Kerala's temple jewellery craft produces the elaborate gold-plated ornaments worn by classical dancers performing Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, as well as decorative pieces used to adorn temple deities. The jewellery typically uses a copper or brass base plated in gold, set with coloured glass stones and finished with fine filigree-style detailing.
These ornaments are designed not just for aesthetic appeal but to complement the exaggerated visual language of Kerala's classical dance forms, with bold, symmetrical designs that read clearly on stage. The craft is closely tied to Kerala's performing arts institutions and temple traditions, sustaining specialist jewellery workshops in the state.
How It Is Made
Artisans begin by shaping a copper or brass base into the required ornament form, often using moulds for repeated designs such as crowns, necklaces and armlets. The base is then electroplated with gold or gilded using traditional techniques, followed by the setting of coloured glass stones and beads.
- Base metal, usually copper or brass, is cut and shaped into the ornament form
- Gold plating is applied through electroplating or traditional gilding methods
- Coloured glass stones and beads are set into the design by hand
- Finishing includes polishing and quality checks on stone settings
Elaborate dance crowns and full jewellery sets can take considerable time to complete due to the number of individual pieces involved.
Link to Kerala's Classical Dance Traditions
Temple jewellery craft developed alongside Kerala's classical dance forms, particularly Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, which require specific ornamentation as part of their costume and character presentation. Institutions such as Kerala Kalamandalam have helped standardise and preserve traditional jewellery designs used in performances.
- Jewellery designs are often specific to particular dance characters and roles
- Workshops producing this jewellery are often located near dance training institutions
- The style has also been adapted for bridal and festive wear beyond stage costumes
This connection to performing arts keeps demand for the craft steady among dance schools, performers and cultural institutions.
Where to See and Buy Jewelry Craft
Workshops producing temple and dance jewellery are found around Thiruvananthapuram, often linked informally to dance training centres. Government emporiums such as SMSM Institute and Surabhi outlets also sell ready-made pieces suited for festive or bridal wear.
- Ask whether the plating is gold electroplate or base metal only, as this affects both price and longevity
- Check stone settings for secure fixing, especially on pieces meant for stage use
- Custom orders for dance costumes are best placed through workshops linked to established dance schools
Traveller Tips
- Clarify whether the piece is gold electroplated or simply painted, as this affects durability and price
- For stage-use jewellery, check that stone settings are secure to withstand movement during performance
- Store gold-plated ornaments away from moisture to prevent tarnishing
- Order custom dance jewellery through workshops linked to recognised dance institutions for accuracy
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kerala temple jewellery made from?
It is typically made from a copper or brass base with gold plating and set with coloured glass stones.
Which dance forms use this jewellery?
It is primarily made for Kathakali and Mohiniyattam performers, though styles have also been adapted for bridal wear.
Is the gold plating permanent?
Gold electroplating can wear over time with heavy use, so pieces used frequently for performances may need periodic replating.
Where can I get authentic Kerala dance jewellery made?
Workshops near Thiruvananthapuram linked to classical dance institutions, along with government emporiums, are reliable sources.
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