Nyonya Jewellery

Kerongsang

Keronsang were the most prominent piece of jewellery worn by Nyonyas, with the grander pieces reserved for special ocassions such as weddings. These days, it is rare to see kerongsang in full sets, as most have been split into individual pieces over time.

Insect Gold & Diamond Earrings

Peranakan girls had their ears for kerabu, or earstuds, before the age of 10. These studs were worn at all times as it was considered improper for Nyonya’s ears to be unadorned. Common designs were the roes or rosette, and bunga tanjung or star, but funky designs such as these insect earrings were popular too.

Specially Commission Belt

Depending on the occasion, Nyonyas wore simple cloth belts or exquisite jewelled ones such as this design which were specially commissioned. During World War 2, Nyonyas hid gold belts under their clothes. However, many belts were traded during the war for much-needed cash.

Silver-gilt Torque or Neck-Piece With Dragons

A silver-gilt torque with dragon motifs like this was worn by  Babas from Penang during the wedding ceremony. Dragons signify the male in Peranakan culture.