Get to know us

About Zhalkesi

It all started with a simple question!
How can jewelry tell stories of home?
For us, home is Tamil Nadu—the land of filter coffee mornings, temple bells that echo into sunsets, and autorickshaw adventures through bustling Chennai streets. At Zhalkesi, we’ve transformed these everyday moments into something extraordinary—something you can wear!
What began as a passion for handmade polymer clay jewelry has grown into a celebration of Tamil Nadu’s heritage. Every design is a tribute to the little things that make Tamil culture unique, infused with history, crafted with care, and brimming with vibrant stories.

But why the name Zhalkesi?

Zhal draws inspiration from the ornate jewelry worn by the Cholas and Kesi, which is from Kundalakesi, a legendary Tamil epic from the Aimperum Kaappiyangal.
With vibrant, handcrafted designs and customizable options, every earring, necklace, and ring carries a bit of Tamil Nadu — made just for you!
Zhalkesi is not just jewelry; it’s our love letter to Tamil Culture
Carry a piece of home wherever life takes you!

About The Founder


“Jewellery is more than an accessory; it's a story waiting to be told. I aim to blend the rich heritage of Tamil Nadu with contemporary designs, creating pieces that resonate with culture and individuality."

— Maria Joseline Niveditha
Founder and Creative Director, Zhalkesi

Maria Joseline Niveditha is the creative force behind Zhalkesi, a brand that seamlessly blends tradition and innovation to create exquisite jewellery. An IT professional turned jewellery designer,Maria’s journey began with a desire to mix her passion for Tamil Nadu’s cultural legacy and her love for crafting unique adornments. Her journey into jewellery began in college, where she won a jewellery-making competition at Anna University. In 2021, Maria decided to follow her heart, leaving behind her IT career and founding Zhalkesi. What started as a hobby of creating earrings and sharing them on her YouTube channel quickly blossomed into a full-fledged business.With designs inspired by culture, history, architecture, nature and art, and Tamil Nadu’s vibrant traditions. Maria strives to create jewellery that celebrates individuality and beauty. Through Zhalkesi, she hopes to bring a sense of pride and joy to those who wear her creations, each piece telling stories of heritage.


Our Mission

To celebrate Tamil Nadu’s rich legacy and preserve cultural stories by handcrafting premium contemporary jewellery while promoting sustainability. By producing unique, small-batch creations, we stand against fast fashion and offer pieces designed to be cherished and passed
down through generations. Through every design, we aim to inspire individuality and empower self-expression, allowing each person to wear a piece of art that tells their own story.

Our Vision

To become a globally recognized brand that celebrates and honors the artistic and historical
richness of Tamil Nadu through innovative, handcrafted jewelry, bridging the gap between
tradition and modernity.

Our Goal

Our commitment extends beyond artistry; we are dedicated to creating a positive social impact
by upskilling women in the craft of polymer clay, promoting sustainable practices, and running a
thriving business supporting our artisans' livelihoods. By building a strong online presence, we
seek to expand our reach globally and inspire a deeper appreciation for the art of cultural
storytelling through jewelry.

About the designer


“Jewellery is more than an accessory; it's a story waiting to be told. I aim to blend the rich heritage of Tamil Nadu with contemporary designs, creating pieces that resonate with culture and individuality."

— Maria Joseline Niveditha
Founder and Creative Director, Zhalkesi

Maria Joseline Niveditha is the creative force behind Zhalkesi, a brand that seamlessly blends tradition and innovation to create exquisite jewellery. An IT professional turned jewellery designer,Maria’s journey began with a desire to mix her passion for Tamil Nadu’s cultural legacy and her love for crafting unique adornments. Her journey into jewellery began in college, where she won a jewellery-making competition at Anna University. In 2021, Maria decided to follow her heart, leaving behind her IT career and founding Zhalkesi. What started as a hobby of creating earrings and sharing them on her YouTube channel quickly blossomed into a full-fledged business.With designs inspired by culture, history, architecture, nature and art, and Tamil Nadu’s vibrant traditions. Maria strives to create jewellery that celebrates individuality and beauty. Through Zhalkesi, she hopes to bring a sense of pride and joy to those who wear her creations, each piece telling stories of heritage.