Temple jewellery, deity or nakshi jewellery, and bridal jewellery are distinct categories of Indian jewellery. Temple jewellery was once used to ornament the idols of Indian deities, gods, and goddesses, as the name suggests. The tradition of worshipping gods with heavy gold jewellery is still practised in Indian temples. Bangles, earrings, necklaces, waist belts, nose rings, and anklets are some of the ornaments that make up these finely created, large pieces of jewellery.
Later on, though, temple dancers, classical dancers, and nobility wore this jewellery. With its rich beauty, it has recently been more popular in the fashion world.
Temple jewellery has a rich history:
Temple jewellery is thought to have begun during the Chola dynasty's rule in the 9th century. All of the Chola rulers valued cultural growth, and much temple jewellery today is modelled after the patterns found in many South Indian temples, particularly those in Thanjavur, which have lavishly adorned pillars with precise detailing and richly sculpted walls. The name comes from the fact that this type of jewellery was once used to embellish idols and Gods and Goddesses in temples.
Gold is the most common foundation, but silver and other metals are also obtainable and are less expensive. To give them a classic appearance, temple jewellery is decorated with precious and semi-precious jewels and pearls. Polki and Kundan stones, which are common in North Indian jewellery, are also used to adorn them. Swans, peacocks, lotus flowers, gods and goddesses, royal figures, and other themes are among the designs and motifs available. From small nose rings to large bulky necklaces, there's something for everyone. Armlets, head adornments, anklets, waist belts, and nose rings are all worn on occasions.
Temple Jewellery Types:
Here's a rundown of some of the most prominent temple jewellery ornaments:
Necklaces and chokers:
Temple necklaces and chokers are common decorations used by ladies to accentuate the elegance of their necks and add glitz to celebratory events.
Necklaces and chokers are adorned with a variety of precious and semi-precious gemstones and pearls. In Hindu mythology, this jewellery also represents Goddess Lakshmi, who is the incarnation of prosperity.
Haram Temple Jewellery:
Temple chains are the most common temple jewellery decorations, and they are mostly used to enhance a woman's beauty. These chains come in a variety of lengths to suit your demands and the effect you want to achieve with your outfit. To enhance the brightness of the temple chains, various precious jewels like pearls, kemps, and rubies are employed. In South India, long chains are called harams, and some of the designs used to enhance their beauty include strings of gold coins, flowers, rudraksha stones, and Hindu deity figures.
Waist Bands from Temple Jewellery:
These temple jewels are primarily worn by traditional dancers and brides to enhance their beauty and give their celestial looks. Temple waist belts and hip chains are encrusted with gemstones and embellished with small bells or trinkets to enhance their magnificent appeal. They are made in gold or gold-glazed metal.
Armlets from Temple Jewellery:
Temple armlets have been a status symbol for brides who wear them at their weddings. It is offered as standard armlets that may be attached to the arms or as armlets with strings that can be tied around the arms.
These armlets are designed in the shape of a temple sanctum, with Goddess Lakshmi usually positioned in the middle to give the design an exquisite look.
Hair Accessories by Temple Jewellery:
Temple hair accessories are gold-plated silver encrusted with kemp stones, pearls, and other semi-precious stones to provide traditional dancers with a traditional appeal and extraordinary grace. It's also worn by brides to give their appearance a divine look. From the top of the forehead to the tip of the plait, these hair ornaments are tied.
Toe-rings from Temple Jewellery:
Temple and toe rings come in a variety of styles encrusted with precious and semi-precious jewels. The use of god or goddess figurines as a centrepiece has become increasingly popular in recent decades. These rings are meticulously designed to give the jewellery a gorgeous appearance and make it appealing. Toe rings are typically made of silver and are worn by women in their toes, as the name implies.
What Is the Best Way to Wear Temple Jewelry?
It's mostly utilised at weddings. Jhumkas and kamarbandha are popular choices. Temple jewellery complements Indian attire such as saris, ghagra cholis, and salwar kameez. By establishing a precise balance between traditional and contemporary designs, you can be a little more creative. In the market, there are pendants, necklaces, armbands, haath phools, and earrings. If you don't want to try anything substantial, go for lighter options. When going for a wholly western look, it's a good idea to incorporate some ethnic elements. What better way to express yourself than with some temple-inspired jhumkis or rings? Wear light temple necklaces over a flowing linen dress for a formal lunch and you'll be ready to make an impression.
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