From Temple to Trend: How Gold Necklace Designs Travelled from Kerala to Dubai

Wiki Article

Every gold necklace tells a story — but few know that some of the most loved gold necklace designs in Dubai's showrooms today began their journey centuries ago in the temple towns of Kerala.

At Jos Alukkas, we see it every day: a bride in Dubai choosing a necklace whose design her great-grandmother in Thrissur would instantly recognise. This is the story of how those designs made the journey — and why they still rule modern showcases.

Where It All Began: The Temple Tradition

Kerala's classic gold necklace designs were born in devotion. The Kasavu-inspired Palakka Mala, with its green palakka stones set in rich 22K gold, was first crafted for temple deities before it adorned brides. The Mulla Mottu Mala, shaped like rows of jasmine buds, and the coin-strung Kasu Mala carried the same temple artistry into family celebrations.

These were never just ornaments. Each design carried meaning — prosperity, purity, blessings for a new home. That is why they were passed from mother to daughter, generation after generation.

The Journey to the Gulf

When Malayali families began moving to the Gulf in the 1970s and 80s, their gold travelled with them — and so did their taste. Dubai's jewellers quickly noticed that customers from Kerala did not just want gold; they wanted their gold. The Palakka, the Kasu Mala, the temple-work choker — demand for these heritage gold necklace designs grew so strong that they became permanent fixtures in Dubai showrooms.

Today, Dubai is one of the few places in the world where you can find authentic Kerala temple designs sitting beside Turkish ropes, Emirati bridal sets, and Italian minimalist chains — all under one roof.

Heritage Meets 2026

What is fascinating is how these designs are evolving. Modern brides are asking for lighter versions of the Palakka Mala for daily wear. Layered Kasu Malas are trending on Instagram as "coin necklaces." Temple chokers are being paired with office wear. The designs have not changed — the way we wear them has.

Jewellery designers now call this the "heritage revival" — and it is the biggest trend in gold necklace designs this year, from Kochi to Dubai Mall.

Choosing Yours

When exploring gold necklace designs, let the occasion guide you: temple-work and Palakka for weddings, lightweight malas for gifting, and layered chains for everyday elegance. Always check the hallmark, and choose a jeweller who understands both the craft and the story behind it.

At Jos Alukkas, our collection carries that story — from designs rooted in Kerala's temple heritage to the contemporary styles Dubai loves today. Because the best gold necklace is not just worn. It is remembered, retold, and one day, passed on