Introduction
India has long been synonymous with intricate, artistic jewellery that reflects its rich cultural heritage. From temple jewellery that speaks of devotion and tradition to bridal jewellery that symbolizes prosperity, Indian jewellers have mastered the art of crafting pieces that are both timeless and elegant. Over the centuries, the tradition of jewellery making in India has evolved, yet the essence of the craftsmanship remains rooted in centuries-old techniques. This blog post delves into some of the most renowned jewellers in India, celebrated for their excellence in traditional and temple jewellery.
1. NAC Jewellers (Chennai)
NAC Jewellers, established over a century ago, is a household name in Tamil Nadu, particularly for its outstanding temple jewellery. Temple jewellery, traditionally worn by classical Bharatanatyam dancers and deities, is known for its use of pure gold, rubies, and emeralds. NAC Jewellers continues this ancient tradition by crafting pieces that reflect the grandeur of Indian temples.
Their expertise lies in creating intricate designs of peacocks, lotuses, and other motifs inspired by temple architecture. Their jewellery showcases traditional craftsmanship but with a modern touch, making it appealing not only for dancers but also for brides and connoisseurs of fine jewellery.
2. GRT Jewellers (Chennai)
GRT Jewellers has earned a reputation for its exquisite craftsmanship in temple and bridal jewellery, becoming one of the leading jewellers in South India. Established in 1964 by G. Rajendran, GRT is known for creating masterpieces that reflect Indian tradition and grandeur. Their temple jewellery collection is particularly famous for its intricate carvings, often depicting gods and goddesses in detailed gold work, with precious stones adding a touch of elegance.
Apart from temple jewellery, GRT is also known for its elaborate bridal collections, where the traditional motifs are enhanced by contemporary styles, ensuring a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. Their jewellery ranges from heavy, elaborate pieces for weddings to elegant, simpler designs suitable for everyday wear.
3. Tanishq (Nationwide)
A brand by the Tata Group, Tanishq has become a symbol of trust and quality in the Indian jewellery industry. While it caters to a broad audience with modern and minimalist designs, Tanishq has an impressive collection of traditional Indian jewellery, including temple jewellery. Their ‘Rivaah’ bridal collection, in particular, draws inspiration from traditional Indian styles across regions, from Tamil Nadu’s temple jewellery to the intricate designs from Rajasthan and Gujarat.
Tanishq’s temple jewellery collection incorporates divine motifs, often designed for auspicious occasions. The jeweller is also known for its impeccable craftsmanship, creating pieces that are both classic and contemporary. With its emphasis on purity and quality, Tanishq offers a range of traditional pieces that cater to every taste and occasion.
4. Malabar Gold & Diamonds (Kozhikode, Kerala)
Founded in 1993, Malabar Gold & Diamonds has quickly risen to become one of the largest jewellery retailers in India. Known for its vast collection of traditional Indian jewellery, the brand is particularly famous for its temple jewellery and bridal sets. Their temple jewellery often features divine motifs and intricate goldwork, inspired by Kerala’s temples and their intricate architecture.
Malabar’s artisans are masters of crafting traditional pieces with detailed filigree work, often incorporating uncut diamonds, rubies, and emeralds. Their bridal collections are lavish and designed to reflect the splendor of Indian weddings, making Malabar a go-to destination for brides seeking a touch of tradition in their wedding attire.
5. Kalyan Jewellers (Nationwide)
Kalyan Jewellers, one of the largest jewellery chains in India, is known for its traditional Indian jewellery collections. Their temple jewellery collection is especially popular, characterized by the use of classic motifs like deities, floral patterns, and auspicious symbols. Kalyan Jewellers’ pieces are known for their opulence, crafted using gold and precious stones like diamonds, rubies, and emeralds.
Kalyan also offers regional bridal collections, ensuring that brides from different parts of India can find jewellery that resonates with their cultural traditions. Their attention to detail and craftsmanship have made Kalyan a trusted name for traditional jewellery lovers.
6. Bhima Jewellers (Kerala)
Established in 1925, Bhima Jewellers is one of the oldest and most respected names in the Indian jewellery industry, especially in Kerala. They are known for their mastery in crafting traditional Kerala-style temple jewellery. Their collections are heavily inspired by the jewellery worn by deities in temples and classical dancers, characterized by the use of gold, rubies, and emeralds.
Bhima Jewellers’ traditional collections focus on creating timeless pieces that are perfect for weddings and religious occasions. Their temple jewellery often reflects motifs such as serpents, swans, and other sacred symbols, making their pieces popular among classical dancers and temple-goers alike.
7. Amrapali Jewels (Jaipur)
Amrapali Jewels, based in Jaipur, is famous for its traditional and tribal jewellery, with a focus on Indian heritage. Known for their magnificent craftsmanship and use of precious stones, Amrapali’s collections celebrate the cultural diversity of India. Their temple jewellery is inspired by the artistic traditions of Rajasthan, with designs that incorporate elements of royal heritage.
Amrapali also specializes in antique jewellery, and their pieces are often reminiscent of India’s regal past. For those looking for traditional Indian jewellery with a touch of grandeur and history, Amrapali Jewels offers an unmatched selection.
8. Krisp Jewels (Coimbatore)
Krisp Jewels is known for its elegant and artistic collection of traditional Indian jewellery, with a special emphasis on temple jewellery. Their designs are often inspired by the sculptural beauty of South Indian temples, incorporating intricate motifs of gods, goddesses, and sacred animals.
Krisp Jewels’ temple jewellery is often adorned with vibrant rubies, emeralds, and pearls, staying true to the traditional style, yet with a modern interpretation. Their pieces are highly popular among classical dancers and are often worn for weddings and religious ceremonies.
9. P. N. Gadgil Jewellers (Pune)
P. N. Gadgil Jewellers is one of the most reputed jewellers in India, known for its heritage and classic designs. Established over 180 years ago, this brand is renowned for its collection of Maharashtrian-style jewellery, including the traditional ‘Nath’ nose rings and temple jewellery. Their temple jewellery collection features designs that draw inspiration from Peshwa-era aesthetics, blending heritage with artistic brilliance.
P. N. Gadgil’s designs also cater to the modern bride who desires a blend of tradition and contemporary elegance. Their craftsmanship reflects an intricate attention to detail, making each piece a work of art.
10. Mehta Jewellers (Mumbai)
Mehta Jewellers has been crafting traditional Indian jewellery for decades, with a special focus on temple jewellery and bridal collections. Based in Mumbai, they are known for their signature style, which combines contemporary artistry with traditional motifs. Their temple jewellery is characterized by delicate craftsmanship and the use of 22K gold, often adorned with rubies and emeralds.
Mehta Jewellers are also highly sought after for their bridal jewellery collections, which are elaborate and rooted in traditional designs, making them ideal for weddings and special occasions.
Conclusion
India’s renowned jewellers have played a pivotal role in preserving the country’s rich tradition of jewellery making, while also adapting to the tastes of modern connoisseurs. Whether it is the divine temple jewellery of the South or the regal designs of the North, these jewellers have ensured that the legacy of Indian craftsmanship continues to thrive. Their dedication to quality, attention to detail, and reverence for tradition have made them the custodians of India’s jewellery heritage, keeping the essence of Indian artistry alive for future generations.
