Behind The Sheen

Four women share personal anecdotes, witty asides, and intimate reminiscences about their love affair with jewellery

- Barry Rodgers

SUJATA ASSOMULL,

Fashion Journalist & Author

I grew up with the understanding that jewellery is something very sacred, and designs have floated in my mind my entire life. This probably was the case because my grandfather was a jeweler. Whenever I’d visit home in December from England, I’d sit and watch him sort through the diamonds on this tiny velvet tray at his store on Hughes Road (Mumbai).

My grandmother had these beautiful cocktail rings that I’d always admire. They were crafted in different shapes and were just so fascinating. I love the concept of cocktail rings so much that you’ll always see me wearing them.

The green jhumkas are made of cabochons and diamonds. My mother doesn’t believe in uncut jewellery, she feels it has no value. But I, on the other hand, love uncut jewellery, and I desperately wanted a pair of uncut earrings. So, I got these made almost two decades ago. What I like about them is that they’re versatile – you can pair them with a cocktail dress or ethnic wear. I’ve ‘stolen’ a lot of my mother’s jewellery. I’d wear this ring on my thumb because it didn’t fit me. On my 30th birthday, she gave me the ring and asked me to set it the way I wanted to.

ARUNDHATI DE,

Jewellery Advisor