Introduction: Where Tradition Meets Timeless Beauty
Every bride dreams of her wedding day — not just the vows and the flowers, but the sparkle that makes her feel regal, radiant, and revered. In Sri Lanka, bridal jewelry holds a place of deep cultural importance. It is more than just adornment — it is an expression of identity, heritage, love, and legacy.
Whether you’re a bride planning a traditional Kandyan wedding, a Hindu ceremony, or a contemporary celebration with a personal twist, your jewelry becomes part of your bridal story. Let’s explore the essential jewelry items every Sri Lankan bride should consider — from head to toe — and how to style them for your unique day.
Head to Toe Elegance – Essential Bridal Jewelry Items
1. Maang Tikka / Nethi Chutti – The Symbol of Serenity
Worn on the center parting of the hair, the maang tikka or nethi chutti adds divine beauty to the bride’s face. Whether you choose a single-drop gold tikka or a more elaborate multi-chain version, it beautifully frames the forehead and highlights the eyes.
Ideal For: Hindu brides, Kandyan styles, modern fusion looks
Pro Tip: If you have a high forehead, opt for a broad tikka; for a smaller face, go minimal with a delicate piece.
2. Matha Patti – The Regal Headpiece
For brides who love bold traditional looks, the matha patti is a must-have. This is an extension of the maang tikka with side chains that sit across the forehead, creating a majestic frame.
Complements: Heavy bridal makeup, braid hairstyles, lehengas and sarees
Variations: Temple designs, pearl-lined patti, kundan-studded pieces
3. Hair Jewelry / Jada Billalu – The Finishing Touch
Sri Lankan and South Indian brides often enhance their braids with jada billalu (braid jewelry). These are small, round or floral motifs pinned onto the braid from top to end, finished with a rakodi or central back-head ornament.
Why Brides Love It: It adds symmetry and royal elegance to bridal hairstyles
Modern Take: Hair vines or gold floral pins for buns and curls
4. Earrings (Jhumkas & Chandbalis)
No bridal look is complete without earrings that complement the outfit and hairstyle. Jhumkas (bell-shaped earrings) and chandbalis (crescent moon-style) are top choices.
Materials: Gold, kundan, polki, pearls
With or Without: Mattal – ear chains that hook into the hair for support and style
5. Necklaces – Layers of Love and Legacy
Neck jewelry is the centerpiece of any bridal ensemble. Traditional Sri Lankan brides often wear multiple layers of necklaces, mixing textures, designs, and lengths.
a) Choker / Short Necklace
- Worn close to the neck
- Ideal for enhancing high-neck blouses or sarees
b) Long Haar / Haram
- Often temple-designed with goddess Lakshmi or coin motifs
- Can go as long as the waist for grand impact
c) Kasumala / Manga Malai
- Coin-style or mango-shaped chains
- Iconic in both Tamil and Sinhalese bridal jewelry sets
Pro Tip: Choose your blouse neckline before selecting necklaces for the perfect fit.
6. Nose Ring (Nath / Nose Stud)
A traditional nose ring or stud is a meaningful addition to the bridal face. It’s considered auspicious and enhances the facial features beautifully.
Styles:
- Large nath with chain (for traditional ceremonies)
- Delicate nose pin (for subtle modern charm)
Note: If you don’t have a piercing, clip-on versions are available!
7. Waist Belt (Oddiyanam / Kandyan Belt)
The oddiyanam or bridal waist belt is both stylish and functional — it helps hold the saree or lehenga in place while accentuating the waistline.
- In Kandyan attire, it’s a signature statement.
- In Tamil culture, it often features intricate goddess or peacock designs.
Materials: Solid gold, stone-studded, or antique finish
8. Bangles & Bracelets – The Sound of a Bride
Bangles are worn in multiples — the more, the merrier. Whether gold, glass, gemstone, or enamel-coated, bangles represent prosperity and love.
a) Valayal / Kangan
Heavy gold bangles with embossed details
b) Kada
Single, chunky bangles often paired with sets
c) Haath Phool / Hand Harness
A ring and bracelet connected by chains — beautiful for hand photography!
Color Tip: Red, green, maroon, and gold bangles are considered auspicious.
9. Finger Rings – The Statement Piece
Don’t stop at your engagement ring. Bridal hands often showcase 2–3 rings per hand, including statement cocktail rings, antique rings, or traditional signet styles.
Matching Tip: Align ring designs with your necklace or earrings for a cohesive look.
10. Armlets (Vanki / Upper Arm Jewelry)
Popular in traditional South Indian bridal wear, vanki or armlets are curved ornaments worn on the upper arms. Often styled with sleeveless blouses or off-shoulder cuts, they give an ethereal touch to the bride.
Looks Best With: Temple sarees, sleeveless blouses, or bare-arm silhouettes
11. Anklets (Kolusu / Payal) and Toe Rings (Metti)
No bridal look is truly complete without adorning the feet. Silver or gold anklets with tiny bells (kolusu) add music to every step, while toe rings (metti) symbolize marital status in Hindu weddings.
Modern Option: Sleek chain anklets with minimal bells for elegance
💡 Styling Tips for Today’s Bride
- Mix Metals Mindfully: If you love rose gold or silver, combine with traditional yellow gold thoughtfully to avoid visual conflict.
- Balance Heavy & Light: If your necklace is heavy, keep earrings light — and vice versa.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Choose pieces that flatter your frame; small-framed brides may find very large pieces overwhelming.
- Customize Your Set: Many jewelers offer bridal sets that can be tailored to your style, including detachable layers, multi-use earrings, or clip-on options.
💫 The Final Glow – Jewelry as Your Story
Bridal jewelry is more than shimmer and sparkle — it is a part of your story. Passed down through generations or chosen thoughtfully for your special day, each piece carries emotion, tradition, and hope.
When the day is over and the celebrations end, your jewelry remains — a lasting reminder of the moments, the people, and the love that surrounded you.
💍 Whether You’re a Traditional Bride or a Trendsetter…
From temple jewelry to minimal modern designs, Sri Lankan brides today enjoy the freedom to blend tradition with trend. Whether you wear one treasured heirloom or layer yourself in gold and pearls, let your jewelry reflect who you are.
Your wedding is a celebration of you. And your jewelry? It’s the crown you wear as you step into your new life — bold, beautiful, and uniquely yours.