Expert Guide · Since 1967
Kemp Jewellery for Bharatanatyam: Original, Copper or Imitation?
Kemp jewellery — the deep red-stone temple jewellery worn for Bharatanatyam — comes in three very different qualities that can look alike in a photo. Here is what each one is made of, what it costs, and which one suits an arangetram, regular performances or practice.
What is kemp jewellery?
Kemp is the deep red stone set into traditional South Indian temple jewellery; the word comes from the Kannada word for red. Kemp sets — necklace, long haram, headset (rakodi, nethichutti, suryan and chandran), jimikki, mattal, oddiyanam (belt), vanki and bangles — are the classic Bharatanatyam look.
Original kemp temple jewellery: pure silver + 24ct gold leaf
Original temple jewellery is made on a pure silver base and covered in 24ct gold leaf, then set with kemp and other stones by hand. The gold leaf gives a warm, matte finish that looks rich under stage lights and in photographs. This is the jewellery families choose for an arangetram and keep for years. It is usually bought piece by piece; in our Original Temple Jewellery collection single pieces run from ₹1,950 to ₹1,24,000.
Copper (Margam) jewellery
Margam jewellery is made of copper with a gold finish. It has the same traditional designs and kemp-stone look at a much lower price than original silver and gold-leaf jewellery, which makes it a good choice for regular stage performances and for dancers who perform often.
Imitation kemp jewellery
Imitation jewellery is made from a zinc and iron mix with thin plating. It is the most affordable — full imitation sets cost ₹1,299 (kids' sets) to ₹4,800 — and is ideal for practice, school programmes and early performances. The finish wears faster with regular use.
Which one should you buy?
Arangetram or a once-in-a-lifetime performance: original silver and 24ct gold-leaf temple jewellery. Regular performances: copper (Margam) jewellery. Practice and beginners: imitation. Many families mix — for example original necklace and headset, with copper or imitation for the smaller pieces.
Caring for kemp jewellery
Wipe each piece with a soft dry cloth after the performance, let it air out, and store it in a cloth-lined box away from moisture. Avoid water, perfume and chemical cleaners, and do not keep it in plastic bags.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is original kemp jewellery made of?
Original kemp temple jewellery is made on a pure silver base covered in 24ct gold leaf, with hand-set kemp (red) and other stones. It is not solid gold.
What is the difference between original temple jewellery and Margam jewellery?
Original temple jewellery is pure silver with 24ct gold leaf. Margam jewellery is copper with a gold finish — the same traditional look at a lower price.
Is kemp jewellery good for an arangetram?
Yes — kemp temple jewellery is the most traditional choice for a Bharatanatyam arangetram. For the arangetram itself, original silver and 24ct gold-leaf jewellery is recommended; copper or imitation works for practice and regular performances.
Can I buy kemp jewellery piece by piece?
Yes. Original temple jewellery is usually bought piece by piece — necklace, haram, headset, jimikki, mattal, belt, vanki and bangles — so you can build a set over time.
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