If you grew up in an Indian home, you've probably heard someone ask, "Is it 92.5?" before buying silver jewelry. It's the first question. It's how you know it's real.
Now put that together with South Indian temple jewelry, the Lakshmi motifs, kempu stones, and nakashi carvings we all grew up around, and you get something special: 92.5 silver temple jewelry. Heirloom design, real silver, and a price that doesn't need a wedding budget.
What is 92.5 silver temple jewelry?
It's temple jewelry made in 92.5 sterling silver, which is 92.5% pure silver, and usually finished with gold plating or an antique gold look. You get the traditional temple style in a precious metal, without the cost of solid gold.
New to the 92.5 vs. 925 thing? They're the same. Read our explainer on what 925 and 92.5 silver mean.
Why temple jewelry in 92.5 silver?
- It's real silver. Unlike brass or alloy temple jewelry, a 92.5 silver piece is a precious metal underneath the gold.
- It lasts. If the plating softens over the years, a jeweler can often re-plate it, so the piece can stay with you for decades.
- It's gentler on skin for many people than base metals.
- It's wearable. Silver temple pieces can be lighter and more affordable than gold, which makes them easier to wear often, not just once a year.
The motifs to know
- Lakshmi: the goddess of prosperity, on kasu coins, pendants, and chokers.
- Kempu: deep red stones that make temple jewelry instantly festive.
- Nakashi: carved or embossed motifs like deities, peacocks, and florals.
- Peacocks (mor): grace and beauty, on jhumkas, necklaces, and kadas.
- Mango (manga): a symbol of abundance in malas and pendants.
Want the full glossary? Read South Indian jewelry, explained.
How to choose a 92.5 silver temple piece
- Look for the purity. The listing should say 925, 92.5, or sterling silver clearly.
- Check the finish. Bright gold feels festive, antique gold feels vintage, and oxidized feels earthy.
- Zoom into the details. Good temple jewelry has crisp carvings and neatly set stones.
- Think about weight. For everyday wear, go small: studs, mini jhumkas, a slim kada, or a pendant.
Wear it every day, not just at weddings
This is where 92.5 silver temple jewelry really shines. Kempu studs with a white tee. A nakashi kada with your watch. Mini temple jhumkas with a cotton kurta on a Tuesday. Our everyday jewelry guide has more ideas.
Caring for it
- Wipe gently with a soft, dry cloth after wearing.
- Keep it away from water, perfume, and lotions.
- Store each piece separately so carvings and stones don't scratch.
- Skip harsh silver polishes on plated or antique pieces.
Our 92.5 silver temple jewelry
Our Neema collection is Yamoona's home for South Indian temple jewelry in 92.5 sterling silver, with kempu, nakashi, Lakshmi, and peacock pieces handcrafted by Indian artisans. It's rooted in our family's jewelry heritage through Indeevari, and made for how you live now.
