pomp and women like to wear these jewellery products to get their best appearance.
Family Heirlooms
Just as Indian cultures and traditions are passed down from generation to generation, even South Indian jewellery is preserved by people and is passed to future generations. This is the representation of their cultural heritage and hence people keep it as a gift from their forefathers.
Status Symbol
In the past, South Indian jewellery was also seen as a symbol of status and wealth. It is believed that only the rich could own such expensive jewellery and was considered a mark of one's social status. In fact, it’s still a sign of prosperity, but now, It is owned by all income levels.
So South Indian jewellery holds great significance for people in Southern India and it’s more than a fashion statement for people.
History Of South Indian Jewellery
South Indian Jewellery has a rich history which dates back millenniums. As per records, the earliest evidence of South Indian Jewellery was found in Indus Valley Civilization which existed around 3300 BCE.
This existed in the northwestern part of the Indian subcontinent where people were known for their advanced metal-working skills and jewellery design creations.
As time progressed, South Indian jewellery saw an upsurge with the arrival of different dynasties.
The Sangam period (from the 3rd century BCE to the 3rd century CE) was considered a golden age of art and it brought a lot of South Indian Jewellery designs which are popular even today.
The use of intricate designs and precious stones was a common part of South Indian jewellery in the era.
Even during the Chola Dynasty (from 9 CE to 13 CE) and Vijayanagara Dynasty (from 14 CE to 16 CE), South Indian jewellery saw great development.
The Cholas were great patrons of art and brought the temple jewellery culture into existence with bold designs.
However, South Indian Jewellery reached a peak of its sophistication during the Vijayanagara Empire and continued to evolve even after the fall of the empire.
These jewellery products saw a European influence in the 19th century which led to a dwindle in the application of traditional designs.
However, the popularity of traditional designs got reinstated after the British left India and traditional South Indian Jewellery is still one of the most popular parts of the culture of people.
Evolution of South Indian Jewellery
South Indian Jewellery has seen a lot of changes with time and it has evolved in numerous ways. However, it has always preserved the economic and cultural landscape of the places it comes from.
In the olden days, South Indian Jewellery was quite simple and was made up of gold or silver. The use of precious stones and intricate designs was pretty less because while precious stones were limited in their availability, the jewellery was mostly made by hand. No doubt, the process was expensive and took a lot of time.
As time passed, South Indian Jewellery evolved and saw a lot of use of precious stones such as rubies, diamonds and emeralds. Besides, they used a lot of intricate patterns and designs into these.
The dynasties which ruled in South India had a lot of influence on jewellery. The Cholas, the Vijayanagara and the Pandya dynasties were particularly the patrons of art and contributed a lot to the designs of these ornaments.
No wonder, most of the iconic South Indian jewellery is a result of the styles and motifs brought about by these dynasties.
Besides the influence of dynasties, South Indian jewellery also took lessons from emerging fashion trends.
For instance, in the 19th century, South Indian jewellery turned more ornate and elaborate and had the reflection of the Victorian era of fashion. Moving forward, the 20th-century ornaments in South India were quite modern and minimalist.
But is it the end of the evolution of South Indian jewellery?
No, South Indian jewellery is still evolving, using the latest materials, designs and techniques. So while the traditional character of the jewellery is still quite popular, the latest trends have offered it a fashionable touch as well.
Popularity of South Indian Jewellery
Why is South Indian jewellery so popular?
Well, there are a number of reasons. For instance, South Indian jewellery is known for its intricate designs, use of distinct types of precious stones and metals and is actually a fashion statement even among celebs.
Besides, South Indian jewellery holds a lot of cultural significance as well. Any form of religious or cultural ceremony is incomplete without women wearing these ornaments.
In fact, their jewels are actually a status symbol in society and the more they wear the jewellery, the more wealthy and respected they are considered.
So South Indian jewellery is actually quite popular since the most ancient times and is not expected to lose its popularity any soon.
Types of South Indian Jewellery
South India might be a small term, but it signifies a huge cultural diversity. The appearance, clothes, food, culture, traditions, languages and even jewellery styles of people change within a few kilometres.
So you can expect South Indian Jewellery to exist in many different types.
Here is a detailed description of the major types of South Indian Jewellery:
Types of South Indian Jewellery by States
- Jewellery designs of Tamilnadu: Tamil Nadu is popular for South Indian jewellery designs such as Tanjore jewellery, Palani jewellery and Nagore jewellery etc.
- Jewellery designs of Kerala: If you are looking for popular South Indian jewellery designs from Kerala, you can pick from Kalamkari jewellery, Vadakkan jewellery and Kanthapura jewellery etc.
- Jewellery designs of Karnataka: Karnataka offers you a wide variety of South Indian jewellery which includes Bidri jewellery, Chola jewellery and Mysore jewellery etc.
- Jewellery designs of Andhra Pradesh: Andhra Pradesh is very famous for South Indian jewellery such as Kundan jewellery, Palladam jewellery and Kamarbandhu etc.
- Jewellery designs of Telangana: Telangana was a part of Andhra Pradesh and hence you would find the popular South Indian jewellery designs of Andhra Pradesh in the state.
So based on South Indian states, you can pick any of the above forms of jewellery to get a unique appearance.
Types of South Indian Jewellery Based on Crafting Methods
It all begins with a design and this is what makes South Indian jewellery stand apart from the others.
The crafting of South Indian jewellery is an age-old tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation.
The craftsmen use a variety of techniques to create intricate and beautiful pieces of jewellery and all of these have their own unique history and significance.
Here are some of the most common, but very popular, crafting methods used to create South Indian jewellery:
- Temple jewellery
- Nakshi Work Jewellery
- Nizami Jewellery
- Palakka Jewellery
- Bidri Jewellery
Here, it’s important to note that these are just a few of the many different crafting methods and each method has its own unique history and tradition which contributes to the rich diversity of South Indian jewellery.
Also, the craftsmen of South Indian jewellery do it with absolute love. It takes an entire age of training and experience to master the intricate techniques.
No wonder, the artisans take great pride in their work because the outcomes are a form of jewellery that is beautiful and meaningful and is a cherished part of the South Indian culture.
Types of South Indian Jewellery Based on Materials
It’s easy to understand this classification and South Indian jewellery can be obtained in the following types according to the materials:
- Gold Jewellery
- Diamond Jewellery
- Silver Jewellery
- Polki Jewellery
- Pearl Jewellery
- Gemstone Jewellery
- Semiprecious Jewellery
- Copper and Brass Imitation Jewellery
However, there is more than what meets the eye, in terms of these materials and South Indian jewellery has a deeper symbolic meaning.
For instance, South Indian jewellery made up of gold is seen as a symbol of prosperity and wealth.
Besides, silver jewellery is associated with innocence and purity. While pearls could be seen as a symbol of commitment and love, diamonds can portray power and wealth.
Similarly, other gemstones may have a specific meaning in distinct cultures.
The material for South Indian Jewellery can also be picked according to the occasion. While gold and silver ornaments can be worn daily, pearls, diamonds, platinum and precious stones are reserved for festivals and weddings.
So you see, even the materials in South Indian jewellery portray something serious. It’s not just what meets the eye.
Types of South Indian Jewellery Based on Where it is Worn
South Indian jewellery can adorn you from head to toe. There are so many different ornaments based on the body part it is worn and here are some of them:
- Head Jewellery
- Nose Pins or Nose rings
- Earrings
- Necklaces
- Bangles & Bracelets
- Finger Rings
- Armlets
- Hip chains or waist belts
- Anklets
- Toe Rings
And while these jewellery products add to the charm of women, they also signify a lot of other things. For instance, jewellery worn in some parts of the body such as the neck and toes holds traditional values and customs of a married woman.
The mangalsutra and toe rings are worn only by married women in India.
Besides, nose rings are often seen as a symbol of prosperity and fertility. Not to forget, South Indian Jewellery could be worn on any part of the body for fashion purposes.
It adds to the elegance and glamour of the outfits and offers an extraordinary appearance to a woman.
Types of South Indian Jewellery Based on Gender
Yes, while 99% of South Indian jewellery is meant for women, there are some jewellery products meant for men as well.
Here is how South Indian jewellery can be classified based on gender:
South Indian Jewellery for Women
No marks for guessing, almost everything mentioned above is meant for women and it can be based on parts of the body, material and crafting methods etc.
South Indian Jewellery for Men
Yes, there are some South Indian Jewellery products for men as well and they can wear finger rings (in gold, silver, having precious stones), kadas (bangles) made up of gold or silver, having intricate designs and gemstones, and chains made up of precious metals and stones which symbolise wealth and prosperity.
Popular Traditional South Indian Jewellery Names
- Manga malai/ mangamala/ Paisley necklace/ Mango haram
- Kasumalai / Kasumala / Kasinasara / Kasulaperu / coin necklace
- Vanki / Armlet
- Vaddanam/ Arapatta / Oddiyanam/ Hipbelt
- Temple Lakshmi Haram
- Kemp Necklace
- Guttapusalu Haram
- Papidi Billa / Netrichutti/ Nettichutti/ Mundale/ Mang Tika
- Gundala Haram
- Nakshi Haram
- Palakkamala
- Mullamottu mala
Manga malai / Mangamala / Paisley necklace / Mango haram
Although manga malai, mangamala, paisley necklaces and mango haram necklaces are slightly different in terms of their structure, they have a lot of similarities too.
These necklaces are very popular among women at weddings and other special occasions. They are also a symbol of fertility and prosperity and could be made up of gold or silver.
Kasumalai / Kasumala / Kasinasara / Kasulaperu / Coin Necklace
All these terms refer to a kind of coin necklace that is very popular in Southern India. It is usually made up of gold or silver coins that are strung together in a chain.
Many people also call them Lakshmi coins and consider them a symbol of good luck and prosperity. These necklaces are often worn by married women on festivals and other special occasions.
Vanki / Armlet
Vanki is a kind of armlet that is worn on the upper arm. It is made up of gold or silver and can contain intricate designs. It is very popular at weddings and other special occasions.
These armlets can occur in lots of varieties and can range from simple to elaborate designs. They can contain animals, flowers and geometric shapes and you can even be engraved with a special message or date.
Vaddanam / Arapatta / Oddiyanam / Hipbelt
These are the kind of South Indian jewellery worn around the waist and could be made up of gold or silver, decorated with intricate designs.
This form of ornament is also a symbol of prosperity, love and good luck.
Temple Lakshmi Haram
Temple Lakshmi Haram is a kind of traditional South Indian necklace that is mostly worn by married women. Made up of precious metals, it is worn around the neck and is suspended with the help of a chain.
Temple Lakshmi Haram is actually inspired by nature, religious symbols and mythology for its design.
Kemp Necklace
Kemp necklace is said to have originated from the royal courts of South India and was originally worn by royal women to show their wealth and status. However, kemp necklaces grew in popularity with time and are now worn by women of all classes.
This necklace is made up of gold or silver and is decorated with small beads known as kemps. Kemps or beads could be made up of glass or gemstones or even semi-precious stones.
They can be worn by married women on special occasions and are a popular choice for gifts too.
Guttapusalu Haram
Guttapusalu Haram is a traditional South Indian necklace that contains Guttapusalu or small, black beads. These beads are strung together in a gold or silver chain and are popular on social occasions such as weddings.
Guttapusalu Haram is believed to have originated in Nizam's region of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana during the 10th century.
Papidi Billa / Netrichutti / Nettichutti / Mundale / Mang Tika
These are the names of a traditional South Indian jewellery product that is worn on the head by married women.
It rests on the forehead of the woman, between the two eyes and is one of the most common forms of jewellery among married women. In fact, it is worn by women of all ages and is considered a symbol of beauty, good luck and status.
Gundala Haram
This is a traditional necklace popular in Telugu culture and is made up of gold or silver beads.
Gundala Haram is a combination of two words – Gundala, which means a kind of bead and Haram which means necklace. This is often decorated with small, round pieces of glass and is worn by married women.
Nakshi Haram
Nakshi Haram is also a popular form of necklace in the Telugu culture and is usually around 18 inches long.
The name signifies a kind of decorative necklace and it can be made up of gold or silver with small, round decorative structures. Besides, it can contain flowers, religious patterns and animals for its design.
Palakkamala
Palakkamala is an important part of the Telugu culture and it means green garland. It is a kind of hair ornament worn by married women and the highlight of the ornament is a round piece of green stone in the center.
Earlier, emerald was used as a stone, but now, Palakkamala can contain Jade or Tourmanline as well. It is quite popular in the Telugu culture because it reflects historic and cultural significance.
Mullamottu mala
Mullamottu mala is a popular necklace from Kerala and it has motifs in the shape of jasmine bud attached to a gold chain.
It is usually made of gold and silver and is worn by women at weddings and other auspicious occasions.
South Indian Bride Jewellery Names
It’s important to understand that South India is a collective term for 5 states and bridal jewellery not only varies from state to state but can vary from region to region.
However, some of the most popular types of South Indian jewellery worn mostly by brides and married women are as follows:
Maang Tikka
This is an ornament worn on the forehead by South Indian brides and is normally made up of gold, decorated by pearls, diamonds and other precious stones.
Besides being a symbol of beauty, this is also known to protect the bride from evil spirits, bringing good luck to her.
Mangalsutra
Mangalsutra is the most important form of jewellery in the entire Hindu culture and is actually the identity of a married woman.
In the South Indian culture, it is usually made of gold and has two pendants – one with the sun symbol and the other with a moon symbol. It is believed to represent the special bond between the husband and the wife.
Bangles
Bangles are very popular among women of all ages and hold a special significance among brides and married women.
Bangles are made up of various materials, including gold and silver and are decorated with diamonds, pearls and other precious stones.
Earrings
Earrings are again very popular among women of all ages, but bridal earrings are quite different and highly decorated.
It can be made up of gold, silver and other even platinum. Earrings occur in various types and you can pick them according to your dress or other jewellery.
Necklaces
South Indian brides wear many different kinds of necklaces, varying from chokers that kiss the neck tightly to loose malas that extend below the bosom.
Necklaces enhance the beauty of women and can be made up of gold, silver, pearls, diamond, and other precious stones and, nowadays, you can get imitation necklaces as well. Temple necklaces and haram sets are quite popular among brides.
Toe Rings
Toe rings, like Mangalsutras, are only worn by married women and they are normally made up of silver.
They can contain precious stones embedded on the top and are believed to bring good luck and prosperity to married women.
FAQs
What is a South Indian necklace called?
South Indian necklaces occur in various types and to name a few, you can for necklaces such as:
- Manga Malai
- Kasumalai Vanki
- Temple Lakshmi Haram
- Kemp Necklace
- Guttapusalu Haram
- Gundala Haram
- Nakshi Haram
- Mullamottu Mala
- Butterfly Necklace
- Temple Necklace
- Gota Patti Necklace
- Palla Necklace
- Ram Parivar Haram
These necklaces can vary in terms of the materials they are made up of and their occurrence.
What is the traditional necklace of Tamil Nadu?
Tamil Nadu has some classic South Indian necklaces, including Thaali, another term for mangalsutra (worn by married women). Besides, Tamil Nadu also has Nakshi Haram, Kasumala and Vaddanam as the famous traditional necklaces from the state.
What is mangalsutra called in South India?
Mangalsutra is the most important and essential form of jewellery for a married woman in the Hindu culture and it also represents the eternal bond between a husband and a wife. In South India, mangalsutra is known by various names such as:
- Thali: which means to protect
- Suthikalam: which roughly translates to thread necklace,
- Palladam: which is derived from the word “pallam”, meaning gold
- Thadipala: which is derived from the word thodipolam which means a necklace
Besides this, there could be a lot of other regional names as well for mangalsutra.
What is the name of jewellery in Kerala?
Jewellery from Kerala is very popular in South India and some of the best jewellery products from the state include Thaali – the sacred necklace, Nakshi Haram, Palla Jewellery, Vadanam necklace, Jhumkas, Kundan jewellery, aranmula kannadi, and Kathakali Jewellery etc.
Many of these products resemble ornaments from other states but you can expect such similarity with these states sharing their boundaries.
What is Hyderabadi jewellery called?
Hyderabad is a part of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana and has some popular jewellery products such as Kundan jewellery, Palladam jewellery and Kamarbandhu etc. Besides, even Gota Patti necklace and Palla Jewellery are popular products in Hyderabad.
What is the famous jewellery of Telangana?
Although Telangana is a newly formed state in India, it has some famous jewellery products such as Teeka and Jumar, Necklaces such as Jada Lachcha and Saat Lada, Karan Phool, Chand Baliya, Nath, Tirmani and Jugni etc. Besides, the popular Telangana jewellery among brides includes Saat Lada, Papidi Billa, Poola Jada, Sutrala Golusu and Gundala Haram etc.
What is South Indian bridal head jewellery called?
South Indian brides wear various forms of South Indian jewellery on their heads and these can depend on the state. Some of the popular head jewellery products from South India are Papidi Billa, Netrichutti, Nettichutti, Mundale, Mang Tika or Pottu etc.
What is the jewellery of Andhra Pradesh?
Famous jewellery products from Andhra Pradesh include products such as Papidi Billa, Poola Jada, Sutralu Golusu, Lakshmi Kadiyam, Aravanki, Satlada necklace, Nizami nath, Tirmani and Vadanam etc.
