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Migration Museum of Dunedin: Sri Lanka

Kandyan Wedding Necklace

 

Date of Creation: 1994

Materials: Silver dipped in gold with decorative green and pink stones, and pearls

Arrival in New Zealand: 2010

Description:

Gold chain necklace embellished with alternating pink and green decorative stones. Two entwined swans form the pendant, which also features pearl detailing.

Researcher: Sophie Kean

History:

This wedding necklace comes from the Kandyan region in Sri Lanka and was brought to New Zealand in 2010 by Mrs Jayawardena. It was made in 1994, when she and her fiancé chose it for their wedding. This necklace is part of a larger jewellery set which consists of a headdress, nalal patiya; earrings, dimbithi; and the pictured necklace, padakkam maale. Traditionally a Kandyan bride wore 26 pieces of jewellery, which were made from copper, dipped in silver and then gold. Now, brides generally wear less jewellery, and it is typically made of silver dipped in gold, with decorative stones.

Significance:

It is tradition for a husband to give his wife jewellery during the Poruwa ceremony. A Poruwa ceremony involves rituals performed by the bride, groom, and both their families. Couples step onto the poruwa, an adorned altar elevated above the ground, in order to complete the marriage. The necklace takes the shape of two entwined swans which embody the couple’s unity and her husband’s love and devotion.

This necklace reflects how individuals can embrace multiple cultures. While living in New Zealand, Sri Lankan customs and recognition of her love remain important to Mrs Jayawardena: two countries form her home.

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