The glitter of gold has fascinated man since the dawn of time. Men have fought battles, died, killed, stolen and cheated all for a piece of this yellow metal. Throughout history, gold has stood as a symbol for power, wealth and affluence. 

The jewellery of Kerala provides a very fascinating study on account of its elegant finish and variety of designs. Every ornament worn by the women of Kerala is a product of carving, hammering, etching or some process involving ingenuity and individual skill. Being conservative, the artists have clung to the same forms. The art has maintained an unbroken continuity of tradition. The simplicity, polish and beautiful finish are admirable. From early times the art of the jeweler has  appealed strongly to the genius of the ancient craftsmen. Some excellent jewellery is preserved in the temples of Trichur, Trivandrum, Vaikom, and Ettumanur. They are made of gold on which precious stones, such as diamonds rubies and emeralds are laid. Meticulous care was bestowed on the minute details of work, and high technical skill was shown in cutting and polishing refractory stones.