The Vault: Rida Chhotani

Talented jewellery designer and entrepreneur, Rida Chhotani speaks to us about her exquisite jewellery

Talented jewellery designer and entrepreneur, Rida Chhotani speaks to us about the exquisite jewellery inside her vault. From her favourite pieces, to the inspiration behind her designs, she shares it all

How and when did you become interested in jewellery?

Since I was a little girl, I would always accompany my mother when she went jewellery shopping and would help her pick designs and alter them as well. Even my father would lay out clothes and make me help him pick out his outfit before he stepped out for an event. Hence, the love for jewellery and fashion. When I was getting married, I ended up designing my own head piece instead of going to a jeweller for my mehndi. My confidence grew when people started complimenting me on that piece or any jewellery that I would wear.  After marrying into a family that has been in jewellery for four generations my interest just grew further; till I finally started my own line.



What are your favourite pieces of jewellery?

My personal favourite piece of jewellery has got to be pearls. I absolutely love them. Another piece of jewellery that I really love is the Amethyst stone. It is known to convert negative energies into positive energies. I try to incorporate the Amethyst stone in a lot of my pieces and I must say those sell a lot. They look so beautiful!

Share a story with us about how you acquired one of your favourite pieces.

From the beginning I loved class and elegance and just like Audrey Hepburn has said “Elegance is the only beauty that never fades”; and I strongly feel that pearls are the epitome of elegance and grace. I recently designed a pearl choker with a blue Chalcedony and an Amethyst stone which is now one of my favourite pieces.

Is there any piece you are emotionally attached to?

Other than the pieces passed on by my mother, I have recently designed an emerald gemstone ring that I am emotionally attached to. It is a piece designed to contribute the funds for the Pakistan Water Dam Fund. Being away from Pakistan, I felt this was the best way to give back to the community.

Where do you draw your inspiration from?

I draw my inspiration from travelling to countries that are rich in culture and history. I incorporate that by providing a wide range of jewellery from Turkish to Indian to contemporary.

What is Rida Chhotani’s signature piece or style?

Rida Chhotani does not have a specific signature piece however; our tassel earrings and studs are most loved and sold. Rida Chhotani’s style would be a simple pair of gem stone studs that could be paired with a heavy necklace or just worn simply.



What is one thing a client should keep in mind when purchasing jewellery?

Other than purchasing a piece they adore or that would perfectly compliment their clothing, clients must always ask the designer for care and instructions. I always make it a point to give this information so their jewellery can last longer.

One jewellery trend you wish dies?

Haha! That would be a very strong statement. I personally am not a fan of eyebrow piercings or chin piercings. Jewellery for that purpose is not something you would ever find in my collection.

What is one jewellery trend you wish desi brides would incorporate more?

Desi brides are usually seen wearing modern diamond jewellery, or traditional gold jewellery with kundan or polki diamonds. We have so many events for one wedding and I really wish the brides would try wearing jewellery with gemstones or natural druzy stones.

Is there anything on your radar that you want to introduce in the future?

I really want to introduce head pieces in the near future for which I have already started my research.