On a Gilt Trip

An initiative of the Gems & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC),the country’s only jewellery week has,since its inception in 2010,showcased a line-up of designers,leading brands and their collections. “We have been successful in presenting the world-class craftsmanship of Indian designers. The aim is to showcase our talent on an international platform in the future,” says Sanjay Kothari,Convenor,Promotions,marketing and business development,GJEPC. IIJW until now has been held in Mumbai.

The two-day Delhi edition of IIJW will see a potpourri of 14 designers and brands showcase their latest collections on the ramp with IIJW brand ambassador Sonam Kapoor leading the way. “I am pleased about the Delhi edition as I think Delhi has good buyers,” says Kapoor. An admirer of traditional Indian jewellery,Kapoor says it’s time for Indian jewellery to shine. “I think uncut diamonds and jadau jewellery is something to look forward to this year,” she says.

Interestingly,while diamonds and precious stones will be predominant in the collections,Kothari hints at the increasing use of other metals and contemporary designs. “Designers are constantly innovating and there are collections where wood has been used as well,” he says.

For designer Rosily Paul who will showcase on day one,her collection,The Layers,is inspired by the “inquisitiveness of opening a multi-layered gift”. “For IIJW 2013,I have created designs which are contemporary and include a few futuristic elements as well,” says Paul. Also showcasing on the first day is veteran jewellery brand Hazoorilal. Designer Pooja Juneja on day two will present her collection,called Conflation.

The event will also see collections by major jewellery players such as

PC Jewellers,Gitanjali,Birdhichand Ghanshyamdas,Rio Tinto and Kays Jewels. It’s become de rigueur to have celebrities,Bollywood actors mostly,walk for fashion events and this year’s edition will play that up even more.