Design is the soul of jewellery; rather it’s at the core of creativity. An artistically designed jewellery piece can charm even the toughest and the most critical minds. So, in order get one-of-a-kind, great designs evaluated by the best critical minds in the country, Indian Jeweller magazine recently conducted grand jury meet for the 8th edition of JJS-IJ Jewellers Choice Design Awards (JJS-IJCDA).

Over 600 designs have participated in the IJ Awards this year. From these, over 100 designs were evaluated by the eminent jury who travelled from all corners of Mumbai during the rush hours.

This year, the jury panel included Nirupa Bhatt, MD-GIA India & Middle East, Rajiv Jain, JJS Secretary and Chairman of Sambhav Gems, Poonam Soni, Jewellery Designer, Rhea Nasta, Jewellery Designer, Shantanu Garg,Interior Designer, Raziya Kunj, Jewellery Designer and Sasha Merchant, Model.

Entries had to be evaluated on the basis of innovation, wearability, uniqueness, finishing, design and craftsmanship. ‘It is good to see a lot of jewellery designers and manufacturers using new gemstones and techniques in the jewellery. With IJ Awards, a lot of new designers and manufacturers get encouragement and motivation,’ said Rajiv Jain, Secretary, JJS & Chairman, Sambhav Gems.

‘The way some of the designers have combined colour stones, enamel and innovative techniques is absolutely beautiful. Jewellery has to define a woman. So when jewellery becomes part of the woman who is wearing it, that is the best thing about jewellery,’ says Nirupa Bhatt, MD - GIA India & Middle East.

From jewellery crafted in emeralds and mother of pearls to stunning kundan-meena and polki pieces, the jury witnessed a veritable range of jewellery pieces with beautiful craftsmanship. ‘It is my second time as a judge for IJ Awards. I see a lot of international elements used in the jewellery designing this time. The woman of today wants comfort and the jewellery designers and manufacturers have to keep that in mind while creating a jewellery piece,’ said Poonam Soni, Jewellery Designer.

All the finalists will be awarded in a gala ceremony to be held in Jaipur on 21st December 2018.