This year’s festive season witnessed a significant shift in favour of jewellery purchases by city dwellers who preferred to revisit their traditional favourites

There’s sparklers in the air!

This year’s festive season witnessed a significant shift in favour of jewellery purchases by city dwellers who preferred to revisit their traditional favourites

These days, its hard to tell what sparkles brighter, the jewellery displayed in showcases or the broad smiles on jewellers’ faces. Over the past 30 days, between the three back-to-back festivals of Navratri-Dussehra-Dhanteras, Mumbaikars made one thing clear — investing in gold is not necessarily about putting money into bars, coins or ETFs. Intricately designed jewellery that leaves a lasting impression when worn has been the preferred flavour of the season. There has been a visible shift in favour of adorning oneself with substantial jewellery pieces that make people sit up and take notice. While elegance is not being compromised on, per se, the large pieces that were once considered ‘too heavy’ are now back in vogue. Size does matter as does the sheen. Traditional ‘yellow’ gold is what people have been increasingly opting for in their desire for jewellery that looks as expensive and luxurious as the price it commands. Floral designs have been a big hit this season and diamond sets have redefined the concept of saying it with flowers. The ethnic jadau, kundan and polki styles made a huge comeback as well. Chandelier earrings with multiple layers that accentuate the feminity of the wearer have been snapped up along with large hoop designs. Paired with bright necklaces in layers and large rings, they somehow managed to blend the retro look with modern elements. Bracelets in a variety of geometric shapes help to achieve the desired look. Jewellery with rough cut gems that catch the light and reflect it in a unique way has been much sought after. Bespoke pieces of jewellery, customised with innovative designs for each buyer is another trend that seems to be spreading like wildfire. Bold and ornate jewellery that showcases the creativity of the designer is being coveted and crafted. Buyers have also been eschewing clustered designs in diamond jewellery in favour of the intricate ones. When it comes to other precious stones, brilliantly faceted emeralds, rubies and sapphires in rich colours have been also making a mark. Those who managed to strike a balance, offering jewellery that is wearable, functional as well as exclusive, have really pulled in the crowds. The quest has been for minimalistic elegance combined with old world charm. Jewellery that is truly versatile in nature, which can be worn to the office as well as for an evening out afterwards is what people are also looking for. Items with a distinctive style that set off western or Indian apparel equally well have been the flavour of the month so far.