If you thought traditional South Indian temple jewellery was only meant for the blushing bride or only as adornment for the dancer, it may be time to revise your notions about this extremely versatile and popular form of jewellery. Check out Aabharanam, an online store offering a range of designs, colours and styles to accessorise every saree you may have put aside to wear for a wedding or Marghazi season. Specialising in imitation and original kemp stone jewellery, you can find a variety of classical as well as original, contemporary designs here.
We love their chokers featuring blue, green, pink and black beads interspersed with little kemp pieces. Aabharanam's Anagha collection has kemp stones studded in rudraksha-reminiscent balls – dramatic and bold. The guttapoosalu, though not technically temple jewellery, is also replicated – dressy and eye-catching, it makes the perfect accessory if you’re attending a wedding.
The brand looks to reinvent temple jewellery with its creative intervention and innovation. It plays around with traditional Lakshmi kaasu or coins, kemp beads, the quintessential kemp pendants and semi-precious stones of various hues. Also on offer are the classical addigais in real kemp stones in blue and the all-time favourite maroon. Original kemp also accompanies strings of pearl for a richer, festive look. Aabharanam also enjoys working with client’s older pieces – your mother’s or grandmother’s kemp pendant, for example, can be revamped with a black thread choker for a modern, contemporary twist. Prices start from INR 650 for necklaces and INR 250 for earrings.
