Renowned for her exceptional creations and masterful craftsmanship, Farah Khan stands as a seasoned professional with more than three decades of experience. Over the years, she has consistently maintained her appeal showcasing high-end jewellery collections infused with a melody of colours. They are bold yet feminine with an element of liveliness in them. At IIJS Signature, the Farah Khan Atelier reveals a breathtaking array of collections crafted with unparalleled artistry. In an exclusive interview, Farah Khan provides insight into her latest masterpieces and creative process, offering invaluable advice to budding designers who want to make a mark in the industry.
How has your journey been in the world of jewellery design?
My journey in the jewellery industry has been a remarkable odyssey, defined by passion, creativity, and commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation.
With a wealth of experience spanning over three decades, I am a designer, and a storyteller. My designs are characterised by their flamboyance, opulence, and a flair for the unexpected. The forms I create are intricate, striking, and bold, yet always exuding femininity.
I always believe that jewellery should be worn more often because they remind you of happy moments in your life.
What inspired you to participate in IIJS Signature?
We are delighted to participate in IIJS Signature, recognising it as an optimal platform to cultivate partnerships with design-centric brands. This aligns seamlessly with our couture jewellery offerings, as this is a design-centric show.
IIJS Signature serves as a comprehensive destination where retailers, manufacturers, and other industry stakeholders come together to drive innovation and push the boundaries of the jewellery industry. It provides an ideal environment to expand one’s business and establish connections with like-minded individuals who share a common passion and vision. The show offers ample opportunities for networking, collaboration, and business growth.
Are there specific themes or collections you are showcasing at IIJS Signature this year?
At IIJS Signature 2024, we are participating in the Select Club, with our global showcase, featuring the Aayat and Amaira collections that emphasise the celebration of self and recognise our innate connection to the divine and the universe. We are also showcasing our curated collections featuring special-cut gemstones, vibrant and playful designs, and an innovative men’s line crafted with state-of-the-art manufacturing technology. We will be unveiling a symphony of elegance, creativity, and technological prowess at Farah Khan Atelier.
How do you approach the design process when creating a new jewellery collection?
A piece of jewellery is more than a mere accessory; it holds memories of the ones we love. Life itself endlessly inspires me. When I encounter something inspiring, I transform that visual imagery into fluid thoughts and translate it into a three-dimensional object of beauty—one that is alive and captivating. Working with gemstones feels like crafting pieces of enduring beauty and desire, carrying memories across generations. I like to embellish my work with the creativity of my thoughts.
Are there any materials, techniques, or cultural influences that you have been incorporating lately into your designs?
We thrive on continuous innovation and actively look for new technologies. We try to be at the forefront of pushing the boundaries in jewellery and manufacturing techniques, and explore diverse materials and experiment with innovative mechanisms, all aimed at enhancing the overall experience of every piece of jewellery we create.
Currently, we are working with ceramic and special-cut gemstones. In our pursuit of excellence, we consider every minute detail, revisiting and refining our designs. This approach ensures that our products truly stand out from the competition. By combining our commitment to new technologies, with our attention to detail and user-friendly designs, we strive to create jewellery that surpasses expectations and leaves a lasting impression on our customers.
What, in your opinion, are some emerging trends in jewellery design that we can look forward to?
I have observed a growing trend in wearable jewellery that incorporates mixed media, reflecting people’s inclination towards experimentation. Jewellery is no longer seen solely as an investment; it has become a fashion accessory that individuals wear more often. This shift in mindset has led to the popularity of smaller, stackable pieces as well as designs that stand out.
Tell us about your design philosophy. How would you describe your signature style in jewellery design?
My brand, Farah Khan Atelier is a line of premium designer jewellery that talks about the celebration of self, recognising our inherent connection to the divine and the universe as a whole.
It caters to the “young at heart” and is for all those who want to celebrate life. Our signature monogram, “Aayat,” means “Miracle” in Urdu, and it serves as a constant reminder for wearers to embrace the magnificence of life, as life itself is a miraculous gift. The brand features well-crafted wearable jewellery, expertly combining 18-karat gold, diamonds, and ceramic. It is thoughtfully designed for the modern woman—who is an embodiment of strength and fragility, unapologetically living life on her own terms and fearlessly radiating her unique brilliance.
What challenges do you face as a jewellery designer, and how do you overcome them? On the flip side, what are the most rewarding aspects of your profession?
As a jewellery designer, my most significant challenge lies in selecting the right manufacturers, as the translation of my creative visions may vary.
Manufacturers possess diverse strengths, and in collaborating with them, I seek individuals who exhibit a concentrated expertise and a willingness to explore boundaries during the research and development phase. Through persistent trial and error, we overcome those hurdles.
The most fulfilling aspect of my profession is the transformation of an inanimate thought into objects of beauty—pieces that outlive its wearer in time. This process is immensely rewarding, as it involves bringing to life something initially intangible and turning it into a timeless work of art.
Can you share any memorable experiences or stories from your interactions with clients?
I love what I do, and I am really passionate and involved with every flourish of my brand. Through my interactions with customers, I have always been ethical and transparent in my dealings.
When I had just started out my career, I used to showcase my collections at various well-known jewellers under my brand name. On one occasion, a familiar actress, who valued my opinion, visited one of these jewellers with the intention of purchasing an item from my collection. She expressed interest in a stunning pair of Colombian emerald earrings, which carried a substantial price tag. However, her plan was to gift these earrings to the mother of the actor she was dating.
Despite the potential profit from the sale, I advised her against buying the expensive Colombian emerald earrings, emphasising that unless she was married to the actor, such a lavish gift was not advisable. Although she initially hesitated, she ultimately heeded my advice and decided against the purchase. The jeweller I was associated with at the time was dismayed and displeased with my candid opinion.
In the aftermath, the actress ended her relationship with the actor. I believe she appreciated the guidance I provided, as she later became a client of mine. This experience reinforced my belief in the importance of honesty in customer interactions. While it may result in a missed sale, the long-term trust and loyalty earned are priceless and extend beyond monetary gains.
What advice would you give to aspiring jewellery designers who are just starting their careers?
For aspiring jewellery designers embarking on their careers, my advice is to first focus on the reasons as to why you want to become a designer. You should clearly articulate your personal narrative and what distinguishes you from others in the field.
Your ability to effectively convey this story is very important. Establishing a unique identity—whether through design language, brand narrative, or an unparalleled brand experience—is essential for a fulfilling design career.
While honing your skills, remember that attracting clients and achieving success are natural by-products. However, you need to truly love what you do. Despite the perceived glamour of jewellery designing, it’s a demanding profession that hinges on earning the trust of clients, ultimately shaping your long-term relationships.
Be honest with clients about whether a piece genuinely suits them or not. Prioritise building strong client relationships over making immediate sales; trust earned will inevitably lead to success.
Can you provide a sneak peek into any upcoming projects or collaborations you’re working on?
Fuelled by boundless love for design and innovation, Farah Khan Atelier is on a mission to create jewellery that not only mesmerises the senses but also adds profound meaning to every cherished moment.
I recently joined forces with the fashion designer, Nandita Mahtani to unveil a whimsical jewellery collection. Explore our creations at the Select Club during IIJS Signature.