Here at Luxury Bazaar, we always like to keep our finger to the pulse of the international jewelry trade, as this helps us stay up-to-date on the latest trends and allows us to admire the work of designers we may not have heard of before. As both an historic jewelry hot-spot and an emerging economic powerhouse, India is an important player in luxury jewelry trends throughout much of the world. With this in mind, we were happy to conduct this interview with Ankit of Elegant Charms International, a well-known jewelry company in the city of Jaipur.
1.> When did you first become interested in the jewelry industry?
While I started this business in 2003, my parents were also jewelers, so I have been exposed to the art of jewelry-making for my entire life.
2.> What motivated the creation of your unique metal/wood and dual metal hybrid pieces?
My grandfather and father, who were both fantastic jewelers in their own right, always motivated me with their innovative and unique designs. For my business, the hybrid pieces are my own creative contribution to the world of luxury jewelry.
3.> What were your most popular Sterling Silver jewelry pieces this year, and why do you think they were so succesful?
My most popular pieces this year are turquoise stone rings and earrings, mostly because they have been extremely popular among American and European buyers.
4.> Jewelry has always been important in Indian culture. What role has jewelry played in India’s rapidly-expanding economy?
In Jaipur, up to 30% of people are dependent on the jewelry industry because it is the traditional business of this region, so on the local level alone, it plays a great role in expanding the Indian economy. Nationally, of course, it is even more significant.
5.> Where do you see India’s jewelry industry heading in 2012?
As a new generation of jewelers comes of age, I expect low cost and fashionable jewelery to become increasingly available in 2012.
You can visit Elegant Charms International online by visiting http://www.ecjewels.com
