Indian jewelry art is at times divided into three kinds - temple jewelry, spiritual jewelry and bridal jewelry. Temple jewelry of India initially used to be described as the jewelry used to adorn the idols of Gods and Goddesses. The statues In India were ornamented with chunky necklaces that were either strung with beads or crafted with intricate filigree. Amongst the other ornaments that adorned statues of deities were large chunky bangles, usually studded with gems. In addition, earrings, nose rings and anklets were also used.
The jewelry used to adorn the idols was later worn by temple dancers
and slowly, the designs became a part of the Indian woman's bridal
jewelry trousseau. Though the idols continued to be decorated with
jewelry, a practice seen even today, the jewelry of Indian women also
came be made on the pattern. Today, temple jewellery has become open of
the most popular crafts of India. During festivals and occasions of
worship of Gods, women wear temple jewelry, believed to be auspicious
and offer good luck.
Jewelry items like pendants, bracelets, belts and brooches based on
temple jewelry are very popular amongst women, during auspicious times,
and wearing these is believed to bring fortuity to the person. The
favorite design for pendants is that of Ganesha - the elephant headed
god known to bestow good luck and good fortune. The other emblem, which
is also, very much in demand, is that of the sacred syllable OM. These
days, the temple jewelry of India is finding a flavor amongst foreigners