Tribal Jewellery in South Indian states is primarily intended to be worn as a form of beautiful adornment also acknowledged as a repository for wealth since antiquity. Tribal jewellery is made of the products that are available locally like bone, wood, clay, shells and crude metal. These jewelleries are not only attractive, but also hold a distinct rustic and earthy charm. It has been observed that tribes of certain region may be scantily clothed, but they still adorn ample amount of jewellery on their bodies.
Tribal Jewellery of Kerala
The ornaments made of palm leaves, wood and many tribal groups of Kerala use beads from wild plants. They make and wear earlobes out of rolled palm leaves, neck ornaments out of beads and bangles from grass.
Tribal Jewellery of Karnataka
Ethnic ornaments found in Karnataka are really beautiful in style with having some religious touch. Tribal jewellery in different tribes carries different meaning. Both men and women of the Bedar tribal community are very fond of jewellery that is made of gold and silver. Konda Kapus tribes are known for their special type of ornaments. The coins take an important part in making their necklaces. Usually 25 paisa and 50 paisa coins are used which are very simple in look.
Tribal Jewellery of Andhra Pradesh
The ornaments for the tribal women of this state are important part of their life. Tribal women use flowers, leaves, creepers and fruits, metal and wood etc. in their jewellery. They also wear various beautiful ornaments and belts that are embellished with shells, metal-mesh, beads and chains. Silver is used in abundance here and all tribal women use silver jewellery with pride and honour. Unique style of Coin necklaces is also very famous here.
Tribal Jewellery of Telangana
Telangana besides being India"s youngest state has a legacy of about 5000 years; the state of Telangana is the representative of the Deccan Plateau and its heritage from times immemorial. There are many types of necklaces, pendants, bracelets, earrings, and other types of tribal jewellery handcrafted and worn by tribes of Telangana.
Tribal Jewellery of Tamil Nadu
Tribes in Tamil Nadu like the Todas, Badagas and Kotas of the Nilgiris district wear silver and other metal jewellery. The ornaments are huge, heavy and intricately carved. Toda jewel pieces are made of bent wires and shells. The Kadar tribe of Annamalai hills have bead jewellery.
