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Draft:Traditional gold jewelry of Kerala

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  • Comment: The LLM-generated content had fictitious references which I have removed. —Alalch E. 13:20, 20 September 2024 (UTC)

Kerala, often referred to as "God's Own Country," has a rich heritage of gold jewelry craftsmanship that has evolved over centuries. Gold holds a deep cultural and religious significance in Kerala, symbolizing wealth, prosperity, and status. Traditional gold ornaments are an integral part of the state's festivals, weddings, and religious ceremonies, often passed down as heirlooms.

Notable designs like the Nagapadam, Palakka mala, and Kasavu mala reflect Kerala’s unique blend of tradition and artistry. The Nagapadam, shaped like a serpent's hood, is a necklace that has been popular among women for generations. The Palakka mala, recognized by its signature green and red stones, signifies auspiciousness and is often worn during festivals like Onam and Vishu.

Gold jewelry also plays a pivotal role in Kerala weddings, where the bride is adorned with various ornaments to symbolize wealth and blessings. In recent years, the designs have evolved, blending traditional patterns with contemporary aesthetics to appeal to modern tastes, though the essence of craftsmanship remains.

Kerala’s gold markets, particularly in Thrissur, known as the "Gold Capital of Kerala," are famous for their wide variety of gold ornaments, making it a hub for jewelry enthusiasts across the country.