The story
Salem's silversmiths have made silver anklets for generations, and the craft spread through workshops in Shevapet, Hasthampatti and nearby villages. Most work is done in small family units on job-work for wholesalers who supply jewellers across South India and other states. Demand peaks around Pongal, Deepavali and Akshaya Tritiya. Salem silver ornaments are the district's ODOP product.
In numbers
Salem has over 10,000 silver production units supporting about 1.5 lakh people; Pongal, Deepavali and Akshaya Tritiya are the peak seasons for anklet makers.
Salem silver manufacturers in dire straits — DT NextSilver manufacturers have urged the state government to seek Geographical Indication status for Salem kolusu.
Salem silver manufacturers in dire straits — DT Next
Ways in for a newcomer
- Job-work for wholesalers on anklets, chains and toe rings
- Online retail of hallmarked Salem silver jewellery
- Silver polishing, plating and repair services
- Supply of dies, tools and findings to artisans
Problems the cluster faces
- Sharp swings in silver prices cut orders
- Low wages and health risks for artisans
- Machine-made jewellery from other centres
- No GI protection yet