With consumer preferences evolving and gold prices remaining elevated, jewellery manufacturers are reimagining design, materials and value. Mangesh Chauhan, Managing Director, Sky Gold & Diamonds Ltd., shares how innovation, lightweight collections and global market expansion are shaping the company’s strategy as it prepares to showcase its latest offerings at IIJS Bharat Premiere 2026.
What are your expectations from IIJS Bharat Premiere 2026? Which markets and buyer segments are you looking to tap through the show?
IIJS Bharat Premiere has always been one of the most important platforms for the jewellery industry, and this year is no different. We see it as an opportunity not just to showcase new collections but to have meaningful conversations with retailers and partners about where the market is headed.
Our focus is on strengthening relationships across India while expanding our presence in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, the UK, and North America. We’re also seeing growing interest from organised retail chains as well as progressive independent jewellers, who are looking for differentiated designs backed by dependable manufacturing. We believe the exhibition is the ideal place to build those long-term partnerships.
What are the key highlights of the collections this year? Are there any standout themes that buyers should look out for?
This year, we’ve focused on creating collections that reflect changing consumer lifestyles – jewellery that is lighter, more versatile, and designed for everyday wear without compromising on aesthetics.
Alongside contemporary silhouettes, we’ve introduced fresh textures, innovative surface finishes, and unique material combinations that add character to gold jewellery. While minimalism continues to influence design, we’re also seeing demand for pieces that make a statement. Our collections aim to offer retailers a balanced mix of commercial bestsellers and distinctive designs that help them stand out in a competitive market.
One of your new collections combines gold with resin and the other with wood both unconventional pairings in fine jewellery. What inspired this direction?
Innovation doesn’t always mean moving away from gold; it means discovering new ways to present it.
The idea behind combining gold with resin and wood came from our desire to make jewellery more expressive while also addressing the need for lighter products. These materials create interesting textures, colours, and visual contrast while maintaining the premium appeal of gold.
So far, the response has been encouraging. Retailers appreciate that these collections offer something fresh and conversation-worthy, especially for younger consumers who are looking for jewellery that reflects their personality rather than following traditional norms.
With gold prices remaining elevated, how has Sky Gold adapted its product strategy?
Higher gold prices have definitely changed the way the industry thinks about product development. We’ve approached this as an opportunity to innovate rather than simply reduce weight.
Our design and manufacturing teams work closely to optimise every gram without compromising the look or durability of the jewellery. Advanced manufacturing techniques, precision engineering, and thoughtful product design allow us to create pieces that appear substantial while using gold more efficiently.
We’re also experimenting with complementary materials in select collections where they genuinely enhance the design. The objective has never been to replace gold—it’s to maximise its value for both retailers and consumers.
Our latest collections are built around wearable luxury. They’re lightweight for daily wear, visually impactful to attract customers, and designed to suit different budgets without compromising quality. Ultimately, value isn’t only about price it’s about giving customers jewellery they’ll genuinely enjoy wearing.
Consumer preferences are evolving rapidly. Which trends are influencing your product development for the coming season?
Today’s consumers, especially younger buyers, are looking for jewellery that fits seamlessly into their lifestyle, and suitable for multiple occasions.
We’re also seeing increasing demand for contemporary styling, personalisation, stackable jewellery, gender-fluid designs, and products that can transition effortlessly from work to celebrations.
Also, social media continues to influence purchasing behaviour, so visual appeal has become just as important as craftsmanship. Our product development process combines market insights, retailer feedback, and trend forecasting to ensure we’re creating collections that remain commercially relevant.
Which are your major export markets and how have FTAs helped you grow your business?
Our key export markets include the Middle East, the USA, the UK, Southeast Asia, and selected European markets. Each region has its own design preferences, which makes flexibility in manufacturing extremely important.
Free Trade Agreements have certainly made international business more competitive by improving market access and reducing trade barriers in several regions. They help Indian manufacturers strengthen their global presence while making exports more efficient.
For us, however, sustainable growth is built not only on policy advantages but also on consistent quality, timely deliveries, and the ability to develop collections that resonate with local market preferences.
Your outlook on gold for 2026.
I believe gold will continue to remain one of the strongest long-term asset classes, despite short-term price fluctuations. Consumers have always viewed gold as both an emotional purchase and a financial safeguard, and that confidence remains intact.
For the jewellery industry, 2026 will be less about chasing volumes and more about creating smarter, design-led products that deliver greater value. Manufacturers who can balance innovation, craftsmanship, efficiency, and consumer relevance will be best positioned for growth.
India has already established itself as a global jewellery manufacturing powerhouse, and I believe the coming years present a tremendous opportunity for Indian manufacturers to strengthen their position on the world stage.