Ornaments that contain rubies
Rakkodi, used to hold hair spun into a chignon or bun, as Tamil women call it.
Jadainagam, or hair ornament that goes down the length of the long braid.
Surya pirai and Chandra pirai. Round ornaments on either side of the head that resemble a sun and a moon.
Maannikka Addigai or Addiyal. Ruby necklace worn close to the neck. Like a choker but not as tight.
Maanga maalai, or mango shaped necklace. Worn long or short.
Makara kanti. Ruby-studded necklace worn long till the chest. With a pendant shaped like a makara crocodile.
Tamil names for gemstones
Manickam: ruby
Vairam: diamond
Marakatham: emerald
Vaiduryam: cat’s eye
Manickam: Ruby
Neelam: sapphire
Pushparagam: yellow sapphire
Muthu: pearl
Pavazham: coral
“Rubies, with pearls. That’s nature’s jewellery.”
Sir Edwin Arnold
