A New Story - The Jadeite Kerosang

When you first see a Peranakan kerosang, it might look like a simple set of brooches—pretty, delicate, maybe even old-fashioned. But for the Peranakan community, the kerosang is much more than a decorative accessory. It is a symbol of identity, womanhood, craftsmanship, and family heritage, worn with pride through generations.

What Is a Kerosang?

A kerosang is a set of three brooches traditionally worn on the kebaya—the beautifully embroidered blouse from Peranakan and Malay culture.

• The top and bottom brooches are usually oval or heart-shaped

• The middle piece, known as the ibu (mother), is larger and more ornate

Together, the three pieces function as both fastener and ornament, giving the kebaya its elegant, signature look. The three brooches are joined by a chain, 'rantay' (rantay being the Baba Malay word for chain). 

Where It All Began

The Peranakan community—also known as the Baba Nyonya—has a long history blending Chinese, Malay, and later European influences. The kerosang reflects this mix beautifully.

Throughout the years, the team has seen multiple Kerosangs at various peranakan events and museums, and can firmly notice that most of these pieces are adorned with:

• Chinese motifs such as phoenixes, butterflies, plum blossoms

• Malay artistry and patterns

• European filigree and metalwork brought by colonial craftsmen

The result was something uniquely Peranakan — rich in detail, culture, and personality.

More Than Jewellery: A Cultural Symbol

For a Nyonya, the kerosang represented more than beauty, it is often a treasured heirloom passed down for generations, celebrating one’s peranakan heritage and personal taste.

Symbolic Designs

Motifs were chosen intentionally:

• Phoenix for nobility and prosperity

• Butterflies for grace and transformation

• Peonies for wealth and honour

• Birds and flowers for harmony and happiness

And now, we’re seeing a revival—especially among younger women who enjoy pairing vintage kerosang with modern kebaya or even contemporary outfits. These pieces can be worn even as a modern single brooch, to accent a simple outfit and to showcase one’s personal style.

A New Chapter: Little Jadeite House’s Modern Jadeite Kerosang

In recent years, the appreciation for heritage jewellery has inspired new interpretations. Noticing that the love for peranakan jewellery has increased in recent years (often due to more local dramas and media exposure), we thought it’ll be cool to create a modern take on this classic.

Traditionally, kerosangs were made from gold, diamonds (Intan), and coloured stones—but jadeite was rarely used in classic sets. Your team decided to reimagine the beloved brooch trio using fine jadeite pieces, merging Peranakan artistry with the timeless beauty of jade.

Why This Modern Twist Matters

• It respects tradition
  The structure, symbolism, and purpose of the kerosang remain true to Peranakan roots.

• But it brings fresh life to a heritage piece
  Jadeite adds a new colour palette and texture that feels both elegant and contemporary.

• It connects two important Asian art forms
  Peranakan metalwork and Chinese jade culture blend naturally, yet this combination is still uncommon — making your kerosang unique.

• It sparks renewed interest
  Younger generations and collectors are often excited by heritage pieces that feel meaningful but also wearable in modern settings.

Your jadeite kerosang is a reminder that heritage doesn’t have to remain frozen in the past — it can evolve gracefully without losing its soul.

Our team first chooses pieces that are suitable – the shapes, carvings and textures that will create an amazing visual. Carefully sculpting the patterns, we use modern natural diamonds and blend the filigree work to create a beautiful work of art. All one-of-a-kind.

The Kerosang Today: A Cultural Treasure

Whether made from gold, diamonds, or jadeite, the kerosang remains a cherished symbol of identity and artistry. Each set carries stories of craftsmanship and culture, reflecting how Peranakan women expressed beauty and tradition in their everyday lives.

And as modern creations like your jadeite kerosang show, the story is far from over. New hands, new materials, and new generations continue to keep this beautiful tradition alive.

If you’d like to create a set of Kerosang or even a single brooch, feel free to contact us at +65 97356878.