Pearls, Properly: Natural, Cultured, Freshwater and South Sea, Plus Five Ways to Spot a Fake
Pearls are the one gem most Indian households already own and almost nobody can classify. A strand comes down through a family, gets described as “Basra” or “real”, and is never examined again. Meanwhile the market carries at least four genuinely different products under the same word, priced anywhere from a few hundred rupees to several lakhs. Knowing which is which is basic consumer literacy. Unlike every other gem in the trade, a pearl is not mined and not cut. It grows inside a living mollusc, layer by layer, as nacre is deposited around an irritant. Its lustre, its surface and its durability all come from that nacre. Which is why learning how to identify real pearls starts with understanding how the nacre got there. Natural versus cultured: The distinction that sets the price A natural pearl forms without human involvement, when an irritant enters a mollusc by chance. These are extraordinarily rare. Historic Gulf fisheries, the source of what the Indian trade calls Basra pearls, are largely exhausted. That is why genuine natural pearls of any size now belong to the auction market rather than the retail one. A cultured pearl is grown in a farmed mollusc after a technician surgically inserts a nucleus, usually a shell bead, along with mantle tissue. The mollusc then does exactly what it would do naturally: it coats the intruder in nacre. The pearl that results is a real pearl. It is not an imitation. The cultured versus natural pearls question is about how the process began, not about whether the material is genuine. More than 99 per cent of pearls sold today are cultured. The practical consequence is nacre thickness. A natural pearl is nacre almost all the way through, while a bead-nucleated cultured pearl may carry only a thin layer over a large bead. That is why two pearls of identical size can differ enormously in lustre and durability. The four types of pearls you will actually meet • Freshwater pearls are grown in mussels, mostly in China, and make up the overwhelming majority of the affordable market. They are often tissue-nucleated, so the nacre is solid, and they tend to be less perfectly round. Colours run from white to peach and lavender. • Akoya pearls are saltwater pearls farmed principally in Japan and China. They are small, exceptionally round and mirror-bright, and they give the classic white pearl necklace its look. • South Sea pearls grow in the large Pinctada maxima oyster around Australia, Indonesia and the Philippines. They are the biggest commercial pearls, appearing in white, silver and a distinctive golden shade, with thick nacre, a soft satiny glow and the highest prices in cultured pearls. • Tahitian pearls come from the black-lipped oyster of French Polynesia. They are naturally dark, showing grey, green, aubergine and peacock overtones rather than a flat black. How pearls are graded Pearls are not graded on the 4Cs. Diamonds and coloured stones have their own frameworks, and we cover the coloured-stone version in the 5Cs of coloured gemstones. Pearl grading rests on seven factors: lustre, nacre thickness, surface quality, shape, colour, size and, for a strand, matching. Lustre is the one that decides value. Hold a pearl at arm’s length and look for a sharp, bright reflection with visible contrast between light and dark. A chalky, milky or flat appearance means thin or poorly deposited nacre, and no amount of perfect roundness compensates for it. Surface is judged by how few blemishes, pits and ridges interrupt the nacre, while shape runs from round through off-round, drop, button, baroque and circled. On a strand, matching means the consistency of size, colour and lustre across every bead, and it often costs more than any single pearl in the strand. Five ways to run a real pearl test at home 1. The tooth test. Rub the pearl gently against the edge of a front tooth. Nacre is microscopically layered and feels faintly gritty. Glass and plastic imitations feel glassy and smooth. 2. Look into the drill hole. Under a loupe, a real pearl shows a clean, sharply defined hole, often with a visible boundary between nacre and bead. Imitations tend to show chipped or flaking coating around the opening. 3. Check for imperfection. No two natural or cultured pearls are identical. A strand in which every bead is flawlessly uniform in shape, colour and surface is almost certainly manufactured. 4. Temperature and weight. Real pearls feel cool for a moment before warming, and denser than plastic beads of the same size. 5. Magnify the surface. At 10x, nacre shows a fine, slightly irregular grain. Imitations show a sprayed or painted surface, sometimes with visible orange-peel texture. These tests separate real from fake. They do not separate natural from cultured. That needs X-ray radiography at a gemmological laboratory to image the internal growth structure, and it is the only definitive answer. For anything sold as a natural or Basra pearl at a natural-pearl price, a lab report is not optional. Living with pearls Nacre is soft, at around 2.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs scale, and it is organic, which makes pearls the most vulnerable material in most jewellery boxes. Perfume, hairspray and cosmetics all attack it, so the old rule holds: pearls go on last and come off first. Never use an ultrasonic cleaner; wipe them with a soft damp cloth. Store them flat and away from harder stones, somewhere with a little humidity, because nacre can craze as it dries. Where pearls sit in a Gemmology Career Pearls catch students out, precisely because the usual instruments tell you less than they do with a faceted stone. Identification leans on close observation, surface reading and specialised imaging rather than a refractometer. That observational discipline is built through the Diploma in Gemmology and the gem identification certificate, and it is the foundation of laboratory and valuation work across the trade. If the technical side of gems
BIS Hallmarking and the Six-Digit HUID: What Every Gold Buyer Should Be Able to Read
Almost every gold buyer in India has now heard that jewellery must be hallmarked. Far fewer can actually read the marks. The stamps are tiny, they are usually tucked inside a bangle or on the back of a pendant, and the shop rarely walks you through them. Yet those three marks are the only independent statement of purity you will ever get on a piece of gold, and learning to read them takes about two minutes. A BIS hallmark on gold in India is not a brand, a guarantee of workmanship, or a valuation. It certifies one thing: that a sample from the piece was assayed at a BIS-recognised centre and found to contain the fineness of gold stamped on it. That is a narrower promise than most buyers assume, and a more useful one. The Three Marks on a Hallmarked Piece The hallmark was simplified in 2021. Older jewellery may carry four or five stamps, including the jeweller’s identification mark and the assaying centre’s mark. Anything hallmarked under the current system carries three: If any of the three is missing on gold jewellery bought new in a notified district, that is your first question at the counter, not an afterthought. Reading the purity grade: What 916 actually means The 916 hallmark meaning is the one buyers ask about most, and it is straightforward. The number is parts of gold per thousand. So: • 22K is stamped 22K916, which is 91.6 per cent gold • 18K is stamped 18K750, which is 75 per cent gold • 14K is stamped 14K585, which is 58.5 per cent gold • 20K is stamped 20K833, 23K is stamped 23K995, and 24K is stamped 24K999 The remaining percentage is alloy, usually copper, silver, zinc or palladium, and it is not an impurity. It is what makes gold hard enough to hold a stone or survive daily wear. Which karat suits which piece is a design decision as much as a purity one, and we have written about that trade-off separately in 22K, 18K or 14K: which karat for which piece. What the six-digit HUID is, and What it is not HUID stands for Hallmark Unique Identification. It is a six-digit alphanumeric code assigned to an individual article at the time of hallmarking, and no two pieces share one. Since April 2023, gold jewellery sold in notified districts must carry it. The HUID number meaning is often misread in two directions. It is not a purity grade, because the fineness is a separate mark. And it is not a certificate of quality, weight or design origin. What it is, is traceability: the code links the piece back to a record showing which jeweller registered it, which centre hallmarked it, and what purity it was assayed at. That record is what makes the mark verifiable rather than decorative. How to check a hallmark on gold in under a minute Anyone can verify a HUID without visiting a lab. The BIS Care app, published by the Bureau of Indian Standards and available free on both mobile platforms, has a “Verify HUID” function. You enter the six-digit code and it returns the registered jeweller, the hallmarking centre, the article type, its purity and the date it was hallmarked. Three habits make this useful rather than a party trick. Read the HUID off the piece yourself under the shop’s loupe, not from the invoice. Check that the purity the app returns matches both the stamp and the rate you are charged. And confirm the article description matches what is in your hand, because a code registered against a chain should not turn up on a ring. When the numbers do not match A mismatch is not always fraud. Codes get mistyped on invoices, and app records occasionally lag. But a HUID that returns nothing, returns a different purity, or returns a different article is a reason to pause the purchase rather than negotiate around it. Ask for the hallmarking certificate, ask which centre assayed the piece, and if the answers are vague, walk. Consumers can also raise a complaint through BIS directly. That mechanism exists precisely because the mark is meant to be checkable by the buyer, not only by the trade. One older practice worth knowing: gold sold as “KDM” was soldered with cadmium, a hazardous method since phased out. KDM is not a purity grade, and it never substitutes for a hallmark. Why this belongs in a jeweller’s training, not just a buyer’s From the other side of the counter, hallmark literacy is a sales skill. A salesperson who can hand a customer a loupe, point out the triangle, explain 916 against 750 and pull up the HUID on the app closes high-value gold purchases that a scripted pitch loses. It converts suspicion into confidence, which is the actual job on a gold counter. That is why purity, assaying and valuation sit inside the gold appraiser and retail training programmes at IIGJ rather than being treated as back-office knowledge, and why diamond and gemstone grading runs through the Diploma in Gemmology and the professional certificate courses. If you are weighing a career on the technical side of the trade, the gemmology and gem identification route is where this kind of reading becomes a profession. Learning to read three small stamps will not make anyone a gemmologist. It will, however, mean you never again buy gold on trust alone. And if you are considering the industry as a career, it is the first piece of professional knowledge worth owning. You can see the full range of programmes on the programs page or start an enquiry through admissions.
Wedding Season 2026: Jewellery Trends That Will Define the Year
The 2026 wedding season is expected to reflect a clear shift in how jewellery is approached. It is no longer driven solely by scale or tradition, but by thoughtful styling, versatility and long-term usability. Jewellery is being chosen not just for the occasion, but for how it performs across multiple moments. At the centre of this shift is a design-first approach, where pieces are both visually impactful and practically wearable. Statement jewellery is being reimaginedChokers paired with layered necklaces, particularly in Polki and Kundan, are expected to remain dominant. However, the emphasis will be on achieving a sense of grandeur without excessive weight. Brides are increasingly prioritising jewellery that photographs well, remains comfortable through extended ceremonies and delivers a strong visual presence. Jadau and antique finishes are also set to see renewed relevance, especially for traditional ceremonies, but with more refined and balanced styling. A shift toward lightweight designHeavy jewellery is not disappearing, but its role is evolving. Brides, bridesmaids and guests are likely to prefer lighter, re-wearable pieces that extend beyond the wedding. Detachable elements, stackable designs and adaptable jewellery will become more prominent. This reflects a broader move toward practical luxury, where comfort and repeat usability are key considerations. Softer colour palettesAs bridal fashion continues to incorporate pastel tones and softer palettes, jewellery will follow a similar direction. Gemstones such as aquamarine, rose quartz and subtle emerald combinations are expected to complement traditional gold tones. The overall aesthetic is moving toward a more refined and balanced look. The evolving mangalsutraThe mangalsutra is being reinterpreted as a piece of everyday jewellery. Sleeker chains, minimal pendants and understated detailing are expected to define its evolution, making it more adaptable to contemporary lifestyles while retaining its symbolic value. Groom jewellery gains importanceGroom jewellery is becoming a considered part of wedding styling. Structured Kanthi malas, brooches, decorative button sets and minimal bracelets are emerging as key elements. The focus remains on balance and proportion, ensuring that jewellery complements the sherwani rather than overpowering it. This shift reflects a growing awareness of complete and cohesive styling for grooms. Styling as a strategic choiceAnother defining trend is the move from purchasing single heavy sets to curating jewellery across different functions. Brides are expected to select distinct pieces for mehendi, sangeet, wedding and reception, creating coordinated looks rather than relying on one set throughout. Final TakeWedding jewellery in 2026 is set to reflect a more considered consumer mindset. The emphasis is on combining design, comfort and long-term value. Jewellery is no longer limited to occasion wear but is increasingly seen as part of a broader, wearable collection. This evolution highlights how the industry is aligning more closely with modern lifestyles while maintaining its connection to tradition.
IIGJ and IIT Madras Partner to Advance Lab Grown Diamond Education in India
India’s gems and jewellery industry is entering a new phase of innovation with the Indian Institute of Gems & Jewellery (IIGJ) partnering with the India Centre for Lab Grown Diamond (InCent-LGD), IIT Madras. Formalised through a Letter of Intent at VAIRAM 2026, this collaboration marks a significant step toward structured lab grown diamond (LGD) education in India. The Letter of Intent, signed by Mr. Debasish Biswas, CEO of IIGJ, and Prof. M. S. Ramachandra Rao, Head of InCent-LGD, IIT Madras, brings together industry-led jewellery education and advanced scientific research. The objective is clear: to build a strong talent pipeline equipped with expertise in lab grown diamond technology, jewellery manufacturing, and materials science. Bridging Industry and Academia in LGD Technology As part of this initiative, IIGJ and IIT Madras will introduce certification and diploma programmes in lab grown diamond technology. These programmes are designed to combine practical jewellery training with research-driven academic knowledge, offering a comprehensive understanding of LGD production, grading, applications, and innovation. This integrated approach ensures that students and professionals gain both technical expertise and hands-on industry exposure, making them industry-ready for the rapidly growing lab grown diamond sector in India. Meeting the Demand of a Growing LGD Market The global lab grown diamond market is expanding at a rapid pace, driven by technological advancements, evolving consumer preferences, and increasing demand for sustainable jewellery. India, already a global leader in diamond cutting and polishing, is now strengthening its position in LGD manufacturing and innovation. This collaboration directly addresses the need for skilled professionals trained in modern diamond technologies. By aligning education with industry requirements, IIGJ and IIT Madras are supporting the long-term growth of the Indian gems and jewellery industry. Strengthening Jewellery Education in India For the Indian Institute of Gems & Jewellery, this partnership reinforces its commitment to future-focused education as IIGJ continues to evolve its curriculum to include emerging areas like lab grown diamonds and sustainable practices. At the same time, IIT Madras, through InCent-LGD, contributes cutting-edge research in diamond growth technologies and advanced materials. Together, the two institutions create a powerful ecosystem for innovation, skill development and knowledge exchange. A Step Toward Future-Ready Talent This partnership reflects a broader shift toward industry-academia collaboration in the jewellery sector, where education is closely aligned with real-world industry needs. Such initiatives not only enhance India’s global competitiveness but also open up new career opportunities in lab grown diamonds, jewellery technology, and sustainable luxury. As the LGD segment continues to grow, the demand for trained professionals will only increase. Structured programmes like these will play a key role in shaping the next generation of jewellery professionals and diamond technologists. Shaping the Future of Lab Grown Diamond Education With this collaboration announced at VAIRAM 2026, lab grown diamond education in India is becoming more structured, research-driven, and industry-aligned. It signals a strong move toward building capabilities that match global standards. For those looking to build a career in the evolving lab grown diamond and jewellery industry, the right education is essential. Explore specialised programmes at the Indian Institute of Gems & Jewellery (IIGJ) and take the first step toward a future in this fast-growing sector.
IIGJ Showcases Practice-Led Education at IIJS Bharat Signature 2026
The Indian Institute of Gems & Jewellery marked a high-impact presence at IIJS Bharat 2026, held from 9 to 12 January 2026. With a dedicated and thoughtfully designed stall, IIGJ positioned itself at the heart of one of the largest and most influential gatherings in the gems and jewellery industry. The exhibition served as a critical platform for the institute to engage directly with the industry ecosystem while showcasing its education-led approach. Diverse Footfall and Strong Academic Interest Across the exhibition days, the IIGJ stall witnessed steady and diverse footfall, drawing industry professionals, aspiring students, parents, alumni, and general visitors. There was consistent interest in IIGJ’s Undergraduate, Postgraduate, and short-term programmes, with visitors seeking clarity on curriculum structure, hands-on training methodologies, and long-term career pathways within the gems and jewellery sector. Faculty members and students played an active role in these conversations, offering grounded, first-hand insights into academic rigor, industry exposure, and skill-based learning. Student-Led Live Demonstrations as a Core Highlight A major attraction at the stall was the series of live demonstrations conducted by students from IIGJ Mumbai. These sessions created strong visual appeal and sustained engagement throughout the exhibition. Demonstrations included live wire jewellery and bead jewellery making, jewellery rendering, 3D jewellery modelling interactions, and live portrait sketching. Together, these activities reflected IIGJ’s practice-oriented pedagogy, highlighting not only technical proficiency but also creativity, confidence, and the ability to engage with real-world audiences. Leadership Presence Reinforcing Industry Credibility The stall was further elevated by visits from senior institutional leaders and key industry representatives. Esteemed visitors included Mr. Anil Sankhwal, Mr. Naval K Agarwal, Mr. Sanjay Kala, Mr. Milan Chokshi and Mr. Sabyasachi Ghosh. Their presence encouraged students, strengthened industry confidence, and reaffirmed IIGJ’s standing as a credible and well-aligned academic institution within the sector. Interactive Engagement Beyond the Stall Adding an element of interaction and excitement, the “Spin the Wheel” contest emerged as a popular engagement initiative. Visitors participated by answering gems and jewellery-related questions, with daily lucky draw winners announced. The activity not only increased dwell time but also encouraged repeat visits, making learning and engagement both accessible and enjoyable. The impact of IIGJ’s presence at IIJS Bharat 2026 extended beyond visibility and engagement. Every interaction, demonstration, and enquiry reflected the institute’s focus on structured learning, hands-on training, and career-oriented education.
IIGJ Jaipur Wins Best Institute Display Award at Jaipur Jewellery Show 2025
The Jaipur Jewellery Show (JJS) is one of India’s largest and most influential gems and jewellery exhibitions, bringing together fine jewellery, gemstones, design innovation, and industry expertise under one roof. Held annually in Jaipur, a city globally recognised for its gemstone heritage and craftsmanship, JJS has become a key platform for both business exchange and knowledge sharing within the jewellery ecosystem. The 2025 edition of the show was held from 19th to 22nd of December 2025 at the Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre, continuing its legacy as a landmark event for the industry. Jaipur Jewellery Show as an Industry and Learning Platform Over the years, JJS has evolved beyond a traditional trade exhibition. Alongside showcasing fine jewellery, gemstones, and emerging innovations, the show also functioned as an educational platform for students, young designers, and aspiring entrepreneurs. Visitors gained first-hand exposure to current jewellery trends, design techniques, production standards, and market dynamics. Design festivals, curated showcases, and professional interactions allowed participants to understand how creativity, craftsmanship, and commerce intersect in the real world of gems and jewellery. For students and budding designers, JJS offered valuable opportunities to observe industry practices up close, interact with experienced professionals, and gain practical insights into jewellery manufacturing, merchandising, branding, and business development. These experiences played a critical role in bridging the gap between academic learning and industry expectations. A Prestigious Recognition at a National Platform The Indian Institute of Gems & Jewellery marked a standout presence at the Jaipur Jewellery Show 2025, with IIGJ Jaipur being honoured with the Best Institute Display Award. At the event, IIGJ presented student work, creative design showcases, and engaged in industry-led conversations as part of the Jaipur Jewellery Design Festival (JJDF). The institute’s presence reflected its continued focus on industry-aligned education and hands-on learning. Visitors explored student-led design displays that highlighted technical skill, creativity, and contemporary thinking. The IIGJ pavilion also served as a space for discussions around jewellery careers, evolving industry requirements, and structured pathways in jewellery design, gemmology, and manufacturing. The Best Institute Display Award was presented to IIGJ Jaipur by Prem Chand Bairwa, marking a proud moment for the institute, its students, and faculty. This recognition highlighted IIGJ Jaipur’s excellence in visual presentation, creative storytelling, and the ability to translate academic learning into impactful, industry-relevant displays. At a platform as competitive and influential as JJS, the award reinforced IIGJ’s position as a leading institution in jewellery education and design. This recognition reflected IIGJ’s commitment to excellence in jewellery education, strong visual presentation, and the ability to translate learning into impactful creative displays. It also reinforced the institute’s emphasis on industry relevance, innovation, and professional standards. Bridging Education and Industry Expectations The award-winning display stood as a reflection of IIGJ’s academic philosophy, where hands-on learning, visual communication, and real-world application are integral to the curriculum. For students, participation in JJS offered valuable exposure to professional standards, market expectations, and evolving design sensibilities. For industry professionals and visitors, it demonstrated how structured education can translate into skilled, confident, and industry-ready talent. Preparing Future-Ready Jewellery Professionals Events like the Jaipur Jewellery Show play a critical role in shaping future professionals by offering exposure to global trends, consumer preferences, and business realities. IIGJ’s recognition at JJS 2025 reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing talent that is not only creative but also industry-aware and professionally equipped. To learn more about jewellery education programmes and career pathways at IIGJ, visit www.iigj.org.
How Gen Z Is Shaping the Future of Jewellery
Jewellery has become one of the strongest forms of identity for Gen Z, a generation that values self-expression, purpose and personal meaning in every choice they make. Earrings, especially, have evolved into a style signature rather than an accessory. Their preferences are reshaping the jewellery market, influencing designers, brands and even jewellery education. This shift is also reflected in the kind of learning young talent seeks today at IIGJ emphasising design thinking, sustainability, materials understanding and trend interpretation that match the evolving landscape. Gen Z’s approach to jewellery goes beyond fashion. It blends comfort, creativity, values and technology. Here’s a sharper look at what’s shaping their choices. 1. Minimalist Style, Maximum Versatility Gen Z gravitates toward clean, simple silhouettes that pair with everything. Think sleek bangles, minimal rings, soft chains, and lightweight everyday pieces. These accessories fit into a lifestyle that values comfort and consistency, without losing aesthetic intent. 2. Statement Pieces: Sculptural and Playfully Bold When they want impact, Gen Z chooses sculptural shapes, asymmetric designs and exaggerated forms. These earrings and bracelets elevate basics instantly and reflect a preference for individuality over trend-following. 3. Sustainable Jewellery: Style with Purpose Recycled metals, lab grown diamonds and ethically sourced stones resonate strongly with this generation. Sustainability is no longer a niche preference, it is a key buying consideration. 4. Chains and Neck Pieces Take Center Stage Chunky Cuban links, slim box chains, layered neck stacks, pendants with personal symbols is becoming one of Gen Z’s strongest fashion languages. Today, everyone uses chains to define their aesthetic, whether bold, soft or experimental. 5. Layering Culture: Personal Stories in Stacks Layered necklaces, stacked rings, mixed-metal bracelets and curated ear stacks are now everyday styling. Layering lets Gen Z build a look that evolves with mood and moment, making accessories feel personal instead of prescriptive. 6. Mixed Metals: Blending Tones and Textures Gold with silver, silver with platinum. Gen Z is comfortable mixing metals to create layered, textured looks that feel modern and expressive. 7. Vintage Revival: Old-School With a Twist Retro hoops, 90s-inspired shapes and Y2K silhouettes are returning with contemporary finishes. Nostalgia remains a powerful design influence. 8. Customised Jewellery: Personal Stories Made Wearable Initials, nameplates, birthstones and personalised motifs hold strong emotional value. Gen Z gravitates toward jewellery that feels like an extension of their identity. Where This All Leads Gen Z’s choices are reshaping how accessories are designed, produced and marketed. Their focus on authenticity, innovation and values is influencing brands, manufacturing practices and even how the industry approaches design thinking and craftsmanship. Jewellery today is no longer just about form. It reflects cultural shifts, personal identity and changing expectations around sustainability and expression.
Why the Jewellery Industry Is a Brilliant Career Choice
The global jewellery market continues to grow steadily, driven by rising demand for unique, meaningful and high-value pieces. For creative professionals, the industry offers a rare opportunity to combine artistic skill with business potential. As consumer preferences shift toward personalised design, ethical sourcing and innovative craftsmanship, the jewellery sector has become one of the most promising spaces for young talent. This blend of creativity and commerce has opened the door to new career paths that go beyond traditional design roles. Whether you are drawn to gemstones, digital tools, merchandising or brand building, the industry offers a wide spectrum of opportunities that reward both imagination and skill and IIGJ as an institution plays a key role in preparing the next generation of professionals to thrive in this evolving landscape. A Market Full of Opportunities The global jewellery market continues to grow steadily and is projected to reach USD 480-500 billion by 2030, while India remains one of the world’s strongest jewellery economies with a market valued at USD 85-90 billion. Demand is increasingly driven by distinctive, story-led pieces, with rising interest in coloured gemstones such as turquoise and opals. Consumers today value rarity, craftsmanship and cultural relevance, giving designers and creators greater freedom to innovate beyond traditional formats. At the same time, digital retail has removed entry barriers for independent designers and small brands, enabling global reach without physical stores. Another key shift is the rapid growth of men’s and gender-neutral jewellery, including chains, bracelets and statement pieces, reflecting changing fashion norms and Gen Z’s comfort with self-expression. Together, these trends have expanded career possibilities across design, gemmology, manufacturing and merchandising, making the jewellery industry one of the most opportunity-rich creative sectors today. Understanding Today’s Jewellery Landscape The jewellery industry is evolving in three major directions. – First, sustainability is becoming a defining factor in buying decisions. Consumers want to know where materials come from and whether they are responsibly sourced. – Second, personalisation is more important than ever. Custom-made jewellery, handmade pieces and one-of-a-kind gemstone selections are in high demand. – Third, blended retail is reshaping the market. Traditional stores remain influential, but online platforms now play a major role in product discovery and purchase. Together, these factors create an ecosystem where creativity, craftsmanship and market knowledge work together to shape successful careers. How Creativity Drives Value Jewellery sits at the intersection of design and commerce. Designers need to create pieces that are aesthetically pleasing while also understanding their commercial potential. Online marketplaces have made it easier for artisans to showcase their work. Visibility is no longer restricted to local buyers. Global audiences can now discover new styles, techniques and interpretations through digital platforms. For creative professionals, this means a wider reach, a stronger brand presence and direct access to customers who value originality. Skills That Are Building Strong Careers As the industry becomes more specialised, structured education is playing a crucial role in preparing professionals for real-world challenges. Training programs in gemmology, CAD design, diamond grading, merchandising and manufacturing help students understand both the technical and artistic sides of the industry. Strong foundational learning allows creative individuals to move confidently into roles such as jewellery designers, merchandisers, gemmologists, entrepreneurs, CAD specialists or retail professionals. With the right guidance and exposure, students can build careers that are not only creatively fulfilling but also financially rewarding. A Growing Space for Creative Talent The jewellery industry continues to expand with new technologies, evolving customer expectations and a global marketplace that values originality. For creative professionals, it is a space where ideas become tangible products. As global markets open up and new categories emerge, from coloured gemstones to gender-neutral jewellery, the scope for innovation continues to grow. Success in this space increasingly belongs to those who combine creative vision with technical skill, industry awareness and an understanding of how jewellery is designed, produced and experienced today.
IIGJ Jaipur Educational Tour 2025: Learning Kundan Meena Craft in Bikaner
The IIGJ Jaipur students took an educational tour to Bikaner from 21st to 23rd November 2025 that offered students a meaningful blend of craft learning, cultural exploration and practical understanding. The purpose of the tour was to help students see how traditional Kundan Meena jewellery is made in real settings and to give them a closer look at the heritage that continues to influence Indian design today. Day 1: Exploring the roots of Kundan MeenaThe first day began with a visit to a Kundan Meena manufacturing unit where students observed the early stages of jewellery making. Techniques such as Ghat making, Jadai and engraving were demonstrated by skilled artisans. Watching the process closely helped students understand how much discipline, attention and patience go into pieces that often appear effortless. Many students noted that seeing these steps live gave them a new appreciation for the craft they study in classrooms. Day 2: Engraving, enamelling and meeting the makersThe second day focused on advanced processes including engraving and enamelling. The morning session allowed students to observe the detailed work that defines Bikaner’s traditional identity. Later in the day, they interacted with artisans and jewellers who shared their experiences and spoke about the challenges and rewards of working in the jewellery industry. The evening visit to a jewellery unit allowed students to see exclusive pieces being created right in front of them. The exposure helped them understand how ideas move from concept to final product in a professional environment. Day 3: Heritage visit to Junagarh Fort The final day was dedicated to exploring Junagarh Fort, one of Bikaner’s most significant heritage sites. The visit helped students understand the historical and architectural influences that often inspire jewellery design. The fort’s details, motifs and artwork offered a fresh perspective on how culture and history continue to guide creative expression. A meaningful experience beyond the classroomBy the end of the tour, students had gained a deeper understanding of Kundan Meena craftsmanship and the cultural environment that sustains it. Our students also understood how traditional skills continue to remain relevant alongside modern tools and techniques.The trip helped them connect theoretical learning with real practice, observe the discipline required in professional units and understand the value of precise workmanship. The educational tour to Bikaner added a memorable chapter to their learning journey. It strengthened their foundation, broadened their perspective and encouraged them to look at jewellery as both an art and a legacy passed through generations. Experiences like these are an essential part of learning at Indian Institute of Gems and Jewellery. With industry visits, craft immersions and hands-on practical training across jewellery design, gemmology and manufacturing, we ensure students grow through real exposure as much as classroom learning. Begin your journey with IIGJ and build the skills that shape future jewellery professionals
IIGJ Universe Celebrates Diwali with a Festive Jewellery Quiz
Celebrating Light, Learning and Legacy This Diwali, IIGJ Universe decided to add a little sparkle to the celebrations with #KhushiyonKiDiwali, a one-of-a-kind festive jewellery quiz that brought together students, alumni, and jewellery lovers from across the country. What began as a fun way to mix curiosity with celebration quickly became one of the most engaging and talked-about moments on IIGJ’s Instagram. Connecting Through Celebration The idea behind #KhushiyonKiDiwali was rooted in connection, to bring the IIGJ community closer, celebrate its shared passion for jewellery and create moments of learning that felt joyful and interactive. As an institution that stands for both craftsmanship and creativity, IIGJ wanted to go beyond classrooms and showcase how jewellery knowledge could unite people through a common love for art and culture. And it did just that. Over two lively weeks, the quiz transformed the comments section into a hub of excitement. The comments section came alive as students and alumni actively participated, shared ideas and celebrated jewellery knowledge together. IIGJ’s socials felt more like a grand community gathering than a contest. Each quiz reel featured questions inspired by gemstones, design history and traditional craftsmanship, encouraging participants to engage with heritage in a fresh, playful way. How It Worked Held from October 15 to October 31, the campaign featured three thoughtfully designed quiz-led initiatives inspired by Indian artistry, symbolism and jewellery heritage. Each interaction encouraged participants to reflect on traditional craftsmanship, gemstones and design history through a festive lens. Across the campaign period, the initiative fostered curiosity, learning and meaningful participation within the IIGJ community. The campaign concluded with the selection of two winners, who were awarded ₹5,000 gift vouchers, adding a celebratory close to an initiative rooted in knowledge and cultural appreciation. A Celebration to Remember #KhushiyonKiDiwali wasn’t just a campaign; it became a community moment. Students and alumni across institutions and jewellery enthusiasts joined in making IIGJ’s feed a space buzzing with ideas, enthusiasm and festive energy. Diwali-inspired reels captured the true spirit of Indian Institute of Gems and Jewellery rooted in heritage yet driven by creativity. The overwhelming response in the form of love we received is where we bring curiosity, culture and celebration together, magic happens. This Diwali, IIGJ didn’t just celebrate the festival of light, it lit up conversations and connections that will last far beyond the festive season.