Vipul Shah, Shaina NC, Sonam Kapoor, Amruta Fadnavis, Sanjay Kothari, Mehul Choksi, Anar Patel and Nirupa Bhatt at the IIJW lamp lighting ceremony.

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1 Vipul Shah, Shaina NC, Sonam Kapoor, Amruta Fadnavis, Sanjay Kothari, Mehul Choksi, Anar Patel and Nirupa Bhatt at the IIJW lamp lighting ceremony. IIJW 2015: Showcasing The Irrepressible Spirit Of Design The sixth edition of the prestigious India International Jewellery Week (IIJW) was held at the Grand Hyatt hotel in Mumbai from August 3-6, An initiative of the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council, the IIJW is the only dedicated jewellery week in the world. The most promising venue for Indian jewellery designers, IIJW 2015, was declared open in a star-studded ceremony. The show was inaugurated by chief guest, Amruta Fadnavis, finance professional and wife of the chief minister of Maharashtra; Shaina NC, designer and BJP spokesperson; Anar Patel, social activist and daughter of Gujarat chief minister Anandiben Patel; and Sonam Kapoor, actress and GJEPC brand ambassador. IIJW convenor, Sanjay Kothari; GJEPC executive director, Sabyasachi Ray; Nirupa Bhatt, managing director India & Middle East, GIA; and Mehul Choksi, chairman and managing director, Gitanjali also attended the lamp lighting ceremony. Vipul Shah, chairman of the IIJW gave the welcome address and stressed upon the strategic role that the IIJW plays in encouraging and developing new talent and fresh outlooks. In a short span of six years, the IIJW is now an established international lifestyle show and this year, a group of designers from Thailand are part of the event making IIJW the first show to have global participation, said Shah. The fact that Indian jewellery adorns so many women across the globe is a tribute to the skill of our manufacturers. 32 solitaire INTERNATIONAL SEPTEMBER 2015

2 (From left) Vaishali Banerjee, Sanjay Kothari, Nirupa Bhatt, Sheikh A Zaman, Sonam Kapoor, Sachin Jain, Rupali Srivastava and Vasant Bhandari at the IIJW grand finale. India will be the place to be in, in the years ahead, said Fadnavis in her speech. IIJW as a property has proved to the world that India is one of the prime destinations for jewellery globally, with design talents, which are indeed world class. Featuring over 20 glamorous jewellery shows over a span of four days, buyers and retailers were offered a glimpse into the trends and innovations in traditional and contemporary jewellery spanning prêt, couture and bridal for the upcoming season. The four-day jewellery feast came to a glorious end with a special show by the Thai Gem and Jewellery Traders Association (TGJTA). The show comprised of jewellery by KGK India and Zaverchand Bhurabhai Jewellery studded with coloured stones from Thailand. Shilpa Jogani and AG Design also featured their jewellery with Thai gemstones. Supermodel Kanishtha Dhankar was the showstopper and was accompanied by Isha Jogani and Kasem Nitasnajarukul, secretary general of the Thai Gem and Jewelry Traders Association. The grand finale encompassed some of the best jewellery from all the participating design houses and designers and was divided into four sections. Stepping onto the stage, Vipul Shah welcomed the chief guests Rita Teaotia, commerce secretary, Ministry of Kasem Nitasnajarukul and Isha Jogani walk the ramp with showstopper Kanishtha Dhankar at the Thai Gem and Jewellery Traders Association show. Commerce and Industry Government of India; Paul Rowley, executive vice president, DeBeers and Atul Jogani, vice president of the Thai Gem and Jewellery Traders Association to the grand finale of the IIJW. Shah thanked the sponsors and all concerned with the successful completion of the sixth edition of the IIJW and presented a memento to Siddharth, director general, Directorate General of Supplies and Disposals in the presence of Sabyasachi Ray and Nirupa Bhatt. solitaire INTERNATIONAL SEPTEMBER

3 CELEBRATION OF TRADITION The marvellous Divyam collection by Tanishq was a fitting end to a day of high fashion and design. Rows of fragrant mogra streamers hung from the ceiling filling the air with their perfume while two pairs of acrobatic and Bharatnatyam dancers enchanted the audience with their graceful and ethereal movements. Inspired by the heritage of Indian temples, the Divyam collection mesmerised the crowds with its heirloom pieces. Created in 22-karat yellow gold, the jewellery was inspired by temple architecture, sinuous sculptures and intricate designs to present an ethnocontemporary offering. Fusing several techniques like naqashi work and laser-cut stamps, each piece was a visual delight. The collection also featured jumkhas and jhumkhis, carved gold pendants, intricately crafted necklaces, chunky bangles, kadas and statement rings. A stately Juhi Chawla wearing a regal lehenga-choli walked the ramp flaunting Southern India-inspired gold jewellery for the brand from the Tata Group. FLORAL ALLURE Jewellery designer Moni Agarwal paired her new diamond jewellery line Zohrakshi with the sheen of traditional kancheevaram sarees to create an effortless mix of modernity and antiquity. Her flamboyant diamond pieces nestled gracefully among the folds of the traditional gold weaves. The Zohrakshi line is inspired by flowers and their ephemeral beauty and fleshed out in gold and studded with cut and uncut diamonds, rubies, emeralds and pearls. The collection features large chokers and collars, elaborately layered neckpieces, dramatic earrings and rings. Setting the ramp on fire, showstopper Sania Mirza wore a psychedelic blue brocade sari with a hot pink blouse. The colourful ensemble perfectly projected the elaborate diamond choker with suspended diamond chains. She also sported a pair of diamondstudded danglers and a waist belt. The sarees by Kancheepuram Varamahalakshmi Silks provided the ideal background for the sparkling beauty of the Zohrakshi line. 34 solitaire INTERNATIONAL SEPTEMBER 2015

4 FRESH LOOKS The Indian Institute of Gems and Jewellery (IIGJ), Mumbai presented five of its talented graduates at the IIJW in a show presented by Emerald. Introducing a new generation of future designers, the IIGJ plays a crucial role in developing the future of the industry. The Lotus Ssutra collection by Gitanjali Sahijwaala was inspired by Buddha and recreated a mystic atmosphere in shades of silver. The collection featured stunning chokers, earrings and bracelets with a mystical touch. A lotus pendant and matching haath phool, a draped necklace with a kada and a square geometric necklace with lotus motifs and earrings were standout pieces. The Druzy Dzire collection by Shimani Agarwal featured stylish, trendy, fashionable jewellery with intricate designs. A special quality of agate was used ingeniously to give off an unfinished, rough and natural feel. Colours took centre stage in the three piece collection as the stones blended perfectly with traditional design aesthetics. The Feathers of Paradise collection was inspired by the light and unassuming quality of feathers, which have been symbols of authority and power for kings, priests and chiefs for ages. Tanya Ajmera s quartet used the inspiration to create a magical collection that was dainty yet fearless. From pretty fly away earrings to delicate necklaces and ornaments, the boldly crafted jewellery instantly appealed to the youth. Inspired by the geometric pattern of the honeycomb, Madhura Bhelkar s Honeycomb collection was an impressive statement. The ornament sets primarily used hexagon shapes set in yellow gold and stood out against the sleek black gowns. Karan Agarwal s sparkly diamonds made its debut against the melodious strains of flautist Suhas. The Candere collection by Karan Agarwal featured high chokers embellished with 3D petals. Miss India International 2014 Jhataleka Malhotra wore statement pieces from each of the five participants. A DIAMOND LOVE AFFAIR Aum Monica Kapur launched her fabulous Cupid collection as an ode to the god of carnal love in a show presented by BVC Logistics Pvt Ltd. The designer unleashed a line of splendid necklaces, haslis, earrings, rani haars, bracelets, rings and pendants that can be worn on any occasion. The stunning collection uses vivid organic imagery like paisley and floral motifs and arabesque detailing to create exquisite jewellery with a life of its own. The designer paired her jewellery with Amy Billimoria s dramatic outfits to accentuate the romantic mood of the show. Sensuous long pendants ending in verdant emeralds, a graceful neckpiece in gold set with diamonds and pearl drops, a dual diamond and ruby draped necklace and a flat diamond necklace were absolute stunners on the ramp. The handsome TV actor Karan Veer Bohra walked the ramp in a beige suit offset with a striking yellow turban. The leafy sarpech designed by Monica Kapur added a hint of glamour to his show-stopping outfit. 36 solitaire INTERNATIONAL SEPTEMBER 2015

5 SOPHISTICated NOTES The Indian Institute of Gems and Jewellery, Delhi presented four of its most promising graduates at the IIJW. The debut collections were fresh, unafraid and bold. Cherry Sahni of IIGJ teamed up with Raghat Sahni of GIA to create the Diamondtree label. Presenting a new line called Tassels, Sahni s jewels appealed to the audience for its unabashed glamour. The mesmerising mix of emeralds, South Sea pearls, uncut and cut diamonds in tassels evoked admiration from the crowd. Aditi Arya, Miss India World 2015 was the glamorous showstopper. Rahul Luthra of the brand Ra Abta Jewels presented his stunning Enchantress collection that focused on the mysterious mix of black and gold. The main emphasis was on openwork along with hanging chains and stones. Rahul displayed a fabulous line of collars, body and hand harnesses, ankle cuffs, cummerbunds and hair ornaments brought to life in gold with onyx and enamel detailing. Stars Anuj Sachdeva and Niddhi Subbaiah walked the ramp garbed in seductive black. Rachna Gupta s Jewellery Studio brought out a variety of colours to entice viewers at the IIJW. The designer collection focused on creating a seamless mix of tradition and modernity. Her pieces incorporated unusual coloured stones in bold abstract patterns to create an illusion of energy and vigour. TV star Kamya Punjabi walked the ramp in a waist length statement neckpiece. Anushka Singhal and Asavri Singhal presented their Vararoha line named after the boons of goddess Lakshmi. The Felicia collection depicted the journey of life, from infant to bride, mother to old lady. The collection was very feminine in form and incorporated diamonds, gems and pearls. FESTIVE ADORNMENTS The diverse and undying spirit of Indian festivals played muse to Shobha Shringar s new collections at IIJW The sensuous Chitrangada Singh opened the colourful show wearing an auspicious red ensemble paired with an intricately crafted diamond collar with a ruby-centred pendant, haath phool, kada and earrings. The show was a treat to the eyes as the segments were interspersed with dance performances by Kathak and Bharatnatyam artists and a song sequence by Ashish Shah. The Navaratri collection relayed the vigour and joy of the auspicious festival with garba and dandiya raas movements. Chokers with gold beaded strands, ornate armlets, giant spiked neckpieces, jhumkis, chand balis, maatha pattis and maang tikkas were part of the vibrant line-up. Displaying the colour of Diwali, models wore ethnic outfits teamed with angular tassels around the neck, multiple rows of gold, pearl and diamond necklaces, chandeliers with Basra pearls and lattice patterned earrings. The Christmas collection showcased global designs paired with heavenly gowns. There were diamond palm cuffs, striking cocktail rings, gem-studded necklaces, tasselled earrings, armlets, danglers, draped multi-row collars and shimmering ornaments. The show ended with an elaborate collection of temple and nizam jewellery that evoked the richness of Indian history and tradition. Singh once again walked the ramp bedecked in gold ornaments. solitaire INTERNATIONAL SEPTEMBER

6 DIAMOND DAZZLE Gitanjali Gems Ltd. tied up with the Beti Foundation, an NGO that works towards empowering women, to kick-start the IIJW A bevy of models walked the ramp draped in Shaina NC sarees for the Beti show. The stage was lined with floral arrangements in pastel shades of pink and white. The blossoming bunches of carnations, roses and lilies reflected the feminine spirit of the show. Anu Ranjan, head of the Beti Foundation gave an account of the show while her lovely daughter Anushka Ranjan, soon to be seen in the Bollywood film Wedding Pulao walked the ramp wearing Nakshatra jewellery. The theme of the show was Mesmerising Diamonds and featured jewellery from Gitanjali s brands namely Asmi, Gili, Nakshatra and the Nizam collection. The collections featured an array of bold and minimalist designs set in a pristine palette of diamonds. The show reflected the preciousness of a daughter and a diamond. The Nakshatra collection featured elegant designs focusing on a principal floral motif while the Asmi collection addressed the modern woman with a line of global and contemporary designs. The Nizam collection portrayed the opulence of Indian royalty in traditional kundan, polka, jadau and meena work. Popular singer Kavita Seth mesmerised the crowd with her melodious voice. The show also saw many celebrities take the stage along with their daughters to further the noble cause. SILVER COMPOSITIONS The Silver Atelier by Jewels in Vogue show featured three different brands by Leading Jewellers of the World. The presentation showcased jewellery crafted in silver and non-precious metals in lively colours studded with cubic zirconia, solitaires and gemstones. Giving a distinct Italian flavour to the show was Viola Italia with its exquisitely crafted silver jewellery. A line-up of lacy collars and delicately crafted necklaces glittered on the ramp. The gorgeous Konkana Bakshi wearing a gold and diamond-entwined necklace played showstopper. The Donatella line s striking abstract earrings in geometric forms followed in the segment. Coloured stones were used to highlight the necklaces, earrings, cuffs, bangles and bracelets. Pearl chains teamed with gold interlinked rings, layers of pearl baubles on asymmetric chains and graduating gems in necklaces added a fresh feel to the collection. The Lucera line, one of the most affordable and stylish silver jewellery collections for work, prét and evening wear, was dedicated to the young fashionista. Spirals played an important part in the design while diamond pronged neckwear edged with gems created a sparkling elegance. Bollywood star Hrishitaa Bhatt looked gorgeous pairing her black peplum gown with a lacy ornate diamond and gem-studded necklace worn as a hair ornament and teamed with stunning chandeliers. 38 solitaire INTERNATIONAL SEPTEMBER 2015

7 VIVACIOUS JEWELS Surya Golds in association with Swarovski Gemstones presented a fun show filled with music, dance and laughter. The Mystical Ancient Creation was an opulent offering of striking pendants clasped with strands of precious stones. Collars embedded with zirconia were edged with imposing pear-shaped stones. Strands of stones ended with jewelled clasps and matching chandeliers while ornate heritage pieces created a hypnotic effect on the catwalk. The fancy coloured zirconia came to life under the lights of the ramp and wowed the crowd with their brilliance. Fan-shaped pieces, peacock-inspired designs and rigid V-shaped collars with cuffs and earrings gave a dramatic twist to the line. To balance the beauty of the fabulous jewellery, the flesh toned sexy gowns, as well as interesting cocktail and vintage retro saris with seductive blouses were created by ace designer, Manali Jagtap. Topping the show with her bubbly charm and boundless energy, actress Soha Ali Khan sashayed down the runway in a dreamy tulle gown with arabesque detailing. She carried off a sparkly and feminine tiara effortlessly and looked every inch a princess. Ramesh Shoor and Naresh Shoor, directors of Surya Golds along with Rajendra Jain, managing director, Swarovski Gemstones, India took a bow for the fabulous show they had put up. REIMAGINING THE EIGHTIES (IIGJ Jaipur) The Glam Revival 2015 show presented by Sun Jewels Pvt Ltd featured 21 talented students of the Indian Institute of Gems and Jewellery, Jaipur. The fresh graduates joined hands to meticulously craft jewellery that evoked the bold and fearless style of the eighties in two sets. The first set was inspired by floral, geometric and talismanic motifs that revealed the creative strengths of the students. The mix of gold, diamonds and pearls was achieved harmoniously to create stunning floral centred pendants and petal earrings. Intricately crafted armlets, dangling pendants and danglers for the ears were some of the eyecatching entries. The second sequence manufactured by Savio Jewellery was an incredible line-up of fine, glittering diamond jewellery. Diamond and ruby sets in unmatched designs had trellises, lattice and lacy patterns which were merged with floral 3D motifs. Looped neckpieces with matching swirls for earrings and cascading chokers ended in clusters of circular rubies and a diamond and ruby asymmetric necklace were standout pieces. Sukesh Verma, Nikita Jain, Niyati Jain, Simran Bhirud, Aditya Jangir, Akshita Chhajed, Alisha Sharma, Harsha Manchanda, Himanshu Sharma, Jhilik Das, Mohd Alzaib Khan, Priyanka Goyal, Priyanka Vashishtha, Rohit Saini, Shivani Jain, Sudhanidhi Agarwal, Swati Malu, Nidhi Chandiwal, Mansi Sharma, Payashwini Saini and Vedika Tated were the students behind the show. Acknowledging the well-deserved round of applause on the ramp were Anish Kappil and Krishan Kumar Dal of IIGJ, Nirmal Barmecha, director, IIGJ Jaipur, Sanjay Kothari, Convener, IIJW and Shishir Nevatia, managing director of Sun Jewels. 40 solitaire INTERNATIONAL SEPTEMBER 2015

8 NATURE UNTOUCHED The Gemological Science International, an independent gemological laboratory, presented the fabulous collection of couture designer Anand Shah called The Garden of Eden at IIJW. Anand Shah s eponymous label welcomed spectators into the world of the couture designer, a world where nature reigns supreme. Featuring nearly 23 pieces in a tightly edited show, Anand Shah s creations have a distinct life of its own that is not muted or influenced by ramp lights. The antique-gold finish jewellery incorporated stunning textures and was highlighted with ancient craft techniques. Filigree, granulation and unique surface treatment along with kundan settings were mixed harmoniously to create jewellery that was truly unique. Swirling leaves and scrolling vines curved to form necklaces while floral blooms and birds nestled on the golden fields of his cuffs. Blending pastel glass with 22-karat gold, beads and other unusual elements, Shah s pieces were unique and one-of-a-kind. Beaten gold collars, a polki raani haar and floral bud-inspired necklaces teamed with double jhumki earrings, had the audience hold their breath in wonder. Actress Richa Chadda, played showstopper wearing an elegant white outfit with a magnificent over the shoulder floral necklace and a matching ear-cum-head ornament. Taking a bow at the end of the show, Anand Shah was greeted with roaring applause as he walked the ramp with Debbie Azar and Mark Gershberg from Gemological Science International. DIAMOND SYMPHONY Displaying her prowess over diamonds, designer Varuna D. Jani churned out a lust-worthy collection for her VOW show at the IIJW. Interspersing the pale sparkle of the diamond with large lush emeralds, deep sapphires and scarlet rubies, the designer created pieces exuding a distinct feminine grace. The stage was set with graceful dancers who displayed the magic of the designer s modular jewellery. The assortment of earrings comprised styles incorporating half-moon patterns, double loops, shell patterns, paisley designs, pear shapes and then moved on to giant emeralds surrounded by diamonds for statement rings. Long diamond chains with florets, a triple string version and a balanced ruby and diamond mix for neck wear and chand balis were huge hits. The second part of the show was devoted to wedding wear with stylish masterpieces in gold, diamonds, rubies and precious gems. Magnificent collars with interwoven trellised patterns in gold and diamonds, lace edged cuffs and swirls of precious gems were turned into intricately crafted neckpieces. The designer chose to honour her father Ramchand Popley, on stage by inviting him to walk the ramp as the showstopper for her show. 42 solitaire INTERNATIONAL SEPTEMBER 2015

9 WINGED WONDERS Jewels by Preeti, the diamond jewellery brand by Preeti Jain showcased its unique Papillon collection featuring eclectic colour palettes, organic motifs and stunning gems at IIJW. Ileana D cruz opened the show in a gorgeous diamond and emerald necklace, armlet and danglers paired with a light lemon yellow ensemble. The line featured exquisite bracelets, waistbands, rings and hair ornaments for the young woman. For the mature woman, there were amazing polki and diamond-studded raani haars and temple jewellery with matching bracelets and rings. The assortment of long necklaces, cummerbunds, anklets and earrings had a raw appeal. Made from 18- and 22-karat gold, Preeti showcased a diamond and polki passa which can be worn with Western and ethnic garments. Maatha pattis, double pendants on long chains of uncut diamonds, chand balis with centre spheres and haath phools were standouts at the show. An openwork hasli interspersed with gemstone and diamond columns combined with a fan-shaped pendant fringed with floral vines and accentuated with uncut diamonds epitomises the spirit of the new age woman. VIBRANT COLOURS The Jewellers Association Show in collaboration with Malca Amit JK featured a riot of colours at this year s IIJW. The show featured the marvellous creations of three leading jewellers from Jaipur Gem Plaza, Saboo Fine Jewels and Kothari Jewels. The foot tapping numbers of singing sensation, Ali Quli Mirza set the tone for the show. Renowned jewellery house, Gem Plaza exhibited a range of splendid bridal creations that dazzled the viewers. A diamond and ruby-encrusted set, a four-row neckpiece of rubies and diamonds, a neckpiece with ruby florets and pear shaped pendant with a square emerald necklace were memorable pieces. Saboo Fine Jewels showcased three charismatic collections. The Yaksh Kuber collection featured the raani haars of the Mughal and Rajput era. The Kaustubh Collection had an asymmetric ruby, pearl and diamond circular necklace with seed pearl detailing and Basra highlights while hoops, kadas and ruby chains with giant oval pendant looked great on the ramp. The Lissome Collection was creative with a three dimensional rose and emerald centre as well as diamond sets with ruby strands. Kothari Jewels presented a fabulous collection of diamondand gemstone-studded bridal jewellery, rings, earrings and bands dreamt up in a medley of shades, kundan meena and diamond polki. The Modern and Trendy Collection featured diamond collars, chand balis with swirls, dainty daisies in rubies and diamonds as well as jhumkis. From the Ethnic Collection, heavy maatha pattis, kundan meena raani haars and pearledged chokers grabbed one s attention. Taking a triumphant walk down the ramp after an exciting show was Sakhi and Priyal Dhadda from Gem Plaza; Suman Saboo from Saboo Fine Jewels and Piyush and Poonam Kothari from Kothari Jewels. Vijay Kedia, president, Jaipur Jewellers Association, Sanjay Kothari and Pramod Derewala, convener, Jaipur Association Show also walked the ramp. 44 solitaire INTERNATIONAL SEPTEMBER 2015

10 HIGH-END GLAMOUR Yoube Jewellery showcased its Amare collection, a classy line of jewels inspired by Victorian and European design aesthetics. The pieces used the interplay of luminous pearls and sparkling diamonds to bring out the high-end European romance that is the ethos of Amare. Opening the show, Madhur Bhandarkar walked the ramp in a stylish tuxedo with a lapel brooch. The brand experimented with traditional ornaments and showcased an innovative shoulder drape-cum-brooch, a curved neck ornament; a haath phool and an armlet featuring rows of draped gemstones. The brand s triangular balis with diamond spheres and chandeliers with a flowing diamond necklace were great fusion offerings. Putting on a bold and edgy front, Yoube displayed a necktie inspired necklace and a sensational body-shoulder harness in diamonds and pearls. Bollywood beauty, Aditi Rao Hydari looked magnificent wearing a bib-cum-body harness in pearls, diamonds and emeralds with pearshaped danglers and bubble design cuffs. ANTIQUE ELEGANCE Birdhichand Ghanshyamdas Jewellers created a fitting close to the IIJW with its dramatic Adaa collection. Selecting six iconic beauties as the inspiration behind Adaa, Birdhichand Ghanshyamdas Jewellers recreated the styles of the past with a touch of modernity by experimenting with striking colours, patterns and styles. The collection paid tribute to six iconic women famous for their style and their character. Maharani Gayatri Devi, Razia Sultan, Umrao Jaan, Sita Devi of Kapurthala, Queen Niloufer from Hyderabad and the gorgeous Jodha Bai from Rajasthan were brought to life at the show. The Umrao Jaan section opened with enamelled chokers with round pendants, maang tikkas, haath phools, naths, ear-cum-hair ornaments and raani haars debuted on the ramp. Pearls were the centre of attraction along with kundan in the Maharani Gayatri Devi section. The Queen Niloufer of Hyderabad segment showcased dual earrings, gold chandeliers, kaan phools, ear cuffs, palm cuffs and delicately designed chand balis edged with floral danglers. The gorgeous Dia Mirza brought the segment to a close looking resplendent with royal jewellery by the brand. The Razia Sultan collection epitomised the bold and fierce spirit of the Mughal princess while Maharani Sita Devi of Kapurthala s iconic style was recreated with 3D round pendants, kaan phools with tassels, finger cuffs, half-moon pendants and raani haars. The Jodha Bai collection from Rajasthan featured sensational sets comprising paisley-edged necklaces, flat kundan and ruby haars and diamond bibs. The charming Preity Zinta, dressed in bridal finery, accompanied Yash Agarwal, creative director of Birdhichand Ghanshyamdas down the runway as the show came to a close. solitaire INTERNATIONAL SEPTEMBER

11 TRADITIONAL TONES Sunil Jewellers, specialists in kundan meena and jadau ornaments, presented a collection rooted in tradition at the IIJW. The antique gold work chitrai or gold engraving with traditional Rajasthani motifs and designs were the major highlights at the show. They also introduced a new fusion polki jadau jewellery line for modern women. Showcasing traditional ornaments like the kaan phool and the nath along with haath phools and kadas, Sunil Jewellers ensured that the collection had an all-round heritage feel. Richly ornate rani haars with diamonds and rubies, multi-row diamond necklaces and colossal bibs created drama on the runway. Rising Bollywood actress Kriti Sanon took the ramp wearing a cascading choker, teamed with a raani haar, a maang tikka, bangles and a ring-cum-bracelet. Taking a bow on the ramp after a truly scintillating show were Sunil Agarwal and Rita Agarwal of Sunil Jewellers. IMMORTAL DESIGNS Darshan Dave presented his brand Diosa in association with Swarovski Gemstones. Taking its name from the Latin word for goddess, Darshan Dave s collection is tailor-made for the goddess in every woman. The Diosa show was a celebration of dance and featured different styles like the tango, salsa and flamenco alongside Dave s exquisite creations. A white and green Swarovski encrusted bracelet, ear cuffs with pearl centres, an intricate neckpiece and an impressive tiara were some of the stunners on the catwalk. The Diosa show had no dearth of celebrities. Supermodel Ujjwala Raut flaunted her willowy frame wearing a multi-strand diamond choker, trellised earrings and diamond bangles on her sheer black gown. Miss India Sushree Shreya Mishra wore a gorgeous green zirconia and pearl necklace with glamorous shoulder dusters. Singer Mansi Scott wowed the crowd with her graceful movements wearing a double layered necklace, statement rings and bangles. Singer, dancer and actress Sophie Choudhry rocked a turquoise outfit paired with a wide choker, tiara, rings and bangles. The high voltage show ended with a final walk down the ramp by Darshan Dave accompanied by gorgeous celebrities. 46 solitaire INTERNATIONAL SEPTEMBER 2015

12 BRIDAL SPLENDOUR The Gems and Jewellery Trade Council of India in association with GDK Jewels presented two sensational collections by National Institute of Design graduates, Dhruv Singh and Avantika Kumar Agarwal at the IIJW. Dhruv Singh s Bijouterie collection wooed the viewers with its pristine allure. Etched in diamonds, the sparkling colliers, chokers, earrings and kadas symbolised the ultimate bridal dream. Catering to the modern-day woman who is confident and sure about what she wants; Dhruv Singh s designs are bold yet delicate. Designer Avantika Kumar Agarwal s Aaraa by Avantika line took the stage by storm with its bold and colourful designs. The Aaraa signature collection drew its inspiration from the pale pink allure of the lotus. Designed in sterling silver with 22-karat gold- plating the ornaments were encrusted with pearls and semi-precious gems. The intricate lattice work was prominent in the neckpieces and the designer weaved the lotus motif into circular ear studs and uniquely designed bangles and maang tikkas. TV star Shveta Salve, the perky showstopper, glided down the ramp with strands of pearls and rubies draped on the bodice to create an impressive necklace, teamed with an armlet and a pronged kada. GDK Jewels gave the audience a glimpse into their brand Amaya with diamond- and gemstone-studded chokers. A multitude of earrings, rings, kadas and bangles added to the beauty of the collection. Bollywood star Evelyn Sharma made a show-stopping entry for the brand wearing a cascading diamond necklace, bangles and matching danglers. URBANE ALLURE Designer Alka Kumar of Aaks Jewels presented a stunning show on the second day of IIJW 2015 with a mélange of jewels in myriad shades. A melodious interweaving of rows of pearls, rubies and emeralds was used ingeniously with exquisite pendants to create a fresh look. Gold and emerald strands with an inset pendant, alternating rows of black and white pearls highlighted with a dramatic pendant and pearl and emerald chains centred on a square piece were memorable designs. A lacy crescent choker with a fringe of pearls, necklaces with cutwork gold centres, mushroom-shaped earrings and pearl chains with floral motifs were innovative designs seen at the show. Bollywood star, Kiara Advani made a grand entrance wearing an impressive maatha patti, ruby and pearl necklace, cocktail ring and wide cuff. Combining the beauty of age-old craftsmanship techniques with 21st century designs, the jewellery had a stylish contemporary feel. To match the mood of the jewellery, designer Maushmi R Mewawala, created a wardrobe of elegant formal wear that highlighted the glamour of the ornaments. 48 solitaire INTERNATIONAL SEPTEMBER 2015