Mumbai’s prominent jewellery business organization, Mumbai Wholesale Gold Jewellers Association, in collaboration with its Youth Wing, organized a spectacular business growth-oriented event at the Fine Arts Auditorium, Chembur, on June 28. The event featured a powerful motivational session by renowned speaker Dr. Ujjwal Patni.

Dr. Ujjwal Patni shared transformative insights with members and dignitaries on how to grow in business and life. He presented innovative ideas for the youth to enter the jewellery industry with a fresh perspective. A large number of jewellery business professionals were present for the event.

In the “Game Changer” session, Dr. Patni shared global insights on opening new doors for jewellery businesses even in challenging conditions. With simplicity and clarity, he explained success strategies. His delivery was appreciated by everyone, including (JITO) Mumbai Zone Chairman Dr. Vinay Jain, who shared his own inspirational journey.

Present at the event were GJEPC Chairman Kirit Bhansali, Immediate Past Chairman GJC Saiyam Mehra, Dr. Vinay Jain (JITO) Mumbai Zone Chairman, Hitesh Jain– Zaveri Bazaar Association Chairman, and event sponsors like Sky Gold & Diamonds Ltd’s Mangesh Chauhan, Mahendra Chauhan, Darshan Chauhan and others. Dr. Patni was felicitated by the Mumbai Wholesale Gold Jewellers Association for his impactful session.

To make the event successful, notable contributions were made by Association President Mahesh Bafna, Secretary- Shreyansh Kothari, Treasurer- Kamal Mehta, Vice President Sandeep Kothari & Dinesh Kothari, Joint Secretary- Rinku Bafna, Convenor- Rajesh Kothari along with Immediate Past Secretary- Anil Pamecha.

President Mahesh Bafna said, “I sincerely thank all our members and firmly believe that the Game Changer session will serve as a milestone in driving positive transformation in both business and society. It was a memorable and motivational event—one that will be remembered for a long time.”

The Second Jury Round of the Jewellery Eminence Awards (JEA) 2025 lit up Jaipur with brilliance on 13th June at Rose’ Amer, setting a new standard for creativity and craftsmanship in the Indian jewellery industry.

The prestigious event brought together some of the most innovative and breathtaking jewellery designs, evaluated by an expert panel of jurors known for their sharp insights and deep industry knowledge. Their discerning judgment helped spotlight the most exceptional entries, narrowing down the finest talents for the final stage of the competition.

More than just a jury round, the day became a celebration of artistry, innovation, and dedication. It reflected the tireless effort of designers, the collaborative spirit of the organizing team, and the unwavering support of sponsors and partners who continue to believe in the vision of JEA.

This successful milestone not only moves the competition closer to its grand finale but also reaffirms JEA’s commitment to nurturing and recognizing excellence in jewellery design on a national scale.

Premium lab-grown diamond jewellery brand Aukera has raised USD 15 million in a fresh funding round, spearheaded by Peak XV Partners and supported by its existing backers including Fireside Ventures, Sparrow Capital, Prath Ventures, and Alteria Capital.

The Bengaluru-based startup, founded in 2023 by Lisa Mukhedkar and Kumar Saurabh, announced that the newly acquired capital will be utilized to accelerate its national retail expansion, enhance its design and product innovation, and scale marketing capabilities. Currently, Aukera operates 13 company-owned stores across key metros including Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and the Delhi NCR region.

“Aukera is challenging the status quo,” said Kumar Saurabh, Co-founder of Aukera. “This investment is meaningful as we pursue our next phase of growth.”

Positioned within the premium fine jewellery segment, Aukera exclusively deals in lab-grown diamonds—a rapidly expanding category that resonates with modern consumers seeking sustainable, ethically sourced, and cost-effective alternatives to mined diamonds. All diamonds offered by Aukera are IGI-certified, with a blend of customisation options, traditional-meets-modern designs, and an omnichannel presence combining e-commerce with physical retail outlets.

The funding comes at a time when India’s lab-grown diamond (LGD) market is witnessing exponential growth. Currently valued at approximately USD 2.6 billion, the sector is projected to expand significantly over the coming years. Lab-grown diamonds are created using advanced technological processes that replicate the physical and chemical properties of natural diamonds, making them environmentally and economically viable.

“Driven by structural tailwinds and a strong consumer shift, Aukera is well-positioned to lead India’s fast-growing lab-grown diamonds category,” said Abhishek Mohan, Principal at Peak XV Partners.

“Aukera is not just another lab-grown diamond jewellery brand—it’s aiming to redefine how fine jewellery is consumed in India,” said Kanwaljit Singh, Managing Partner at Fireside Ventures, which initially invested in the brand in 2024.

Looking ahead, Aukera aims to scale its operations to INR 1,000 crore in revenue over the next five to seven years, by entering new markets, opening additional stores, and building a stronger brand presence.