IIJW Opens to Great Fanfare

In a take-off on traditional fashion weeks around the world, where leading designers introduce their latest collections, the first International Jewellery Week (IIJW) opened Sunday in Mumbai, and models took to the runway to present jewelry collections from local designers. The response after the first days was 'Wow.'

Seven designers showed off their collections on each of the first two days, with short breaks between each session. The first day, taking place on Independence Day, drew a large crowed from opening ceremony to closing. Among the models were Bollywood star Katrina Kaif.

The jewelry items were largely inspired by traditional Indian designs, including Nizam's jewelry and the royal Mughal era designs, with frequent use of rose-cut diamonds, jade and rubies set in yellow or white gold.

Classic designs, bridal sets and other large layouts, the sought after markets were clearly the local one as well as the Gulf countries, North Africa and Azerbaijan.

The next few days are expected to expand the scope, with designers eyeing the U.S. and West European markets unveiling their collections on the catwalk.

According to Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council's (GJEPC) Sanjay Kothari, IIJW is intended to bring India's high-end jewelry to a wide audience. The use of celebrities – Miss India joined Bollywood starlets – was to grab local media attention, which it did.

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