The murti (idol) of Balaji worshipped in the Tirumala
Venkateswara temple is covered with gold plate. All the details in the stone
murti can be found on the gold plate. Diamonds and other precious stones are
used to adorn the crown, conch, discuss and two hands, which are covered in
gold.
Venkateswara is decorated with the largest emerald in the
world – which is around 3 inch in diameter.
The chest of the murti is adorned with two gold plaques –
the right side gold plaque has Goddess Lakshmi carved on it. The left side
plaque has Goddess Padmavati carved on it.
The golden crown is studded with gems.
The golden earrings are in the shape of crocodile and are
known as Makara Kundala.
One of the golden necklaces worn by Balaji consists of
Saligrama and the thousand names of Vishnu are engraved on it.
Another golden necklace is made of Tulsi beads.
One necklace consists of beads with the image of Goddess
Lakshmi carved on it.
One necklace has tiger claws covered with gold.
Golden armlets are in the shape of hooded cobras.
Sword too is covered with gold. The belt on which the sword
hangs is decorated with 10 Avatars.