Metal Jewellery and Jewelled Objects of Manipur

Beads are widely used in creating Manipuri traditional jewellery. Beads are often used to make necklaces. Most typical gold ornaments are essentially studded with different varieties of gems. Many pieces of Manipuri traditional jewellery are also in high demand. Some of them are well-known, such as Kiyang-Likphang, Marei, Heibi Mapal, and Khimahurn. The materials used are gold, silver, and brass. Brass and silver necklaces, earrings, and nose studs are also common ornaments.

The tribal, Manipuri traditional jewellery is usually very special. Metals are seldom used by the tribes in the development of ornaments. Their ornaments are distinguished by bead ornaments, ivory armlets, and ornaments made from seeds or beetles.

As ornaments, many tribes also use bamboo or cane leggings dyed with vegetable dyes. After heating, these leggings are coiled according to the height of the wearer. Cane or bamboo earrings, as well as nose studs, are common, as are cane armlets or wristlets dyed and decorated with bird feathers.