Indian jewellery is renowned across the globe for its unique yet diverse designs and patterns. Being an integral part of every woman's wardrobe, it is fascinating to know that jewellery designs and styles vary from one part of the country to another.
Inspired by heritage and culture over time, its importance to Indians, however hasn't diminished. Wherever one may stay and whatever be the occasion, a piece of Indian jewellery is often part of the celebrations!
Be it bangles, earrings, waistbands, rings, anklets, hair accessories, armlets, or nose rings, the range in Indian jewellery is fascinating. Worn both by married and unmarried women, it is interesting to know that the names for jewellery and the designs and styles often differ in different states of India.
Among the various styles, South Indian jewellery enjoys a special place. These ornaments are perfect for every occasion. Be it a festival, religious event, or a party. Women decked up in these Indian antique jewelry pieces of jewellery always look elegant and sophisticated.
Mangal Sutra
The holy neckpiece is the depiction and a symbol of honor of an Indian married woman. The amulet consists of black beads on the chain that protects the couple from any negative energy. The engravings on the pendant with motifs of peacocks, leaves, and flowers add a unique charm to the jewellery. According to history, the origin of the Mangal sutra is South India. But gradually, it became prominent in other parts of India too. It is known by various names in different states of South India, like Thaali or Thirumangalayam (Tamil region), Elagu Thaali or Ela (Kerela), Pustelu, Mangalasutramu, Ramar, Bottu, and Thaali (in Telu
Bangles
The bangles, made with fine artistry, have a diversification of designs and sizes. Crafted exquisitely with various motifs on a gold-plated base, these come in a pair. Bangles appealingly enhance the look of your wrists and are ideal for every ethnic wear. Thus, they are suitable for both festivities and casual wear. Some of the colloquial names for them are gujju, bale, and valayal.
Armlet
One of the prime pieces of jewellery in South India, the armlet (vanki) epitomizes power and strength. Intricately crafted on antique and gold plates, a pair of Vanki is perfectly symmetric and enhances the beauty of your arm. Deity Lakshmi is etched on it along with the magnificent motifs of flowers, animals, and birds, such as parrots, peacocks, crocodiles, and elephants. Traditionally a bride wears it and is occasionally worn by women on auspicious days.
Earrings
Another most preferred piece of jewellery among all the women are earrings. They have an extensive array of collections, starting from studs to Jhumkas. You name it you; you get it. A pair of earrings is something that goes with both western and traditional outfits. Jhumkas are the most popular in South India and usually stand out with their signature bell shape. The artistic approach towards each set of jhumka is striking and coveted. Different flowers, bird motifs, and temple designs are inscribed in a traditional jhumka that gives a classic charm to your appearance. Some of the other names for the jhumkas are Olai, Kuzhai, Lolakku, Maattal and Makara.
Waist Belts
As we come across the South Indian ornaments, waistbands (vaddanam, oddiyanam) are worn by women of every age group. They hold your saree graciously and also helps in enhancing your figure. Most of the waist belts are carved with temple designs from ancient mythology and embody Goddess Lakshmi in the center with elephants and peacock motifs on either side. They are available in both heavy and light patterns depending upon the kind of occasion. It is perfect to wear with sarees and lehengas.
There are different waist belts for kids and women and are called by distinct names-
Aranjanam: It is worn by the children and said to protect them from evil spirits. Besides, it evaluates the growth of the infants.
Vaddanam: Worn by the women on special occasions, a vaddanam is a requisite part of South Indian jewellery.
Maang Tika
Known as Nethi Chutti or Papidi Cherui in South India, the ornament consists of a chain and a pendant. Usually worn by a bride on the forehead, it takes influence from a head harness. It holds great cultural and religious value and is often regarded as the third eye in Indian mythology. The maang tika comes in different motifs, shapes, and sizes.
Anklet
Anklets, also known as Pattilu in Telugu, signify the warm welcome of Goddess Lakshmi in a household. For ages, it has been a vital part of women's adornment and adds a distinctive charm. From infants to older women, everyone wears it. Usually, there are beads attached to anklets, but nowadays, an immense variety of designs are available. We at Tarinika bring you an exquisite design of anklets with bird motifs carved on coins. Apart from that, our collection includes both occasional and regular anklets.
For more information on choosing or finding the right fit, come and explore the stunning craftsmanship of jewellery on www.tarinika.com.
