DiamondBuzz
JA, key industry persons met Washington officials on concerns about Russian sanctions
Jewelers of America (JA) and key industry figures met with lawmakers in Washington, DC, last week to express their concerns about plans for sanctions on Russian diamonds.
Jewelers of America (JA) and key industry figures met with lawmakers in Washington, DC, last week to express their concerns about plans for sanctions on Russian diamonds.
“JA has been working tirelessly behind the scenes, and this visit to Washington, DC, was a critical step to ensure we minimize unnecessary disruptions to the US diamond industry,” JA president and CEO David Bonaparte said in a statement Tuesday. “We are very concerned about the additional requirements that could take effect on September 1.”
These would include adopting a European Union proposal forcing all 0.50-carat and larger diamonds destined for Group of Seven (G7) markets to pass through a single import channel in Belgium, Bonaparte noted.
JA supports efforts to keep diamonds of Russian origin out of the supply chain, including the more stringent rules that went into effect on March 1, it said. These require importers to self-certify that diamonds of 1 carat or larger are not Russian, notwithstanding their having been manufactured in a third country.
However, mandating physical verification and certification in Belgium for all rough diamonds “would cause maximum damage to the global diamond and jewelry supply chain, while having minimal effect on Russia’s diamond revenues,” JA argued in the statement.
Joining Bonaparte on the visit were Jon Bridge, chairman and counsel emeritus at Ben Bridge Jeweler; Dave Meleski, president and CEO of Richline Group; Matthew Swibel, vice president for sustainability and social impact at Signet Jewelers; and Ronnie VanderLinden, immediate past president of the Diamond Manufacturers Importers Association of America (DMIA) and president of the International Diamond
DiamondBuzz
Mangalsutra Revival 2025–26: How India’s wedding boom is powering a new era of cultural jewellery
by Viraj Thadeshwar-CEO, Shringar House of Mangalsutra Ltd
A Historic Wedding Season Driving Jewellery Demand
India is entering one of the most robust wedding seasons in recent years, with a record number of auspicious dates and full-scale celebrations making a strong comeback. This renewed vibrancy is expected to fuel significant demand for bridal jewellery across the country.
Weddings continue to remain the single-largest consumption driver for gold and diamond jewellery in India, and 2025–26 is poised to be no different. Retailers are already reporting heightened customer interest and increased pre-bookings for bridal collections, signalling bullish sentiment for the months ahead.


The Mangalsutra: A Timeless Symbol Strengthened by Tradition
At the core of this surge lies the most meaningful and culturally significant ornament in Hindu marriage — the mangalsutra.
More than a piece of jewellery, it is a sacred symbol of marital commitment, emotional connection, and lifelong partnership.
For generations, the mangalsutra has been considered non-negotiable in a bride’s trousseau. Even as tastes evolve, this deep-rooted sentiment remains unchanged. Every bride, regardless of region or style preference, views the mangalsutra as the ultimate expression of tradition and identity.


Renewed Traction as Weddings Return to Full Scale
With weddings regaining their pre-pandemic scale, the mangalsutra category is witnessing a strong revival. Retailers across India are expecting double-digit growth this season, driven by cultural significance, modern design innovation, and the desire for multiple variations of this essential ornament.
At Shringar House of Mangalsutra Ltd, this trend is even more pronounced. The brand is witnessing record retailer inquiries nationwide, indicating a clear shift toward curated mangalsutra assortments.

Modern Brides Want More Than One Mangalsutra
A key evolution shaping demand is the changing mindset of young brides. Today’s bride is both rooted in tradition and expressive in personal style, balancing heritage with contemporary fashion sensibilities.
Brides are increasingly purchasing three distinct types of mangalsutras:
- Traditional / Heavy Pieces — for rituals and wedding ceremonies
- Lightweight Daily-Wear Designs — prioritising comfort and practicality
- Occasion-Wear / Diamond Mangalsutras — designed to complement modern outfits
Versatility has become a major purchasing driver, with brides seeking jewellery suitable for both ethnic and western wear. Personal identity and styling preferences now play a stronger role in design decisions, making multi-category buying behaviour a significant growth contributor.

The Rise of Lightweight & Diamond-Styled Mangalsutras
Design trends are evolving rapidly, with rising demand for:
Lightweight, Minimalist Mangalsutras
Perfect for daily wear, these designs deliver elegance without heaviness. They are especially popular among working women and younger brides who prioritise comfort, versatility, and subtle sophistication.
Diamond-Studded Mangalsutras
This segment has emerged as the fastest-growing category. With refined brilliance and contemporary appeal, diamond mangalsutras are becoming a trousseau essential for fashion-conscious brides.
At Shringar, the design philosophy focuses on preserving the emotional essence of the mangalsutra while integrating global aesthetics, fine craftsmanship, and modern versatility.
A Powerful Moment for the Mangalsutra Category
As India embraces full-scale weddings supported by strong consumer sentiment, the mangalsutra stands at the centre of this resurgence — not merely as jewellery, but as a living cultural legacy growing stronger with every generation.
The upcoming season presents a tremendous opportunity for both retailers and manufacturers. For Shringar House of Mangalsutra Ltd, it marks a moment to celebrate heritage, drive design innovation, and strengthen its commitment to serving the emotional and cultural heartbeat of Indian weddings.
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