The All India Gem and Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC) held a grand event in Mumbai on February 11, 2019 to felicitate the winners of the 8th edition of   National Jewellery Awards (NJA) 2018.

A total of 36 awards were presented  across five  different categories  in the presence of GJC Chairman &  Convener-NJA 2018,  Anantha Padmanaban;  Vice Chairman, GJC  Shaankar Sen;   and Co-Convener-NJA 2018, GJC Ashish Pethe. An added sparkle was imparted to the  function thanks to the presence of  celebrity Chief Guest   Malaika Arora;  and actresses   Rashmi and  Madhura Naik amongst others.

“This year, NJA comprised Jewellery Awards (16 categories), Excellence Awards (3 categories), Store Awards (5 categories), Designer & Artisan Awards (3 categories) and Student of the Year Award,” the GJC said in a statement after the awards presentation ceremony. “A new category for CSR Initiative and Women Entrepreneurship was added in this year’s NJA awards.”

 Anantha Padmanaban, Chairman, GJC & Convener-NJA 2018  commented: “GJC’s NJA awards is the largest platform that recognises and applauds all segments of India’s gem & jewellery sector. Our exquisite designs are hidden gems and NJA awards elevate this national treasure to take centre-stage. Despite a challenging and volatile environment, we are overwhelmed to receive over 850 entries and this shows the indomitable spirit of Indian jewellers. The new categories such as CSR Initiative and Women Entrepreneurship showcase that jewellers are socially conscious and responsible citizens.”    

Shaankar Sen, Vice Chairman, GJC  said, “GJC’s NJA initiative is an ode to the inimitable talent and intricate craftsmanship of ‘Make in India’ artisans, manufacturers and designers. NJA recognises these unsung heroes, who have nurtured people’s deep love and passion for jewellery over thousands of years. NJA recognises the inspiration and innovative approach of manufacturers and marketers who create new fashion and design trends every year. NJA is a celebration of the best-in-class Indian jewellery.”  

 Ashish , Co-Convener-NJA 2018, said, “This year, GJC has added several new awards in different categories to ensure that the 8th edition is the biggest, grandest and most popular ever. The NJA awards honour the rich Indian artistic, creative designs in the gems and jewellery industry and the business and  marketing acumen of the jewellery manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers of India. GJC’s initiatives such as NJA encourage the industry to unite and continue to strive for excellence and deliver quality.”

The Jury for NJA included:   Queenie Singh (Jewellery Designer);  Archana Kochhar (Fashion Designer);    Poonam Soni (Jewellery Designer;   Tarang Arora (Amrapali);    Saurabh Gadgil (PN Gadgil);   Nirupa Bhatt (GIA) and   Manali Jagtap   (Fashion & Jewellery Designer brand) amongst others.

The Title Partner for NJA 2018 was the National Stock Exchange (NSE); and the show was powered by  BVC Logistics. Other partners included:   Trophy & Fashion Partner - Swarovski Gemstones;  Laboratory Partner - International Gemological Institute (IGI - India);  Platinum Partner - Platinum Guild International (India) (PGI). Supporting Partners were  World Gold Council and Forevermark;  Co-Supporting Partners were Laxmi Diamonds and Alma Jewels; along with Jewellery Partner – UMA Ornaments;  and Trade Media Partner -Art of Jewellery.

Ernst and Young were the process advisors to the awards this year, adding scrutiny and secrecy to the awards, thus ensuring unbiased and transparent process. 

Pic Cap:   Bollywood celebrity actress Malaika Arora,   Anantha Padmanabhan, Chairman, GJC felicitating  Tehmasp Printer, Managing Director, International Gemological Institute India (IGI) at the 8th Edition of National Jewellery Awards (NJA) 2018.