For a fairly new entrant in the world of jewellery, Mumbai-based designer Neha Roongtas designs are creating ripples. Her one-off compositions are bold and global in design, deftly combining the glamour quotient with high quality finish and unique gem settings.
Raised in Hong Kong in a family well-established in jewellery making, Neha was attuned to the business since her youth, but she chose to further perfect her skills at the Gemological Institute of America. Bringing in the blend of Asian cultures, teamed with typical manufacturing techniques practised in Hong Kong, Neha infuses engaging colour combinations in her couture and bespoke 18-karat gold collections. She strongly believes that jewellery has the power to influence moods and elicit reactions
What made you opt for jewellery designing?
I was raised in Hong Kong and jewellery designing was a natural transition for me, since I belong to a renowned jewellery house in Hong Kong. My father moved to Hong Kong 40 years ago and began trading in diamonds and other precious stones. Soon after, he set up state-of-the-art jewellery manufacturing factories in Hong Kong and China.
I studied International Business in California, but post my graduation, I secured Graduate Gemologist and Jewellery Designing diplomas from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).
Since my childhood days, I have always been intrigued by the natural beauty of precious gems. In my early 20s, for the sheer joy of it, I had once designed rough jewellery sketches for my family. My parents noticed my unique ability and encouraged me to pursue this professionally.
Your jewellery is immersed in diamonds and gemstones and has a very contemporary and feminine feel to it...
I believe that everyone has their own aesthetic sense which is inspired by their life experiences, culture and upbringing. My aesthetic sense is inspired by a combination of our Indian heritage, Chinese and Western cultural influences.
Where do you seek inspiration from to design a piece of jewellery?
Denne historien er fra September - October 2018-utgaven av Adorn.
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Denne historien er fra September - October 2018-utgaven av Adorn.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
designing for a better world
uk-based designer jasmine alexander’s works mirror life’s bitter-sweet truths in a highly individualistic way. slivers of her personality shine through in the form of a poet, an unpretentious thinker, an avant-garde jewellery designer, and a fearless crusader of the environment. the sentient designer recently partnered with the renowned ‘sea shepherd’ conservation society, a marine preservation organisation which uses direct action, to create the sea shepherd x jasmine alexander collection of limited edition pieces in 18-karat gold, stainless steel and argentium silver (nontarnish silver). jasmine alexander is an officially appointed ambassador of british jewellery, and an official advisory board member of sea shepherd uk.
Pallavi Foley's Take On Jewellery Trends
STYLE EXPERT PALLAVI FOLEY, celebrity jewellery designer, in an exclusive interview highlights the current jewellery trends, the rising popularity of body ornaments and the fast-changing tastes of consumers. Pallavi, who is acknowledged as India’s Elsa Peretti (of Tiffany fame) by the World Gold Council, is known for her biomorphic and sculptural designs in gold and silver. The awardwinning designer takes cues from nature, life, emotions, and other abstract concepts and interlaces a story around the pieces. Her collections are luxurious and have an unexpected element of incredulity. The avant-garde designer offers jewellery styling tips for today’s confident woman.
The Rising Star
Disha Patani, the new actor on the block, has wowed all with her million-dollar smile and has won over critics with her acting chops. Wrapped in diamonds set in contemporary gold silhouettes, Disha looks stunning in metallic ensembles teamed with silk, leather and lace. In a fashion flashback to the '80s, Disha plays the part of a seductive, glamorous gal from the golden era to perfection!
Desi With a Difference
Human rights-lawyer- turned jewellery designer PRIYANKA MURTHY’S designs spell modern minimalism to the tee. Just one look at her jewellery is enough for you to know that despite its simplistic clean lines, there is an unmistakable wow factor in every piece. The designs are extremely fresh and unique and tailored for the independent working woman.
Toranj Kayvon - Born Star
Little did we know that when we first met fashion photographer Toranj way back in 2013 for an editorial shoot that she would one day be gracing the cover herself. We immediately fell in love with her vivacious spirit, positive energy and prodigious talent. She is among the best when it comes to capturing the facets, sparkle and glitter of diamonds—evident from the fact that she has shot five covers for ADORN in these years. Toranj has also blossomed into a fine actor; she was seen in Manmarziyaan (2018) and will now appear in the upcoming film Kesari (2019), in which she has pivotal role. We chose this rising star in our midst for the March-April cover, and she once again worked her magic with diamonds – only this time, in front of the lens.
Keeping It Simple
Syna’s success can not only be attributed to their over a decade-long existence in the industry, but also their strong and clear aesthetic that hinges on “keeping it simple”. The creative force of Syna – Namrata and Dharmesh Kothari – are always stripping the design to its core to imbue their jewellery with a refreshing take. “We want to show the heart out instantly, and in its purest form, without losing its inherent character,” says Dharmesh. Each of Syna’s pieces has a little story, a little fragment of historical design and culture – all modernised to work timelessly.Dharmesh Kothari talks about their love for coloured stones, travels and design philosophy.
Siren Song
Italian maestro of erotica MILO MANARA has helmed ten illustrations, depicting an underwater rendezvous between a beautiful, alluring mermaid and a woman, for watchmaker Ulysse Nardin. The series was unveiled for the first time at the SIHH in Geneva in January 2019.
‘Rarity & Authenticity Distinguish Orevermark Diamonds'
SACHIN JAIN, president, Forevermark India, speaks to ADORN about the growing popularity of jewellery set with hand-picked, rare diamonds that are as unique as each wearer.
Summer Splash
The Mood Is Classy Chic This Summer Season. An Enticing Clash Of Glamorous Ingredients Are Seen In These Audaciously Bold Jewels. Designed By Harshad Ajoomal Of H. Ajoomal Fine Jewellery, The In Vogue Jewels Highlight Unique Pairings Of Colour Gemstones And Diamonds.
Butani's Ingenious Wonders
Exquisite elements make for organic creations that bring Butani’s craftsmanship and artistry to the fore. The brand’s distinctive style and creative harmony tie together the jeweller’s Indian heritage and Asian aesthetics.The Hong Kong-based haute joaillerie brand recently celebrated its 40th anniversary. A capsule collection – unveiled at Basel world earlier this year to mark the forty-year milestone – featured nine exquisitely handcrafted pieces that boldly embrace the brilliance of diamonds, while highlighting the subtle flowing lines and gentle drops. Among the show-stealers were opulent pieces that brilliantly distilled the beauty of fancy yellow diamonds.
