IIGJ Mumbai’s Inaugural Alumni Reunion Celebrates Outstanding Achievements at IIJS Premiere 2023
The Indian Institute of Gems & Jewellery (IIGJ) Mumbai, a premier institution renowned for its excellence in gem and jewellery education, hosted its very first alumni reunion at the prestigious Launch Pad of the India International Jewellery Show (IIJS) Premiere 2023 (Bombay Exhibition Centre) on August 6, 2023. The event was a remarkable celebration of the institute’s 20-year’ legacy and its talented alumni, recognizing their exceptional contributions to the industry and providing a platform for alumni to reconnect, collaborate and share their experiences, ultimately contributing to the industry’s collective growth and development. The IIGJ Mumbai Alumni Reunion brought together graduates, industry professionals and dignitaries in a spirited and nostalgic gathering and showcased the significant impact that IIGJ Mumbai alumni have made in the world of gems and jewellery. The event was graced with the presence of Mr. Amit Pratihari (VP, De Beers Forevermark, India), Ms. Nirupa Bhatt (Expert/Consultant Jewellery Industry), Mr. Laksh Pahuja (Jewellery Design Expert) Mr. Milan Chokshi (Chairman, IIGJ Mumbai), Mr. Punit Mehta (Director, IIGJ Mumbai) and other dignitaries. IIGJ Mumbai Alumni Awards, honouring outstanding alumni who have demonstrated exemplary achievements and dedication to the industry, were announced. The winners of the inaugural awards are as follows: Mr. Ravish Shah, recipient of the Rising Star Award, has demonstrated creative, innovative and rapid progress as a professional. His dedication to pushing creative boundaries and contributing to the industry’s growth has earned him this recognition. Ms. Jinal Marjadi, the winner of the Emerging Entrepreneur Award, has demonstrated exceptional entrepreneurial spirit and determination in establishing her jewellery brand. She has successfully carved a niche by combining business savvy with a deep appreciation for artistic integrity. Mr. Neel Pethe, honoured with the Alumni Service Award, has demonstrated outstanding dedication to the IIGJ Mumbai community and the larger jewellery industry. His continued engagement and support for the institute’s initiatives have significantly contributed to its growth and success. Speaking about the Alumni Meet, Head of the Institute, Mr. Bharat Vaswani, said “This is a historic, first-of-its-kind event at IIGJ Mumbai. Our alumni are our ambassadors in the world of gems and jewellery and represent the lasting impact made by our institute in the industry. The event represents our pride and joy in their achievements. These awards reflect the multifaceted impact our alumni have on the world, and they inspire current students to strive for excellence in their own pursuits. On behalf of IIGJ Mumbai I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the award winners and express our gratitude to the gems and jewellery fraternity for their continued support. The institute looks forward to future alumni meets that will undoubtedly strengthen its bonds with the industry and create new avenues for collaboration and success.”
Annual Exhibition of Jewellery by Graduating Students, IIGJ Mumbai
Dates: 7th to 9th July 2022 The eagerly awaited annual exhibition of the Indian Institute of Gems & Jewellery (IIGJ) Mumbai, known as Glimpz, was inaugurated on 7th July 2022, at IIGJ Campus, MIDC, Andheri East, Mumbai 400093. Each year the Glimpz exhibition showcases brilliant, trendsetting designs created by graduating students of the prestigious institution. Each design on display not only undergoes a rigorous process of evaluation by in-house faculty but is also assessed by renowned industry experts. Theme: This year’s theme for the Batch 2019-2022 was “Nisarga…Unveiling Nature”, based on creative exploration of the awe-inspiring wonders of nature. At the beginning of the project, students were divided into 6 groups and given themes: Texture Nouveau, Extraterrestrial, Expression of Rust, Bio-Essence, Ombré Oeuvre and Geometric Haul. They were encouraged to get their inspiration from nature. From visualisation of each of their 5 pieces of jewellery to manufacturing and finishing their products and displaying them in unique ways. 2 of the 5 pieces are handmade and the balance 3 are made by casting. IIGJ’s long-standing connection with the industry was further strengthened by 2 renowned gem and jewellery companies providing support: 1. Kamaschachter – Mentored the students for design development according to industry standards, and, 2. Sun Jewels –Sponsored the CAM part of the production process. Award Categories and Winners: Best Design Collection – Ms. Prachi Shah Best Craftsmanship (Handmade) – Ms. Sanjana Singha Best Craftsmanship (Casted) – Mr. Aman Agarwal Best Commercially Viable Collection – Ms. Hriti Kothari & Ms. Aboli Sharma Best Innovative Product (Pendant & Ring) – Mr. Suryansh Garg Best Visual Merchandising (Group) – Extraterrestrial (Ms.Heer Shah, Ms.Vaishnavi Divate, Mr.Sourav Rana, Ms.Ayushi Dhariwal, Ms.Diya Rathod and Mr.Suryansh Garg) Best Lookbook – Ms. Diya Rathod Chief Guest Mr. Colin Shah, Chairman, GJEPC: Speaking at the Awards Ceremony held on 9th July 2022, Mr. Colin Shah said, “I am happy to know that there has been an inclusive effort from the institute and other stakeholders to train the students and make them ready for the industry. I am impressed with the skills exhibited by the graduating students setting benchmark for the future graduating students.” Members of the Jury Panel: Ms. Nirupa Bhatt, Consultant and Coach to the gems & jewellery industry, Ms. Sonia Grinceri, who was the Regional Director of the Western Australian Government Trade and Investment Office, India from 2001 to 2006. She started her career as a high school teacher in Australia and has been passionate about education since. She expressed her admiration for the well-designed curriculum at IIGJ. Mr. Dharmesh Rathod, Merchandiser (Product Development), Malabar Gold & Diamonds. RECENT NEWS IIGJ Mumbai’s Inaugural Alumni Reunion Celebrates Outstanding Achievements at IIJS Premiere 2023 Graduating Designers of IIGJ Mumbai Celebrated at Prestigious Awards Ceremony at IIJS Premiere 2023 Launch Pad Tuhin Ghosh, IIGJ Mumbai Final Year Student Selected as First Runner Up at the Artisan Awards 2023 Article in JewelBuzz-4th March 2023 re. PG5, 6, 7 Convocation ceremony Feature on IIGJ Mumbai Students’ creations in SVAR-February 2023 HOI’s interview in SVAR-February 2023
IIGJ Delhi Participates in State-Level Career Conclave
28.1.2022, New Delhi: “Career Conclave” was organized by the Delhi Directorate of Education (DoE) from Monday, 28th Jan 2022. The four-day conclave provided a platform to a number of public & private educational institutions, universities (both govt. & semi govt.) along with para military forces. The Career Conclave was Inaugurated by Mr. Manish Sisodia, Deputy CM, Delhi. IIGJ Delhi participated to provide career guidance and showcase career opportunities to Class 12 students at the Conclave.
ORRA collaborates with IIGJ Mumbai for Retail Trainee Scheme
6.3.2021, Mumbai: ORRA Fine Jewellery collaborated with IIGJ Mumbai to deliver its Graduate Retail Trainee Programme.The intensive, 2-week programme from 22nd February to 6th March 2021 was conducted by IIGJ faculty of design, gemmology and manufacturing departments and ORRA sales team members at the Institute. The first batch of 24 students from various locations were trained, certified and placed in various stores of ORRA.