Silver-Plated Snake Chain Ball Anklet

Two anklets come in the set rather than one, which is how payal is actually worn. The chain is a silver-plated snake link, the flat closely-wound kind that moves like a single piece of metal, and that is the right choice for an ankle. It lies flat against the skin and does not twist into itself, and there are no gaps for a chappal strap to catch.

Each one carries two small ball beads with a fine texture cut into them, spaced apart so they sit either side of the ankle bone.

Silver-plated brass gives the white metal colour at a price that makes a pair sensible rather than precious. Payal at this price is meant to be worn daily and replaced when it wears, and that is a reasonable way to own one.

Feet meet water more than hands do, which is the main thing to know. Plating on an anklet has a harder life than plating anywhere else, and taking them off before a bath adds months.