The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), in collaboration with GIA, recently hosted the 7th Artisan Jewellery Design Awards in Mumbai. This prestigious event celebrated the fusion of design and craftsmanship, challenging designers to explore new realms by incorporating unusual materials and cherished objects into their jewellery creations.
One of the highlights of the evening was the presence of actress and style icon Sonam Kapoor, who graced the stage with her elegance and charisma. Alongside industry luminaries such as Vipul Shah, Kirit Bhansali, Sriram Natarajan, Milan Chokshi, and Sabyasachi Ray, Sonam Kapoor presented awards to the deserving winners.
This year, the theme of the Artisan Jewellery Design Awards revolved around two unconventional concepts: ‘Objet Trouvé’ (Found Objects) and ‘Unusual Materials’. Designers were challenged to infuse their pieces with a unique identity, drawing inspiration from treasured objects of the past and exploring the interplay between contrasting materials.
Speaking about the event, Sonam Kapoor expressed her pride in the Indian jewellery industry and its ability to showcase excellence in design and craftsmanship on a global stage. She commended the Artisan Awards for nurturing young talent and pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation.
Vipul Shah, Chairman of GJEPC, emphasized the significance of the Artisan Jewellery Design Awards in redefining the landscape of jewellery design and elevating India as a premier design centre. He underscored the council’s dedication to positioning India as a leader in design innovation, in alignment with the government’s Make in India campaign.
Milan Chokshi, Convener of Promotions & Marketing at GJEPC, highlighted the emotional and aesthetic resonance of fine jewellery, emphasizing its status as a cherished art form. He praised the entries of this year’s competition for their inspiring creativity and expressed confidence in the future of Indian jewellery design.
The Artisan Jewellery Design Awards attracted nearly 600 participants from India and abroad, sparking a wave of creativity and innovation within the industry. The winning entries, which ranged from cufflinks and bracelets to earrings and hairsticks, showcased breathtaking designs that challenged convention and captivated the imagination.
The event also saw the recognition of industry stalwarts whose contributions have left a lasting impact on the jewellery landscape. Farah Khan was honoured with the Design Excellence Award, while Rahul Jhaveri received the Global Indian Jewellery Designer award. Intergem Exports and Birdhichand Ghanshyamdas Jewellers were also celebrated for their excellence in manufacturing and retail.
The Artisan Jewellery Design Awards serve as a testament to the creativity and craftsmanship that define the Indian jewellery industry. By providing a platform for emerging talent and celebrating innovation, GJEPC continues to champion the artistry and ingenuity of Indian jewellery designers on a global scale.
