Traditional south Indian jewellery was crafted to complement the shape and structure of the parts of the body, from head to toe. This is a south Indian hair ornament; called a rakodi it is a gently curved, disc - shaped jewel, attached at the top of a braid. It is usually accompanied by a smaller pair of discal (surya) and semi – discal (chandra) accessories. Such elaborate hair ornaments were worn in south India by women on special occasions; by brides; and by dancers. Here a gem - set hamsa or swan occupies central space, surrounded by foliage set in clusters of rubies and scattered diamonds and emeralds. This rakodi is an heirloom collected by Dr.R.D.Gangatharan’s maternal family.
