Jewellery has always been more than just an accessory for women; it’s a reflection of culture, tradition, and personal style. Among the many forms of Indian artificial jewellery, two styles stand out for their beauty and heritage: Temple Jewellery and Kundan Jewellery.
Both are timeless, yet they carry very different aesthetics. Temple jewellery speaks of divine traditions rooted in the South, while Kundan jewellery reflects regal elegance from Rajasthan and Mughal courts. If you’ve ever wondered which one suits you best, this guide will help you decide.
What is Temple Jewellery?
Temple jewellery has its origins in South Indian temples, where it was once crafted in pure gold and adorned on idols of deities. Over the centuries, it became a beloved style for classical dancers and brides who wanted to radiate a goddess-like aura.
- Design Features: Temple jewellery is known for its bold look. Expect intricate carvings of gods, goddesses, lotus motifs, and coins. It’s usually plated in antique gold, giving it a rich, traditional feel.
- Materials Used: Today, artificial temple jewellery is made with high-quality imitation gold plating, pearls, rubies, emerald-colored stones, and enamel work.
- When to Wear: Temple jewellery is perfect for weddings, festive rituals, Bharatanatyam or Kuchipudi performances, and any occasion that calls for a deeply traditional touch.
If you’re drawn to jewellery that feels powerful, spiritual, and rooted in heritage, temple jewellery is your match.
What is Kundan Jewellery?
Kundan jewellery traces its legacy back to the royal courts of Rajasthan and the Mughal era. Known for its regal craftsmanship, this style was originally created using layers of gold foil to set gemstones without any prongs.
- Design Features: Kundan is celebrated for its brilliance. Each piece is decorated with uncut glass stones that shimmer beautifully, often paired with meenakari (enamel work) on the reverse side. Unlike temple jewellery, kundan is more colourful and versatile.
- Materials Used: Modern artificial kundan jewellery is crafted with imitation stones, glass, and gold-plated settings giving you the same royal appeal without the heavy price tag.
- When to Wear: Kundan jewellery works beautifully for weddings, receptions, sangeet ceremonies, or even fusion outfits where you want a regal yet modern look.
If you love elegance and want jewellery that transitions easily between traditional and contemporary outfits, kundan jewellery is a perfect choice.
Key Differences Between Temple and Kundan Jewellery
| Feature | Temple Jewellery | Kundan Jewellery |
| Origin | South Indian temples | Rajasthan & Mughal courts |
| Design Motifs | Deities, coins, lotus, antique carvings | Glass stones, meenakari, floral & royal motifs |
| Look & Feel | Bold, antique, heavy | Regal, colourful, elegant |
| Occasions | Traditional weddings, festivals, and dance | Receptions, parties, Indo-western outfits |
| Styling | Best with silk sarees, heavy lehengas | Suits, lehengas, sarees, and even gowns |
In Short: Temple jewellery connects you to tradition and spirituality, while kundan jewellery gives you a royal charm that blends with both classic and modern styles.
Styling Tips – Which Jewellery Suits You Best?
Choosing between temple and kundan doesn’t have to be confusing. Here’s how you can style them based on your fashion needs:
- For the Traditional Bride: If you’re wearing a Kanjeevaram saree or a silk lehenga, temple jewellery will complete your bridal look with goddess-like elegance. Layer heavy chokers with long harams for the ultimate effect.
- For the Modern Bride: Planning a destination wedding or a glamorous reception? Kundan jewellery is your best friend. Pair a kundan choker with a flowing lehenga, or kundan earrings with a gown for Indo-western grace.
- For Everyday Fashion Lovers: You don’t have to save these styles for grand occasions. Temple pendants and lightweight kundan earrings are now designed in minimalist versions, making them suitable for festive get-togethers or even styling with kurtis and maxi dresses.
FAQs About Temple & Kundan Jewellery
- Can temple jewellery be worn with lehengas?
Yes! While temple jewellery is traditionally worn with sarees, pairing it with silk or velvet lehengas creates a bold, antique look.
- Is kundan jewellery heavy to wear?
Original kundan sets can be heavy, but modern artificial kundan is designed to be lightweight, making it comfortable for long hours.
- Which is more durable – temple or kundan jewellery?
Both are durable if cared for properly. Store them in dry boxes, avoid moisture, and clean with a soft cloth after use.
- Can I mix temple and kundan jewellery in one look?
Fashion has no strict rules! While they belong to different traditions, mixing a kundan maang tikka with temple earrings can create a unique Indo-fusion statement.
- Which jewellery trend is popular in 2025?
The latest trend is fusion styling, lightweight temple chokers with pastel sarees, or kundan chokers with western gowns. Both temple and kundan are making a comeback in bridal fashion this year.
Conclusion – Making the Right Choice
Temple jewellery and kundan jewellery are both timeless treasures that connect you with divine tradition, while the other exudes royal elegance. The right choice depends on your style, the outfit you’re wearing, and the occasion you’re celebrating.
At Sana Collection, we bring you handpicked artificial jewellery that blends tradition with modern trends, so whether you fall in love with the divine charm of temple jewellery or the royal sparkle of kundan, you’ll always find something that makes you feel extraordinary.
