Brass broidered coconut shell craft of Kerala

Coconut shell brass broidered craft is a popular craft from Kerala. A high degree of skill is required for carving brass broidered items out of coconut shells, especially hookahs.  The brass broiderd decoration is made through the lost wax process which also demands a high degree of skill and perfection. The required raw material is merely a good quality coconut shell, obtained from coconut trees abundantly cultivated in Kerala. The colour combination of the coconut shell with brass gives the object its visual appeal. The coconut shell is the most versatile part of the coconut since it is organic in nature. Because of its durability, strength and resistant to abrasion, it is suitable for long-term use. The shell is similar in composition to hard woods though the lignin content is higher and cellulose content is lower.