Temple jewellery in India is a south Indian style, and imitation temple jewellery is now made in volume by manufacturers in Rajkot and in other Indian cities. It differs from kundan in design and construction: temple pieces are cast with deities, lotus and peacock motifs, while kundan is built around set stones with foil backing.
For the origins and symbolism, read what temple jewellery is. This guide covers how to buy it.
Temple jewellery versus kundan
Temple jewellery is built mainly from cast metal, with the shape of the casting doing most of the visual work. Coloured stones, often red and green, are added as accents. Kundan pieces rely on dense stone-setting and have a flatter, jewelled look. What kundan jewellery is shows the contrast.
The distinction matters for sourcing because the skills are different. A good caster does not automatically make a good kundan setter, and the reverse is also true. Ask makers what they actually produce most of.
Who makes it?
Imitation temple jewellery manufacturers tend to be casting-led workshops. Many make a base casting in brass, then send it for gold-tone plating and, if needed, stone setting. In Rajkot these trades sit close together, which makes sampling quicker.
Traders also sell temple sets sourced from several makers. They can supply small quantities of ready stock, but they cannot change a mould. If you want your own design, you need a maker. Trader or manufacturer shows how to tell.
What to specify when ordering
Temple sets have a few details that often go wrong:
- The weight of the set, since heavy castings feel substantial but can be uncomfortable as earrings or long necklaces.
- The sharpness of the casting detail, which you can check by comparing deity faces and petals on an approved sample.
- The plating colour and its finish, usually a warm antique gold, and whether it is uniform across all parts of the set.
- The stone type, size and setting method for accent stones.
- The clasp and adjustable cord or hook length, for fit.
Markets and religious sensitivity
Temple designs often show deities. Some buyers and platforms treat religious imagery carefully, so check how the design will be described and displayed in your market. Ask your own legal or marketplace contact if you are unsure, rather than relying on the supplier.
Demand is strongest among south Indian diaspora buyers in the UK, US, Gulf and Southeast Asia, particularly for weddings and classical dance.
How long does a temple jewellery order take?
Lead time depends on whether the maker already has the moulds. Existing designs from a catalogue are quickest, since castings can start at once. New designs need die or mould making first, then a first sample, then corrections.
Allow for at least one extra sample round on a new temple design, because carved detail often needs adjusting after the first casting. Ask the maker how many designs they are producing at the same time, as a crowded casting schedule near festival or wedding season stretches every order. Booking early with a clear specification is the best protection against delay.
Next step
Temple pieces are worth a sample round before any large order. We shortlist casting-led workshops, check samples and supervise production. To start, book a free sourcing review.