Traditional Kerala Ornaments

Available at www.vadaamalar.com/Kerala Designs

Kerala design ornaments mirror image of the states right heritage and land. The jewelry  patterns having its origin in Kerala's flora and fauna. Kerala’s love for gold dates back to ancient times when Kerala, a rich, thriving land full of spices was frequented by traders from all over the world.

Kerala’s love for gold dates back to ancient times when Kerala, a rich, thriving land full of spices was frequented by traders from all over the world. - See more at: http://blogs.keralatravelcentre.com/2013/all-that-glitters-is-gold-in-kerala/#sthash.QjPe3QYP.dpuf

Floral design pathakam (pendant)

Manga (mango) maala, Kasu (Coin) mala, palaka mala, mulla (Jamine bud) mottu mala, palaka bangles, ealaka (Elachi) mala are some of the distinctive desings of Kerela region.

Mulla mottu mala (Jasmine bud necklace)

The designs of traditional Malayali ornaments have got a huge influence in the modern designs in ornaments worn by Kerala women. Mala is a short chain worn around the neck. Haaram is a longer version of the same design. Jhumki is ear hanging and mattal is ear to hair extensions.

 Available at www.vadaamalar.com/Kerala Designs

Initially these South Indian ornaments were made of pure gold studded with precious gems. The traditional goldsmiths (called Thattans in Malayalam), handcraft the ornaments. Now days advanced machinery and jewellery making technique help produce the same finish. Micro gold plated jewellery with similar finess and designs are available.

Pepper design necklace

Kasu mala  (Coin necklace)

 Kolusu is worn at the ankle. Aranjanam is tied around the waist. Different types of pathakkams are worn on chains. Karimanimala is a combination of gold and black beads.

Kerala style Oosi mala necklace

Available at www.vadaamalar.com/Kerala Designs
 
Bangles called Vala are also worn by most Keralite women. Be it wedding or festival they love to adorn themselves with kada bangles or vala's. These  traditional South Indian bangles are studded with stones or have intricate carved works on them. Enamel design are also in vogue.

Lakshmi vala

bangles or vala

Kappu valaa