Gold Jewellery for South Indian Brides: A Guide

Nothing conjures up an image of beauty and opulence more than a bride from southern India. The rich golden hues of the Kanjeevaram sarees and the heavy gold pieces adorning the bride are a sight like nothing else.

Heavily layered gold jewellery is an integral part of the bride’s trousseau. These designs are inspired by the centuries-old rich Indian heritage as seen in their auspicious motifs of gods and goddesses. With changing times, contemporary brides today are mixing these traditional pieces with modern designs to create beautiful looks.

Wondering how to create this look for yourself? Here is a quick guide to help you make the best choices for your big day:

• Nethi Chutti (Maang Tikka): This is one of the must-have pieces that adds amazing grace to a bridal look. You can choose from a single traditional Kemp Nethi Chutti that looks simple and elegant to a three-layered one that covers almost your entire head. What adds to their beauty are the disc-shaped Chandra and Surya pieces that are worn on either side of the parting. These are usually embedded with rubies, diamonds, and pearl clusters.

• Jada (Hair ornaments): The elaborate hair ornament makes a bride look regal and sets her apart from other brides. It covers the braid in its entire length and holds together your hair bun on the top and the Kunjam at the end other end. A pro-tip: embellish this with real flowers such as roses and jasmines and see the magic!

• Rings: No bridal look is complete without finger ring. Depending on your taste, you can explore latest designs of diamond rings or choose ornate ones studded with emeralds or rubies. Want to add a quirky touch while keeping in line with traditions? Opt for a neli, which is a V-shaped vanki ring. Match it with your armband to take your style notches higher.

• Jhimkis (Earrings): Depending on how elaborate your saree and other pieces of jewellery are, you can choose from the vividly coloured peacock or the heritage temple motifs made with gemstones, kundan, and polki. Remember to choose earrings as per your face shape for them to add onto your beauty. Brides with oval-shaped faces can go for any earrings. Those with round faces should opt for longer earrings and ones with square faces should choose round earrings.

• Vanki (Armband): Also known as arm patti, this adds a quirky touch to a bride’s look. Its V-shape design is inspired by the powerful ‘naga’ and is also said to protect the bride from the evil eye. Some of the most popular vanki options are the ones made in floral motifs, temple designs, and peacock motifs. Remember to measure and style your blouse’s sleeve according to the placement of the vanki.

• Haarams (Necklace): These are the most visible part of any bride’s trousseau. Their beauty lies in their intricate design and layers. The most beautiful options include the heavyset mango maala with mango-shaped motifs or the kasu mala (gold coin necklace). The choice of necklace should complement your neckline. If your blouse has a scooped neck, a choker is the best option and a high neckline calls for a long layered necklace.

Whichever pieces you choose, remember to assure yourself about their purity and always look for hallmarks. Investing in jewellery that can be repurposed or is a great idea. Another great idea is to go minimalist with jewellery and look for gold coin offers that are a better future investment. And in the end, don’t get swayed by the trends. Wear what you love and trust us, you will be the prettiest bride ever.