A Simple Guide to Different Traditional Gold Necklace Designs in Kerala

Kerala is known for its rich cultural heritage and exquisite gold jewellery, particularly the traditional necklace designs. These neckpieces that you can acquire from Kerala showcase the intricate craftsmanship that is passed down through generations. From the iconic Manga Mala to the elegance of Lakshmi Mala, each necklace you choose to wear tells a story of devotion, prosperity and beauty. Some of these transitional necklaces often feature delicate filigree work, meticulous enamel detailing and auspicious motifs, all deeply rooted in the culture of Kerala. 

 

This blog will take you into how much Keralites take pride in preserving these age-old designs and also in infusing them with some contemporary elegance. Whether you are a bride-to-be seeking perfect wedding jewellery or a connoisseur of fine craftsmanship, the details in this blog offer a golden thread connecting Kerala’s past to its present. 

 

Significance of Traditional Jewellery in Kerala’s Cultural Identity

 

Kerala, with its rich cultural heritage, has a set of traditional jewellery that everyone keeps close to their heart. These adornments are considered more than mere accessories; they are an integral part of a state’s cultural identity. The significance of traditional jewellery in Kerala is as follows: 

 

• Religious Symbolism

 

Religious significance can be found in many traditional jewellery pieces, which frequently represent deities or spiritual concepts. According to Hindu tradition, the "thali," a gold pendant worn by married women, is a sign of happiness in marriage.

 

• Social Status

 

In the past, a woman's social standing was frequently reflected by the kind and quantity of jewellery she wore. High-status and wealthy families would pass down heritage jewellery from one generation to the next. 

 

• Beauty and Ornamentation 

 

Traditional Kerala jewellery is known for its unique and intricate designs with exquisite craftsmanship. The addition of silver and other precious stones to this traditional jewellery adds allure. 

 

• Cultural Identity

 

Wearing traditional jewellery pieces of Kerala helps in preserving the rich cultural heritage of Kerala. It can be considered as one way of connecting ancestors and traditions. 

 

• Special Occasions

 

Traditional jewellery is commonly worn during weddings, festivals, and other special events. These classic pieces serve as a sign of celebration and add to the festive mood.

 

Types of Gold Traditional Necklace Designs in Kerala

 

The rich cultural heritage in Kerala is quite visible in the stunning traditional jewellery collection. Most of these golden necklaces have been passed down through generations. These designs are cherished for their exquisite craftsmanship and timeless appeal. 

 

Here are some of the most popular types of gold traditional necklace designs in Kerala:    

 

• Pichimottu Mala

 

Pichimottu Mala is a quite popular design and it is a delicate and elegant piece of jewellery. Pichi is a variant of jasmine and this Mala is a collection of pichimottu that symbolises purity and beauty. This can be beautifully worn with sarees for special occasions, which makes them a beloved choice of women across Kerala. 

  

• Palakka Mala

 

One of the favourite and desired traditional neckpieces of women in Kerala is the Palakka Mala. The green colour of the Palakka Mala is a representation of the green nature of the state. Now, palakka necklaces are also available in violet, pink, red, blue, pink and many other hues. Moreover, this traditional gold necklace is available in different forms, including palakka long harams, chokers, bangles and earrings. Palakka also comes in various shapes, including pulinakham (tiger-claw), manga (mango), fusions and much more. 

 

• Mullamottu Mala

 

 

Jasmine flowers have huge significance in South Indian states and every customary function includes jasmine. This gold necklace is highly favoured in Kerala among women, especially brides. This traditional gold necklace design is considered an heirloom, which every bride gets from her grandmother. The designs in the Pichimottu Mala take on an elongated shape, while the motifs in the Mullamottu Mala are somewhat rounded and resemble jasmine buds.   

 

• Manga Mala

 

Manga Mala is quite famous for its traditional bridal trousseau. Mango-shaped beads and lockets are used in Manga Mala, and they are artfully combined to give the piece a unique appearance. These gold necklaces for women are popular among ladies as they can improve their entire appearance unlike any other. The manga motif of the traditional necklace is also said to be a symbol of fertility and prosperity, and it is commonly found in sets of necklaces worn by women at weddings.

 

• Elakkathali

 

Elakkathali is a choker neckpiece and as the name implies, it moves with every movement. The design of this traditional necklace is quite mesmerising and can reflect the light beautifully and create an illusion of shine. Wearing this traditional necklace close to your neck makes your entire appearance sophisticated and elegant. Apart from bridal wear, Elakkathali has a special place in the cultural heritage of Kerala and is worn during the performance of Mohiniyattam, the classical dance in Kerala. This antique necklace piece infuses a modern feel to the wedding and necklaces like these are much favoured by Christian brides.

 

• Kasu Mala

 

Most gold necklaces have a close connection with the culture and rich heritage of Kerala but Kasu Mala is closer than any other necklaces for their popularity and classic beauty. The term Kasu Mala is derived from Malayalam, where kasu means coins and Mala means necklace. The design of this neckpiece is where small coins are collected to contribute to its unique charm and allure with the engravings of deities of symbolic motifs. It is considered the symbol of power and prosperity and was worn mostly by Namboothiri and Nair women in Kerala. It is one of the prominent gold necklaces in the bridal trousseau among Kerala brides.  

 

• Nagapadam Mala

 

Serpent worship has a long history in Kerala’s religious customs. The Nagapadam Mala, with its pattern of a snake's head, is a reflection of this cultural importance. Its inlay design is similar to the customarily made gold Palakka Mala. Nagapadam Mala and Nagapada Thali are still popular among Kerala's traditional jewellery. The Ottakal Nagapadam Mala, or Nagapada Thali, is a design that embodies simplicity and elegance. It consists of a single gold pendant connected to a fine chain.

 

• Pulinakha Mala

 

Pulinakha Mala or tiger claw necklace, is one of the most popular traditional ornaments in Kerala. The pendants in the design of Pulinakha were worn by warriors during the early times. With the inspiration from these pendants, Pulinakha Chokers were made with exquisite workmanship. Traditionally, this necklace symbolises power and protection and it can be worn on special occasions too. 

 

• Karimani Mala

 

Karimani Mala is a combination of gold and black beads that are strung together in a particular design. These gold necklaces are worn by married women as a symbol of their marriage. Some women wear this as an alternative to thali chains. This traditional golden necklace symbolises protection and good fortune. 

 

• Sarapoli Mala

 

Sarapoli Mala, a traditional gold necklace from Kerala, is recognised for its simplistic design. It's rather typical in your mom's or grandmother's jewellery collections. The Sarapoli Mala is a gorgeous necklace that is made up of leaf-like patterns with a vertical fold in the centre that is put in a choker or long chain setting. These antique necklaces stand for Kerala's rich cultural legacy and purity. It's a multipurpose piece of jewellery that works great for weddings and other formal events. This neckpiece will make the wearer appear more put-together and elegant overall.  

    

• Poothali Mala

 

Poothali is the combination of two Malayalam words meaning poo and thali. Poo means flower and thali means pendant. The necklace has floral designs all over the surface, which shows its connection to nature. Poothali Mala is crafted using rectangular pieces that are intricately sculpted with flowers and leaves. There are variants to these Poothali Malas, including Thamara Poothali and Kattapoothali. This one is worn during special occasions, including weddings, festivals and religious ceremonies. 

 

• Chandraminni

 

Chandraminni necklaces are quite popular traditional necklace designs in Kerala, showcasing slim and sleek crescent moon shapes crafted in gold. In the traditional jewellery repertoire, necklace designs like Chandraminni hold a special place. The crescent moon shape of the Chandraminni necklace symbolises the waxing and waning phases of the moon, lending a sense of mystique and beauty to the design. Some variations of the Chandraminni necklace are adorned with rubies, diamonds and other stones to bring allure and sparkle to the entire appearance. Moreover, this neckpiece embodies sentiments of love, commitment and prosperity, and the crescent moon in the necklace represents the eternal bond between partners and is believed to bring good luck and blessings to the wearer. 

 

 

• Mani Mala

 

The Mani Mala, also known as the "ball chain necklace," is a popular Kerala gold decoration composed of small spherical beads strung together in a garland-like arrangement. This versatile necklace, which lends classic elegance to women's clothing as an everyday accessory, is a common sight in many homes. The Mani Mala accommodates a range of tastes, coming in several lengths and styles, including single and multi-layered designs. Its wearability and cultural significance have solidified its place as a mainstay in Kerala's jewellery heritage, combining functionality and classic charm in one worn piece.

 

• Avil Mala

 

The Avil Mala necklace, with its unique beads that resemble flattened rice, is a stunning example of Kerala's meticulous jewellery artistry. This shorter necklace features pieces that are elongated and resemble petals, with a little upward tilt and central contour. The design of the artwork is inspired by rice, a symbol of health and prosperity in the Keralan tradition, giving it additional significance beyond its visual appeal. The Avil Mala is a highly valued ornament for special occasions since it symbolises wealth and well-being. This necklace becomes an exquisite depiction of the rich cultural legacy and artisanal skill of the region when worn with a traditional Kerala saree.

 

• Kashali Mala

 

A variation on the Kasu Mala, the Kashali Mala has separate, non-overlapping coins with Lakshmi designs. In the Namboothiri culture, this necklace is particularly significant since it represents wealth and spiritual meaning. With each coin displayed separately and strung with gold thread, the painstaking craftsmanship is highlighted in its design. Some versions may feature Ganapathy motifs alongside imagery of Lakshmi. The Kashali Mala's distinctive design highlights the brilliance of each coin, creating a visually appealing piece. It is a treasured accessory, especially among Namboothiri ladies, because of its creative execution and cultural significance. It embodies Kerala's jewellery heritage tradition and elegance.

 

• Gothambumani Mala

 

The Gothambumani Mala, a popular Kerala jewellery piece, is made of gold links that look like wheat grains. Its delicate design, which may be worn in single or several layers, enhances the wearer's neck. This exquisite necklace has cultural significance and is frequently worn by women at festivals and weddings. Considered auspicious, it represents wealth. Kerala's rich goldsmithing heritage is embodied in the Gothambumani Mala, which is painstakingly crafted with exquisite attention to detail. Its popularity goes beyond Kerala; Kannadiga brides in southern Karnataka wear a similar pattern called Godhisara. The necklace is a prized addition to traditional Kerala clothing because of its elegant shape and cultural importance.

 

• Pathakkam

 

The Pathakkam, a circular pendant chain, is a must-have item of jewellery for a Malayali bride. This adaptable jewellery, which comes in plain gold or with stone settings, may be worn on its own and yet draw attention. A common design on its pendant is Goddess Lakshmi, who represents wealth. The Pathakkam is a classic and treasured piece of jewellery in Kerala wedding customs. Its elegance is found in its simplicity, usually embellished with jewels or diamonds.

 

• Moonizhamani Mala

 

A precious traditional necklace from Kerala, the Moonizhamani Mala has three well-wrought gold strands. Married Namboothiri women prefer it for its fine workmanship, which includes stacked gold beads and intricate embellishments. A ruby inlay provides vivid contrast, and the longest layer frequently features a pendant in the shape of a bodhi leaf. This graceful piece is often paired with a gemstone-encrusted mogra (jasmine) locket, which amplifies its visual appeal and cultural significance.

 

• Lakshmi Mala

 

 

The Lakshmi Mala is a necklace quite popular in Kerala Hindu weddings and is made of several gold coins with a picture of Goddess Lakshmi on them. This antique piece of jewellery is the representation of wealth, success and divine benefits for the newlyweds and has great cultural and spiritual significance. Lakshmi in the Mala represents fortune and the coins in this neckpiece are created with excellent craftsmanship. This gold necklace for women is quite common not only at weddings but also in other celebrations.

More than elegance, this jewellery set is a perfect example of traditional craftsmanship and devotion to the beautiful feminine force of Lakshmi. This is often matched with Lakshmi bangles and earrings and it has the power to invite abundance and good fortune into the life of the wearer. 

 

Kerala Jewellery in Festivals and Weddings

 

Gold and the cultural life of Kerala are quite interconnected. No festivals and celebrations are complete without the gold and the jewellery made from them. The traditional gold jewellery symbolises wealth, prosperity and heritage, and these rich gold necklaces are often traditional heirlooms that represent the artistic legacy of the region. 

 

For a special occasion, women love to adorn themselves with intricate gold necklaces, including Pichimottu Mala, Palakka Mala and Kasu Mala. These traditional pieces are not just fashion statements but have deep cultural resonance.  

 

Weddings and Other Celebrations

 

Weddings in Kerala are grand celebrations during which gold jewellery, particularly necklaces, takes centre stage. The bride’s jewellery is an essential part of the wedding ceremony, symbolising beauty, wealth and status. The most popular necklaces for women include Sarapoli Mala, Poothali Mala, and Lakshmi Mala, all known for their elaborate designs and intricate craftsmanship.    

 

Other than weddings, there are celebrations such as naming ceremonies, housewarmings, Onam, and Vishu that also involve the adornment of traditional gold jewellery. For all these celebrations, women wear different styles of necklaces, all representing the unique aspect of the celebration.   

 

Adorn Yourself with Statement Gold Necklaces for Women from Joyalukkas

 

As we conclude, you get to know that the traditional gold necklace designs from Kerala offer a glimpse into the state’s rich cultural heritage. All the intricate designs, from  Pichimottu Mala to the elegant Palakka Mala, are much more than adornments. They are considered symbols of tradition, beauty and cultural identity. By preserving and promoting these timeless creations, we can ensure that the legacy of Kerala’s jewellery continues to inspire and captivate future generations.  

 

Joyalukkas’s women's collection includes earrings, pendants, rings, nosepins, bangles & bracelets, chains, jewellery sets, and mangalsutra. One of the best online jewellery shopping sites in India, we have curated sections of women’s jewellery collections. 

 

Explore our extensive range conveniently from the comfort of your home. Get benefits from our express delivery service, ensuring your chosen piece of jewellery reaches you promptly and securely. With over 160 showrooms worldwide, Joyalukkas is committed to providing exceptional customer service and satisfaction. Enjoy peace of mind with our 14-day return policy, which allows you to exchange or return your purchase if it doesn't meet your expectations. Visit our online or physical platforms and make your traditional gold necklaces for women today.