Bintang

Bintang is a Malaysian term meaning “stars”. This star-shaped pendant with brooch attachment are generally set with gems and diamonds and are adorned with mini stars and floral motifs, some has a round convex shape similar to a tortoise shell with solar and floral motifs. This jewelry piece is normally used to adorn Baju Panjang or the bridal gown. Bintang are also worn on the groom’s hat or Western suit similar to a medal.

Hairpin

Rose-cut diamonds ornamented hairpins in the old days. It is worn to give the finishing touch to a hairdo. There are two types of hairstyle that incorporates hairpins; first is the low bun, second is the high bun called “Chak-Ee-Boi”. A bride must only wear 6 hairpins; others either wear 3, 5 or 7 hairpins. Unmarried women wear hairpins on the right hand side and the married ones on the left hand side. 

Kerongsang

Kerongsang set are brooches with rose-cut diamonds worn to fasten or decorate ladies’ traditional outfits. There are two types of Kerongsang. The first is called “the mother and child set”, this set includes one elegant heart-shaped mother piece (Kerongsang ibu) and two smaller child pieces of similar design (Kerongsang anak). The tail of the mother piece is always pointing to the left towards the heart of the wearer. Another type is a set of brooches with auspicious motifs such as butterflies and floral motifs linked together by chains. The kerongsang displays unique and delicate craftsmanship.

Lantepai

Lantepai is a necklace decorated with rose-cut diamonds and other precious gems with motifs such as birds, insects and flowers. Lantepai can be adapted to become a brooch, bracelet or even a crown. 

Earrings                          

There are numerous designs of Peranakan earrings. “Hang-Hong” or Swan Tail earrings took its name of the design which nestle comfortable along the shape of the ear lobes. Swans are considered auspicious birds bringing luck and prosperity to the wearer. Another design is called “Toong-Ting” or Drop earrings and is worn by the brides on their wedding day.

Gold Necklace

These are necklaces with many different lengths and thickness, worn on top of the bridal gown and attached with six to twelve Bintang.

Kimtoon

Gold coin from English Colonial times between 18th and 19th century were used as pendant and buttons. Bigger coins were made into pendants and are decorated with floral and animal motifs. The smaller coins were used as buttons.

Huana pendant

Flower basket pendant decorated with hanging attachments.

Silver and gold woven bag

The silver or gold woven bags paired with handkerchiefs are clipped to the belt as part of Peranakan ladies’ outfit paired with handkerchief. 

Maiteen

“Maiteen” or anklets are worn by the bride on her special day. Maiteen are generally hollow and embossed with repetitive auspicious designs. Some are attached with small trinkets that jingle with movements. It is always worn in pairs and symbolises of love between husband and wife.

Bayeh Ring

Bayeh ring is a lozenge shaped diamond ring. On the wedding day, the bride must only wear the rings in even numbers such as 2, 4, 6, 8 or 10. 

Belt

Peranakan ladies wore sarong every day. Belts were therefore essential and were made out of 90%, 95% gold or 40%, 45% pink gold 40% or silver.

Diamond bracelet and bangle

Bracelets and bangles generally has floral or vine motifs.

Gold Buttons

Baba costume required 5-7 of gold buttons held together by chains hidden inside.