Explore the realm of exceptional craftsmanship with our 3-part series on the Artisan Awards 2025 finalists. The captivating designs, presented as sketches, breathe new life into India’s rich heritage of crafts, and delve into the stories of the creative visionaries behind them. From inspirations to challenges, each finalist shares their journey and vision, celebrating the art of storytelling through jewellery.
Namah
MALVIKA VADSAK, WALKING TREE VENTURES
These 22-karat yellow gold earrings feature a striking rough diamond chip at their centre, encircled by a halo of pave-set round brilliant-cut diamonds. The motif is further adorned with intricately carved coral beads, each capped with a round diamond. The rudraksha seeds are accentuated with black onyx, while select elements are gracefully caged in twisted wire. Sacred motifs of coral and rudraksha offer protection and spiritual enhancement. Traditionally, artisans would bless such pieces by chanting mantras and placing them in temple precincts before being sold. By blending handcrafted tradition with contemporary design, these earrings preserve timeless crafts while telling a unique, modern story.
Malvika, what was the most surprising source of inspiration during your design journey for the Artisan Awards?
“When I first encountered the theme “Indian Heritage,” I divulged into the rich world of Northern Indian jewellery, where I found a deep connection with the organic beauty of Rudraksh. Its raw textures, earthy tones, and natural colours fascinated me. While Rudraksh is typically worn as strings around the hands or neck, I was inspired to break free from its traditional use, reimagining it with a modern twist. To complement the earthy hues of the Rudraksh, I felt that the addition of vibrant orange corals would bring a striking contrast, completing the design beautifully. The entire journey, from research and sketches to the final creation, has been both overwhelming and thrilling. It’s an experience I wouldn’t have approached any other way.”
Majolica Blue
PRIYANSHI GANGANI, MANI JEWEL
The ear cuffs in antique gold finish take design cues from the famous blue pottery of Rajasthan. The central diamond flower enhanced with antique gold border, flares outwards with curvaceous petals evoking the feel of blue pottery with blue and white meenakari. Each petal is interspersed with a round blue bead signifying a bud.
Priyanshi, if you could describe your journey to the finals in one word, what would it be?
I had wanted to participate in the Artisan Awards for a long time but hesitated due to my limited experience and nervousness. However, with my manager’s encouragement, I decided to enter just a week before the submission deadline. I incorporated the blue pottery art form into my jewellery using meenakari. When I received an email confirming that I was selected as one of the finalists, it became one of the most memorable moments of my life. I couldn’t stop reading the email over and over again. I truly enjoyed the production process, and turning my sketches into finished pieces was incredibly fulfilling. I’m filled with gratitude!
Navya Rivaaz
AISHWARYA YADAV, WALKING TREE VENTURES
The unconventional mangalsutra, inspired by celestial elements, is crafted in 18-karat yellow gold. At its centre is a hoop of onyx and white enamelled beads, suspending an orb adorned with navratnas (nine gemstones). Surrounding the orb are three symbolic charms: the sun and moon, representing the balance between her inner fire serene calm and a unity charm showcasing the blue enamelled sky and the brown earth tones. The sky reflects her dreams and soaring spirit, while the earth denotes her deep connection to her heritage, a reservoir of strength drawn from the past.
Aishwarya, when you submitted your design, did you secretly think, This is the one, or were you surprised to be a finalist?
From inspiration to final product, the idea of the mangalsutra came to my mind from seeing the women around me who are multidimensional, who are making their dreams come true while also managing their personal lives. This made me feel connected with the entire process, and there were the moments that made me feel, ‘yes’, this is the design that is going to be a different … one that nobody would have thought of.
Forged in Nature’s Alchemy
SHIVANI ILAMURUGAN, GRT JEWELLERS PVT. LTD.
Creations often emerge from the destructive forces of nature, reflecting the cyclical relationship between destruction and creation. The dynamic transformation within the earth’s core gives rise to two contrasting materials: diamonds and porous volcanic lava. This bold 18-karat white gold ring features uncut diamonds set using the traditional pacchigam gem-setting technique. The interplay of rough and smooth textures adds depth to the design, culminating in a unique, convertible statement piece.
Woven Artistry
SHIVANI ILAMURUGAN, GRT JEWELLERS PVT. LTD.
The striking earrings wrought in 18-karat gold are designed with marble, petrified wood, diamonds, malachite, mother-of-pearl, japser, carnelian, agate, and lapis lazuli.
An ancient inlay technique, Parchinkari (pietra dura) has been used to set the gems, specifically cut and polished, to form an interesting floral pattern that mimic woven embroidered patterns. This art had reached its peak during the Mughal era.
Shivani, How does it feel to see your work celebrated on such a prestigious platform? Has the journey been everything you imagined?
I am immensely happy and grateful. The journey has been a mix of challenges and emotions, making this moment even more special. Seeing both of my work celebrated on such a prestigious platform fills me with pride and a deep sense of happiness.
Nectari
SWETHA SHANMUHAVEL, VUMMIDI BANGARU JEWELLERS
These handcrafted earrings, made from 18-karat gold, echo the intricate structure of a beehive through the art of granulation. Merging art and nature, this stunning pair is adorned with diamonds and yellow sapphires, accented by black enamel and black rhodium polish. Inspired by Art Deco, the geometric hollow forms on the silhouette emphasise the strength and elegance found in natural designs. The added dimensions and polished granules, combined with black rhodium, offer a fresh, contemporary reinterpretation of this traditional craft.
Anika
SWETHA SHANMUHAVEL, VUMMIDI BANGARU JEWELLERS
Rooted in ancient designs yet futuristic in appeal, these chic, multi-purpose earrings draw inspiration from the Koppu or Bugadi ornaments traditionally worn by women on the outer rim of the ear. Crafted in yellow gold, these hollow earrings feature brilliant-cut round diamonds, black enamel, and a black rhodium finish, employing the age-old granulation technique. The design gains a three-dimensional volume, with diamonds accenting the top and polished granules enhancing the curved surface below. The mirrored lower half tapers elegantly, while the central circular component is removable and can transform into standalone hoops, adding versatility to the piece.
Swetha, two of your entries have reached the final round! Do you have a secret “lucky charm” or ritual while submitting your designs, or did you leave it all to destiny?
I am beyond thrilled that both of my design entries have been selected. But no secret rituals or lucky charms here I must say I don’t believe in leaving success to fate instead, I leave it to the grind. While I let my designs do the talking, there’s no denying that passion, persistence and a willingness to iterate until I’ve nailed it are the real game changers – pushing to make every design better than the last. And if that’s good enough to make it to the final round then Ill call that a win but Ill never say no to a little extra luck on the side.
Celestial Symphony
BHAVESH SONI, MANOJ ORNAMENTS PVT. LTD.
Resembling the traditional kasu mala, this modern-day hasli features nine orbs representing the navgraha—the nine planets—depicted through gemstone colours: ruby, emerald, blue sapphire, pearl, yellow sapphire, diamond, coral, hessonite, garnet, and cat’s eye. Each orb features intricate Thewa art, combining 22-karat gold work on glass, topped with a gemstone of matching colour. The reverse side of the necklace is adorned with laser-engraved vahanas (vehicles) of the nine planets, adding a symbolic dimension. The orbs gracefully suspend from a sleek oval flat omega chain, secured with an oval box clasp.
Bhavesh, working with Thewa art requires precision and a deep understanding of its intricate process. What aspects of this craft did you find most rewarding or challenging while creating your piece for the Artisan Awards?
“Thewa art is a cultural treasure that brings tradition to life through intricate designs inspired by mythology, nature, and history. Practicing this rare craft preserves a rich legacy while providing immense artistic satisfaction.
Mastering Thewa requires exceptional skill and patience, as crafting delicate goldwork on fragile glass is challenging. Balancing traditional methods with modern aesthetics adds to the complexity but ensures the craft remains relevant and unique.”