The 17th edition of the India International Jewellery Show (IIJS) Signature 2025 opened on December 4, 2025, with elegance and scale that reflect the ambition and vibrancy of India’s gem and jewellery industry. Organised by the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), the event takes place across two premier venues this year: the Jio World Convention Centre (JWCC) from 4th to 7th January and the Bombay Exhibition Centre (BEC) from 5th to 8th January, with over 1,500 exhibitors and 3,000 stalls spread across a vast 125,000+ square metre area.

This year’s IIJS Signature has attracted over 25,000 trade visitors from more than 800 cities across India and some 60 countries worldwide, reinforcing its stature as a global hub for jewellery innovation, business networking, and industry growth.

A Vision for a Developed India

Vipul Shah, Chairman of the GJEPC, inaugurated the event with a keynote address aligning the IIJS Signature with the national vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India). Shah highlighted the importance of integrating traditional skills with cutting-edge technology to ensure the sustained growth of India’s jewellery sector.

“At GJEPC, we are committed to four pillars for the growth and sustainability of the sector: skill development, innovation and technology, infrastructure, and industry standards,” Shah stated. He elaborated on GJEPC’s role as the nodal agency for the PM Vishwakarma Yojana, operating training centres in Udupi, Jaipur, and Guwahati, where over 400 artisans have been trained.

He further underscored GJEPC’s continued focus on education and skill development, mentioning, “Our commitment is further reflected through the Council-run Institutes of IIJS in Mumbai, Jaipur, and Delhi, along with satellite training centres in Varanasi, Udupi, and Ratnagiri. We have also applied for Deemed University status for IIJS and are confident that this milestone will be achieved within the next few months, solidifying our position as a global hub for gem and jewellery education.”

Technology and Infrastructure: Key to Industry Growth

Shah emphasised the technological advancements propelling the industry forward, crediting government support for fostering innovation. “The Central and State governments have provided exceptional support for technological advancement,” he noted.

He cited a significant government grant of ?242 crore awarded to the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) for the establishment of the Gold and Diamond Research and Innovation Centre. “Senior Professor M.S. Rao from IIT Madras will lead a seminar today on the importance of Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) and High-Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) methods in making India the number one hub for producing industry-grade diamonds,” he announced.

Additionally, Shah highlighted the establishment of the Mega Common Facility Centre (CFC) in Surat, describing it as “a cornerstone for the region, equipping our artisans with advanced technology and skill development tools to elevate the manufacturing landscape.” Shah also announced two landmark initiatives during the inauguration. Highlighting India’s leadership as the largest manufacturer of diamonds, he revealed that GJEPC has invested Rs.150 crores in the global generic promotion of diamonds till date. To strengthen this effort, GJEPC has partnered with De Beers for promotion of diamonds through Retail Alliance in India, with a formal MoU to be signed at a special event on January 7th. Additionally, in a move to boost gem and jewellery exports via e-commerce, GJEPC will be signing an MoU with DHL Express, the global leader in international express services, to facilitate the efficient shipping of India-crafted jewellery worldwide.

Growth and Evolution of IIJS

Nirav Bhansali, Convenor of National Exhibitions at GJEPC, reflected on IIJS’s evolution over the years, emphasising its transformation into a global benchmark.

“When we reflect on the journey of IIJS, it’s truly extraordinary. Back in 2022, the combined IIJS show featured 2,538 companies and 4,367 stalls. Fast forward to today, those numbers have nearly doubled to 4,682 companies and 8,529 stalls. It’s not just growth in size but in impact. This phenomenal expansion is a testament to the industry’s vision and commitment to excellence,” Bhansali remarked.

He credited the success of IIJS to innovation, strategic planning, and creating a world-class experience for exhibitors and buyers alike. “The dual-venue format has redefined convenience and accessibility for attendees, allowing them to explore the industry’s finest offerings effortlessly,” he noted.

International Collaboration

Among the international dignitaries was Umesh Pandey, Thailand’s Trade Representative and Guest of Honour, who highlighted the deep-rooted connections between the Indian and Thai jewellery industries.

“Like India, the gem and jewellery industry is an integral part of my country’s economic growth,” Pandey stated. “We are very open to business collaborations. My Prime Minister has instructed us to open up and push businesses to come and invest in our country. I stand before you, telling you that the Thai government is here to support you in every possible way to facilitate business and growth in our nation.”

Pandey added a personal note, reflecting on his cultural connection to India: “I always say I am a Thai Indian because I am more Thai than Indian. Yet, my first international speech comes on behalf of the country I was born in, Thailand, into a country where I originally belong, which is India. Truly, truly, truly, thank you for giving me this honour.”

Defining the Year Ahead

Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman of GJEPC, described IIJS Signature as a pivotal event for the industry, serving as both a market indicator and a celebration of craftsmanship.

“At the start of the calendar year, IIJS Signature holds great importance for the industry. It sets the road tone, reflects market sentiment, and provides valuable insights into what we can expect in the months ahead,” Bhansali stated.

“This year, IIJS Signature 2025 is bigger than ever,” he shared with pride, while extending heartfelt gratitude to the Honourable Minister of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Mangal Prabhat Lodha, for his presence. “His unwavering support has been instrumental in making this event a success. His guidance has been like that of a trusted family member. He has stood by the industry’s side through both challenges and victories.”

For his part, Lodha, who was Chief Guest at the event, said, “Maharashtra offers the best business and professional atmosphere. Under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis Ji, our government is committed to supporting industries like yours. Together, we can realize the dreams of Viksit and Atmanirbhar Bharat. GJEPC and the Maharashtra Govt. must collaborate on skill development and certifications to strengthen the future workforce and elevate the diamond and jewellery sector to greater heights.”

Celebrating Craftsmanship and Business Excellence

Saurabh Gadgil, Managing Director of P.N. Gadgil Jewellers and Guest of Honour, hailed IIJS Signature as the “epitome of jewellery buying, networking, and professionalism.”

“As buyers like us, we feel it’s a great platform—very well organised, perfect timings, and a remarkable gathering of Indian manufacturers, designers, and global talent at a single venue,” Gadgil said.

Gadgil projected optimism for the industry’s trajectory: “Today, India’s gem and jewellery industry stands strong. We’ve transitioned from an unorganised sector to a highly respected, organised industry. This shift is evident in how IIJS has grown. I truly believe that by next year, IIJS has the potential to become the largest jewellery show in the world.”

As IIJS Signature 2025 continues through its final days, it remains more than just an exhibition—it’s a reflection of India’s aspirations as a global jewellery powerhouse. From cutting-edge manufacturing technologies and skill development initiatives to elite networking opportunities, it has reaffirmed its role as a key catalyst for growth and collaboration in the global jewellery market.

With its grand scale, international participation, and unwavering focus on both tradition and innovation, IIJS Signature 2025 sets a powerful precedent for the year ahead in the world of jewellery.