Buying gold jewellery during Onam is seen as auspicious, symbolising prosperity, wealth, and good fortune. For many, it marks a time to bring in new beginnings, and gold is considered the ideal medium to do so. In Kerala, gold jewellery purchases during this festival also carry cultural significance, as it is believed to please the gods and bless the family with abundance for the coming year. This is also an opportunity for families to invest in gold as a secure financial asset. Furthermore, Onam offers the perfect time to buy gold for special occasions like weddings and other important ceremonies, as it aligns with traditional values of prosperity.
Why Onam holds a special place in Kerala's cultural calendar?
Onam holds a unique position in Kerala’s cultural calendar, being the celebration of harvest, unity, and the mythical homecoming of King Mahabali. It is a time when Malayalis from all corners of the world come together to celebrate with grandeur. The festival signifies Kerala’s agrarian roots, reflecting the joy of a bountiful harvest. It also highlights the state’s cultural diversity through traditional arts like Kathakali, Pulikali, and Onam Sadya, the elaborate vegetarian feast. Onam is more than just a festival; it is a time when people reconnect with their heritage, paying homage to their ancestors and celebrating the spirit of togetherness, peace, and abundance.
Where can you buy gold jewellery for Onam festivities?
Kerala is home to numerous reputed jewellery stores offering high-quality gold pieces, making it a paradise for gold buyers during Onam. Popular destinations include major cities like Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, and Thrissur, where renowned jewellers such as Kalyan Jewellers, Malabar Gold & Diamonds, and Jos Alukkas offer extensive collections. Online platforms are also gaining traction, with jewellers offering virtual shopping options, personalised designs, and home delivery. Local jewellery stores in towns and cities also provide a wide range of traditional pieces that capture the essence of Onam celebrations. Customers can explore various price ranges, from luxury ornaments to affordable designs that maintain the festive spirit.
Tips for choosing the perfect gold jewellery for Onam
- Consider tradition: Opt for pieces that reflect Kerala’s rich cultural heritage, such as temple jewellery, which blends well with traditional attire.
- Focus on quality: Ensure the gold is of high purity (22K or 24K) to ensure durability and value.
- Balance style and comfort: Choose designs that match your personal style but are also comfortable enough for long wear during the festivities.
- Budget wisely: While investing in gold is always worthwhile, set a budget and explore options within that range to avoid overspending.
- Look for matching sets: Earrings, bangles, and necklaces that complement each other enhance the overall festive look.
Best gold jewellery offers during the Onam season
Onam is a time when jewellers offer various attractive discounts, making it the ideal season to buy gold jewellery. Popular jewellers roll out special deals such as zero-making charges, additional discounts on bulk purchases, and flexible payment options. Some stores also offer loyalty programs and vouchers for future purchases. Many online platforms provide exclusive Onam offers, including free home delivery and customisation services. Additionally, jewellers often conduct raffles or lucky draws, where customers stand a chance to win exciting gifts. These seasonal offers not only make gold more affordable but also provide an excellent opportunity to invest in this precious metal during the festive period.
How to style gold jewellery for Onam festivities?
Styling gold jewellery for Onam is about enhancing the beauty of traditional Kerala attire. Women often pair layered necklaces with white and gold kasavu sarees, creating a timeless and elegant look. Gold bangles, rings, and jhumkas add to the festive flair. Men, too, incorporate simple gold chains or bracelets with their mundu and shirt ensemble for a subtle yet sophisticated look. Opting for a statement piece like an antique necklace or a bold bangle can add charm and stand out in the crowd. Mixing traditional gold with contemporary designs can also create a fusion look, perfect for modern celebrations.
Exploring traditional gold jewellery designs for Onam
Traditional gold jewellery designs like the ‘manga maala’ (mango necklace), ‘poothali’ (flower necklace), and ‘palakka’ (leaf-shaped designs) are timeless favourites during Onam. These designs, rich in cultural significance, represent fertility, prosperity, and nature. Temple jewellery, featuring motifs of gods and goddesses, continues to be popular for its intricate detailing and craftsmanship. Bridal sets often include ‘jhumkas’ (dangling earrings), heavy bangles, and waist chains that accentuate the traditional Onam attire. Chokers with ruby and emerald accents are also making a comeback, symbolising wealth and spirituality. These pieces showcase Kerala’s cultural legacy and the timeless appeal of traditional gold designs.
Why Onam is the best time to invest in gold jewellery?
Onam offers an ideal time to invest in gold jewellery due to the abundance of festive offers, discounts, and flexible payment options provided by jewellers. Many families choose this time to purchase gold for future weddings and ceremonies, taking advantage of seasonal price drops. The cultural belief that buying gold during Onam brings good fortune also drives investments. Additionally, with the festive spirit in full swing, jewellers introduce new designs and collections, giving buyers a broader selection. Investing in gold during this time is not only financially smart but also in line with Kerala's cultural traditions of wealth accumulation and prosperity.
Cultural importance of gold jewellery in Onam celebrations
Gold jewellery holds immense cultural significance in Onam celebrations, symbolising prosperity, purity, and divine blessings. In Kerala’s traditions, gold is not merely ornamental; it is a valuable asset passed down through generations. During Onam, families buy new gold to celebrate the harvest season and to honour King Mahabali’s return. Adorning oneself in gold during the festival is also a way of displaying familial wealth and social status. The exchange of gold jewellery during Onam is a common practice, where elders often gift gold to younger members, cementing bonds and ensuring the continuation of traditions.
Using gold loans to finance your Onam jewellery purchases
Gold loans have become a popular option for financing gold jewellery purchases during Onam. With gold prices rising, many people prefer taking out a gold loan to avoid depleting their savings. These loans are easily accessible and offer lower interest rates compared to personal loans. Many financial institutions and jewellers provide hassle-free loan options with minimal documentation. Customers can pledge their existing gold assets as collateral to obtain the loan, which can be repaid in easy instalments. This approach enables individuals to fulfil their Onam jewellery desires without straining their finances, making the festival even more joyous.
The benefits of taking a gold loan for buying gold jewellery on Onam
- Low-interest rates: Gold loans typically offer lower interest rates compared to other types of loans, making it an affordable financing option.
- Flexible repayment: Borrowers can choose repayment options that suit their financial situation, with instalments or bullet payments.
- Quick approval: Gold loans are easy to obtain, with minimal documentation and quick disbursal, allowing for hassle-free Onam shopping.
- No credit score requirement: Since gold acts as collateral, a good credit score is not necessary for approval.
- Preserving savings: Taking a gold loan enables buyers to purchase jewellery without dipping into their savings, maintaining financial stability during festive purchases.
How to leverage your gold jewellery as collateral for a gold loan?
Leveraging your gold jewellery as collateral for a gold loan is a straightforward and efficient process. First, approach a reputable bank or financial institution that offers gold loans. You'll need to present your gold jewellery for evaluation, where its weight, purity, and current market value will be assessed. Most institutions offer
loans up to 75-90% of the jewellery’s value. The loan is then disbursed quickly, often within hours, without the need for extensive paperwork or credit checks, as the gold serves as collateral.
- The gold remains securely stored with the lender until the loan is fully repaid, after which the jewellery is returned to you. Repayment options are flexible, with choices of equated monthly instalments (EMIs) or bullet payments. This method allows you to access funds without selling your jewellery, preserving its sentimental and financial value, while benefiting from lower interest rates than unsecured loans.
