Manga Malai
A South Indian necklace of mango-shaped motifs, the paisley form that recurs throughout Indian design.
The mango, or manga, is a fertility and prosperity symbol, and a row of them makes one of the most recognisable temple necklaces.
Each mango is usually set with red and green stones, and the row is often finished with a larger central pendant.
Pearls are strung between the motifs or hung as drops beneath them.
When you are buying
Look at how the mangoes are hinged. Individually linked motifs follow the neckline; a rigid row stands away from it and sits awkwardly.
Temple-style necklaces
A few from the collection, from ₹2,800.
Elegant Semi-Round White Pearls Necklace With Lakshmi Kaasu & SP Emerald Beads
Lovely Semi-Round White Pearls Necklace With Lakshmi Kaasu & SP Ruby Beads
Elegant 4.5mm Round White Pearls Necklace With Raam Darbar Kaasu Pendant
Radiant 4mm Round White Pearls Necklace With Lakshmi Kaasu & SP Ruby Beads
Elegant White Pearls Necklace With Timeless AD Pendant
Beautiful White Pearls Necklace With Traditional AD Pendant
Beautiful Traditional Pearl Necklace in Rubies
Simple and Traditional Pearl Set in Stylish Pendant
Kasu Malai
A necklace strung with rows of coins, usually stamped with Lakshmi. Kasu means coin in Tamil.
Temple Jewellery
South Indian jewellery in a deity and motif vocabulary, originally made to adorn temple idols and now worn by dancers and brides.
Addigai
A close-fitting South Indian choker, densely stone-set and curved to follow the base of the neck.
Rani Haar
A long, elaborate necklace worn below a choker, reaching the chest or stomach. The centrepiece of a bridal set.