JEWELLERY

The diverse origins of Peranakans are paralleled by their centuries-long interactions with many cultures. In their jewellery, many motifs and elements are borrowed, shared, or adapted from other local communities. Often, it is impossible to isolate “pure” parts in these mixed forms. 

Our gallery on Peranakan jewellery presents a glistening array of over 180 pieces of jewellery across various stages of life and occasions, tracing its chronological development and evolution in response to changing dress fashions and hybrid influences. Jewelled heirlooms on display include a Chitty Melakan addigai necklace, an Arab Peranakan hairpin, and a set of adornments from one of the oldest Chinese Peranakan families in Sulawesi, Indonesia.