This intriguing and beautiful-looking traditional Palakka mala ring, wrought from rich yellow solid 22k gold, comes from Kerala a state in South India. A round faceted .2 carat ruby is mounted at the top of the leaf (shield-shape) which is inset with a special emerald green glass. The band is incised on the inside: M&M 35 916 KDM. The letters M&M are probably the maker's hallmark, 916 means 22k purity, and KDM is the old name for Cadmium-soldered jewelry. The ring measures 3/4" (19mm) knuckle to knuckle and weighs 2.9 grams. It has a low profile and feels comfortable when worn. Presently size 6 1/2, it can be re-sized by a jeweler.

KDM means gold mixed with cadmium. This could be mixed in the ratio of 92% and 8%. Cadmium-soldered jewelry is widely known as KDM jewelry. ... Cadmium, which can cause an allergic reaction in some people, has been replaced with Zinc and other metals. The term 'KDM' still sticks and KDM jewelry has the same purity even when melted. Other 22K jewelry tends to be soldered with copper in a 60:40 ratio to gold which means that the overall gold purity of the ring is lower than 22k. However, KDM jewelry like this ring maintains an overall purity of 22K.