Old is Gold' is a well-known saying, but today 'Old' models in gold is the in thing! It proves once more that most often 'modern' is old wine in a new bottle!

In the olden days, marudani (a green leaf variety) in paste form was used by the women folk for decorating their hands and feet. Then this practice was dismissed as useless, for some time. Today this has become a fashion trend, albeit in a new avatar, as Tattoo, and not confined to the hands and feet only, though!

In the movies of yesteryears, it was quite common to see heroines, particularly in the role of queens or princesses bedecked with literally 'tons' of jewellery. Movie-goers have longed to own some of those pieces and found all those designs not available in the market. All ye, take heart! These models and designs are very much available in Chennai, now!

'Ethnic Jewellery Mart' near Kapaleeswarar temple sells only heritage jewellery. One can get to see and buy a whole range of 'old' designs. The collection is not confined to the heritage of Tamilnadu. It covers the entire country. The prices range from Rs.1500 to Rs. 1,00,000 and more.

One can buy the South Indian 'favourites' like 'South Indian traditional mango malai', 'Ruby magri malai', 'Ruby adigai', Kaapu', 'Dollar', 'Kar vanki', 'Thaiyat', 'Gundumalai' 'Padakkam', 'Moap', 'Odiyanam', 'Gowri sankar', etc.

One can also buy 'Uncut diamonds' of Rajasthan, ruby bangles of Coorg, Burma and necklaces and navaratna malais (a long necklace) from here.

"We have countless designs," says Rajesh, Manager, Ethnic Jewellery Mart. The shop was started a year ago by Madanchand and family, who have been in the jewellery business for more than 35 years. They have organised an exhibition in the city as part of their First Anniversary celebrations.