SPOTLIGHT: The Jewellery Trend Report 2021
Whether worn as an accessory or an ally, diamonds express how we feel and who we are. Natural Diamond Council India’s first-ever trend report showcases diamonds like you have never seen before. Hope it inspires you to wear your personality, and more importantly, have fun with jewellery.
The last year has been one of reflection. Of review. Of remembrance. As we found ourselves isolated at home, I would like to believe that we realised the value of connection. From Zoom calls to socially-distanced walks in the park, little by little we have taken steps to come together. And from this slowness has come a renewed sense of hope, optimism, and strength. A gratitude for the present. So it is no surprise that the biggest jewellery trends for 2021 are a clear expression of this period. The lessons we learnt. Take the case of shoulder dusters and statements cuffs—these attention-grabbing pieces are all about being in the present. Geometric design, another big trend, comes from a strong desire for order—and given the uncertainty we have faced, it makes sense that we desire the logic of symmetry. In an ever-changing world, I would also like to think that we have finally blurred the lines. Which is why jewellery is now shared. Men and women wear the same pieces, but in a very individualistic manner. But my favourite trend is the new heirloom. Jewellery is an emotion. It is handed down from generation to generation. Collected lovingly, polished carefully, every time you hold it or wear it you are reminded of where you come from. It is said diamonds hold memories. Today, diamonds also hold stories. Which is perhaps why, even during the pandemic, jewellery buying rose. There was a desire to make a connection with the future. To tell a new story. Of a new aesthetic.
Jewellery: Akshara (L) – Jaipur Gems & Harakh, Zomkyi (R) – Bina Goenka.
These were the details that were discussed by the Style Collective, comprising the finest names in fashion, design, and journalism. Over Zoom calls at all hours of the day. From New York to New Delhi, from London to Paris, from Mumbai to Baroda, we debated the future of jewellery. HH Maharani Radhikaraje Gaekwad of Baroda, historian, writer, and authority on the heritage of Indian jewellery, brought her in-depth knowledge and research to the table. Roohi Oomerbhoy Jaikishan, entrepreneur and purveyor of fine things, lent her elegant aesthetic. Award-winning actor and trained Bharatnatyam dancer Aditi Rao Hydari added whimsical, romantic stories. Anaita Shroff Adajania defined the fashion, with sharp insight and personal recollections. New York-based designer Bibhu Mohapatra, who also designs a collection of jewellery, weighed in with his sensitivity. We also had Katerina Perez, trained gemologist, freelance journalist, and content editor, add global authority. Along with Sarah Royce-Greensill, jewellery and watches editor at The Telegraph UK.
We shared memories, swapped stories, got personal, talked business. And concluded that diamonds hold a special place in our hearts. It could be an engagement ring or a piece you inherited, or something you selected for yourself (because you deserve it), whatever the case may be, it is clear that we are ready to own our narrative. Shape our future. And natural diamonds, ethically sourced, will always be that forever.
I hope you enjoy this first-ever Trend Report for India.
