When you wander through the heart of Yogyakarta’s cultural tapestry, you’ll discover silver jewellery glowing in the warm sunlight of Kotagede. This ancient neighborhood is not just a place to shop, it’s a living archive of Javanese history, tradition, and artistry.
The tradition of silver crafting here dates back to the 16th century, tied to royal workshops and cultural ceremonies. In this guide, we’ll walk you through Kotagede’s origins, show you how to experience its timeless tradition, and help you find the best silver jewelry pieces.
Table of Contents
Where’s Kotagede?
Kotagede is a charming neighborhood just southeast of Yogyakarta’s city center. Originally established in the 1500s, it served as the first capital of the Mataram Sultanate, a golden age of Javanese art, religion, and culture. The silversmithing tradition began under royal patronage in the Patehan, or palace workshop, where Abdi Dalem (palace servants) worked with hammered silver under the watchful eye of the Sultan.
Historic ceremonies such as Rampadan involved craftsmen forging special pieces for royal events. These craftsmen used simple tools: a small hammer, steel dies, and charcoal furnaces. Their work was more than craft; it carried philosophical meaning. Silver symbolizes purity, calm, and reflection, values central to Javanese spiritual life.
Though the rituals are less frequent now, many workshops still honor these traditions during local ceremonies or anniversaries. Once a daily practice tied to palace worship, crafting is now done more for tourist demonstrations and cultural festivals, yet the legacy remains vibrant.
What’s to Explore in Kotagede?
Walking along Kotagede, you’ll find open-front workshops where artisans forge silver before your eyes. Some places offer short demonstrations; others have you try basic hammering yourself. The atmosphere is both historic and alive; the ringing of hammers blends with friendly chatter about design, price, and meaning.
If you want a deeper experience, some offer silver-making classes or guided visits. For example, at one workshop, you can book via WhatsApp or Instagram a half-day “Silver Experience” package: learn basic techniques, craft a simple piece, and get a certificate. Workshops are typically small and intimate, bring a companion and enjoy personal attention from the craftsman.
How to Find the Best Silver Jewellery Shop in Kotagede?
If you want to find the best silver jewellery shop in Kotagede, go somewhere that has the authentic Kotagede silver pieces. They often carry a lion-head hallmark or SKT (Surat Keterangan Tanda) certificate guaranteeing purity (usually 925 silver).
Genuine pieces will have clear, sharp patterns, like florals, filigree, or traditional motifs, not rough or blurry lines. Ask about the story behind the design, the maker, and the process. Good shops welcome these questions, they want you to appreciate the art.
Shops offer a range from small earrings to elaborate necklaces. Quality silver (925) will cost more than silver-plated items. Take your time comparing a few shops on the same street. A reputable shop will tell you how to clean and store silver items, and may even offer simple polishing services later.
Silver Shop & Workshop Recommendations
Here are some top shops in Kotagede known for their quality, atmosphere, and authenticity:
1. Silver HS
A long-standing, family-run workshop with skilled artisans and varied designs, from delicate earrings to bold cuffs. They also demonstrate silver hammering for visitors, making it a great stop to both shop and learn.
- Operating Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Location: Jl. Mondorakan No.1, Prenggan, Kotagede, Yogyakarta
- Instagram: @hssilverofficial
2. Sweda
“Sweda” comes from an old Javanese word meaning fingers, symbolizing how each piece is handcrafted with care and soul. Sweda blends traditional silver craftsmanship with modern artistic expressions, music, and youth subcultures. This fusion reflects the creativity to keep the spirit of handmade artistry alive through every design we create.
- Operating Hours: 10 AM – 6 PM, closed on Sunday
- Location: Prenggan Selatan KG II 986A, Prenggan, Kotagede, Yogyakarta
- Instagram: @sweda.co
3. Kotagede Silver
A stylish showroom featuring polished display cabinets, and friendly staff. They offer custom orders and a small workshop area in the back for visitors to observe the production process.
- Operating Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Location: Jl. Kemasan No.13, Purbayan, Kotagede, Yogyakarta
- Instagram: @tokoperakkotagedesilver
By now, you’ve learned where to go, what to look for, and how to find the best silver jewellery in Kotagede. From the historical rituals of Rampadan to today’s vibrant workshops, the tradition thrives in friendly studios and shops.
