How and when did you get interested in jewellery?
Growing up, my sisters and I were expected to adorn these gold baali earrings. While my sisters were very conscientious about it, I would find some excuse or the other to take them off and leave them lying around the house in the hope that I would lose them. I was definitely a tomboy in my growing up years, and jewellery was the least of my interests. However, receiving my first solitaire studs as a graduation present from my mother was when I truly noticed and perhaps realised what fine jewellery was about. Picking out my wedding pieces was also a special time to revisit our family traditions and ties with jewellery and the unique story that each piece carries with it over time.
What are your favourite pieces of jewellery?
I’m a pushover for traditional pieces. My absolute favourites are the family heirloom pieces that have been passed down to me from my mother. My all-time favourite that does not get much airtime is the rani haar. It’s a unique combination of ruby, diamonds and pearls set in gold. Our family jeweller, Benod Behari Dutt in Kolkata, made a tika for my wedding with a lot of affection, that I absolutely fell in love with. Another piece that I can never get over is my ruby and diamond ring set in gold. My kamar bandh (waist band/sari belt) is another favourite. Not very widely worn, yet the kamar bandh is a classic piece that every jewellery enthusiast must own. It was a mainstay in the Mughal era and a distinct part of Indian classical dance forms. As a trend, it has made a huge comeback even in contemporary dressing.
Is there any piece you are emotionally attached to and why?
This emerald ring given to me by my parents holds a special place in my heart. The Tiffany ‘Eternity Band’ necklace gifted to me by my husband is also very dear to me.
Share a story with us about how you acquired one of your favourite pieces?
According to my janam kundli (birth chart as per Vedic astrology) and family astrologer, my birthstone is emerald. My father, being an avid collector of gems and stones, acquired an emerald for me soon after my birth, which of course was given to me much later in the form of a ring. Ever since, I’ve been wearing it on my little finger, it’s definitely very special to me.
Is there anything on your radar that you want to get in the future?
I have my eye on the Cartier ‘Love’ bangles.
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