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Chetan Kumar Mehta honoured with ‘Star of Karnataka’ Award
Dr. Chetan Kumar Mehta, Chairman and Managing Director of Laxmi Diamonds, Bengaluru, was honoured with the prestigious ‘Star of Karnataka’ Award. The award was presented by the Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, D.K. Shivakumar, in recognition of Dr. Mehta’s significant contributions to the jewellery industry and the state’s economic development.
The award ceremony was organised by News First Kannada, a prominent news channel in Karnataka, and was held at the Four Seasons Hotel in Bangalore. The event saw the participation of several notable personalities from various sectors, celebrating excellence across the state.
Dr. Mehta has played a key role in positioning Bengaluru as a centre for fine diamond jewellery through his leadership at Laxmi Diamonds. The brand is widely recognised for its craftsmanship, innovation, and commitment to quality. Under his guidance, the company has expanded its footprint both nationally and internationally.
Apart from his business achievements, Dr. Mehta has also been involved in philanthropic efforts, contributing to several social initiatives in Karnataka. In his acceptance speech, he expressed gratitude to the organisers and dedicated the award to his team and supporters. The evening concluded with cultural performances and networking among industry leaders, marking a memorable celebration of Karnataka’s inspiring achievers.
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Sydney Jewellery Fair Puts Education, Technology and Business Growth In The Spotlight
12 Expert-Led Sessions To Equip Jewellery Retailers With Insights On AI, Diamonds, Gemstones, Security, Insurance and Next-Generation Consumers
With the International Jewellery Fair in Sydney set to take place from 22–24 August 2026, organisers Expertise Events have announced an extensive education programme aimed at helping jewellery retailers strengthen their businesses and stay ahead of industry developments.
The three-day fair will feature 12 expert presentations, covering everything from AI and digital tools to gemstone education, diamond detection, business security, insurance and consumer trends.
The programme will open on Saturday, 22 August, with Vikas Sodhani of Unbridaled exploring how AI tools can boost sales and streamline daily operations. The day will also feature sessions on Australian opals, Colombian emeralds, jewellery business security and insurance.

Gemstone specialists Alyssa Cameron and Mateo Patino of GemstoneX will offer practical insights into Colombian emerald quality, treatments, origin and certification. Meanwhile, John Papadimitriou of Safeguard Locksmiths will focus on improving operational discipline and business controls, while Lachlan Renshaw of Centrestone Jewellery Insurance will address protecting jewellery businesses beyond the point of sale.
Technology will remain a key theme, with Ryan Abdullah and Isaac Schaider of CaratIQ demonstrating how AI and technology can help jewellers increase sales and simplify operations. Stephen Moignard of Australian Jade will also take attendees through the origins and characteristics of Australian jade.
Focus on Trust, Technology and Changing Consumers
The education programme continues on Sunday, 23 August, with Christina Loccisano of Searay presenting a live demonstration of diamond detection technology and examining how retailers can use trust as a competitive advantage.
The Gemmological Association of Australia (GAA) will address one of the industry’s most relevant areas—the distinction between natural, treated and synthetic materials, including natural and lab-created diamonds.
Other sessions will explore how outsourced manufacturing and integrated software are reshaping bespoke jewellery, while generational consultant Scott Millar will examine the trends influencing the next generation of jewellery consumers.
The final day, Monday, 24 August, will open with Mustafa Ali of Fog Bandit ANZ, who will focus on proactive approaches to jewellery business security and loss prevention.
By bringing together industry expertise, practical education and emerging technology, the Sydney Fair aims to provide retailers with actionable knowledge that can be applied directly to their businesses.
The International Jewellery Fair will be held at the International Convention and Exhibition Centre (ICC Sydney) from 22–24 August 2026.
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