JB Insights
Let us continue to harness our collective strengths, seize emerging opportunities, and embrace change with enthusiasm.
Let us uphold our legacy of craftsmanship and integrity, and propel the industry towards unparalleled success – Vipul Shah
The Indian gem and jewellery sector is a force to reckon with in the international GJ market. GJEPC has been the apex body driving India’s export-led growth in the gem and jewellery sector since 1966.Vipul Shah, Chairman GJEPC speaks to JewelBuzz on the initiatives, strategies for growth of the GJ industry, impact of geopolitical crisis on GJ sector and government policies and regulatory frameworks aiding the growth of Indian GJ sector.
Take us through the GJEPC roadmap for the year 2024—events and initiatives, strategies for growth of the GJ industry.
GJEPC is focused on growing India’s share of the global gem and jewellery pie. The Council also has a dual focus of driving export growth and creating job opportunities in the industry. Despite challenges faced in 2023, the industry is optimistic for the year 2024.
Efforts are directed towards sustaining and increasing exports to major markets like the USA, Hong Kong, and UAE. Additionally, the industry is exploring new markets such as the UK, Italy, France, Latin America, and Cambodia among many others.
Marketing efforts will be intensified to promote Indian gems and jewellery globally. This includes organising the IIJS, the India International Gem & Jewellery Show (IGJS) in Dubai and Jaipur, actively participating in major international gem and jewellery exhibitions; and facilitating product-specific and market-specific Buyer Seller Meets.
There is also a focus on investing in technology and innovation to enhance productivity, efficiency, and competitiveness. GJEPC, in collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce & Industry and SEEPZ, has launched a Mega Common Facility Center in SEEPZ Mumbai. This initiative aims to increase manufacturing capacities, drive technological advancements, and provide extensive skill development opportunities. Importantly, the services offered will benefit both SEEPZ and Domestic Tariff Area (DTA) units, reflecting inclusivity and industry-wide progress.
The geopolitical crisis and G7 sanctions banning Russian diamonds are major concerns. What is the impact on Indian diamond industry with the manufacturing sector affected drastically with shortage of rough diamonds?
The G7/EU has considered March 1st to August 31st as the “Sunrise Period.” During this phase, the US has opted for self-certification for import shipment clearance, while the EU provides two alternatives: G7 certification and a documentary evidence-based system, facilitating Indian trade in importing goods directly to India using the documentary evidence option. Certain countries allow Mixed Origin relaxation, subject to documentary evidence. The UK has provided clarification on Grandfathering diamonds movement and the necessary procedures. As of March 1, 2024, the immediate impact of G7 sanctions appears relatively manageable, with the industry adjusting to uphold support documents, coordinate two supply chains, and comprehend country-specific requirements for legal compliance. While it is still early, being only 3 weeks into the sanctions, inquiries and feedback from members are being actively received and assessed to gain a comprehensive understanding of the situation.
How are government policies and regulatory frameworks aiding the growth of Indian GJ sector?
Based on its potential for growth and value addition, the Government of India has declared the Gems and Jewellery sector as a focus area for export promotion. Over the years, through trade-friendly policies, the government has facilitated a remarkable surge in gem and jewellery exports, which now stand at USD 40 billion.
The recent Free Trade Agreements with key partners such as the UAE, Australia, and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries—Switzerland, Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein—hold substantial promise for further boosting Indian gem and jewellery exports.
However, to enhance the industry’s competitiveness in global markets and ensure sustainable development, several measures have been proposed to the government:
- Safe harbour rule for sale of rough diamonds in Special Notified Zones (SNZs)
- Introduction of Diamond Imprest License and reduction in import duty on cut & polished diamonds to 2.5%
- Reduction in import duty on gold/silver/platinum bars to 4%
- Introduction of a mechanism like “Rates & Taxes Refund” through EDI system similar to GST refund.
Despite the various challenges there is always a positive spirit. What is your message to the GJ industry?
Despite facing challenges, the Indian gem and jewellery industry has always shown resilience, relying on its renowned craftsmanship and skills recognized worldwide.
Understanding its inherent strengths, the industry perceives setbacks as temporary hurdles, consistently striving for improvement by integrating the latest technologies. Today, it stands capable of meeting the diverse demands of global markets.
My message to the GJ industry is simple: Let us continue to harness our collective strengths, seize emerging opportunities, and embrace change with enthusiasm. Together, we can navigate through any adversity, upholding our legacy of craftsmanship and integrity, and propel the industry towards unparalleled success.
JB Insights
The Evolution Of Men’s Jewellery In India
By Suresh Krishnan, VP – Sales, PNG Jewellers
Changing Lifestyles, Rising Fashion Consciousness and Demand For Self-Expression Are Driving The Rapid Growth Of India’s Men’s Jewellery Segment.
For decades, men’s jewellery in India limited itself to gold chains gifted by parents, a wedding ring, or a religious pendant. Today, the modern Indian man is embracing jewellery as a form of self-expression, personal style, and achievement. What was once considered a niche category has evolved into one of the most exciting growth segments in the jewellery industry.
We have witnessed a notable shift in consumer behaviour over the past few years. Men are increasingly purchasing jewellery not only for weddings and festive occasions but also to celebrate personal milestones such as promotions, entrepreneurial success, anniversaries, and birthdays. This transformation is being driven by a younger, style-conscious demographic that draws inspiration from global fashion, digital media, and celebrity culture.
International luxury houses have expanded their men’s jewellery offerings substantially, while Indian consumers are becoming more comfortable experimenting with bracelets, platinum bands, signet rings, pendants, cufflinks, tie pins, and customised accessories. The rise of men’s jewellery is also closely linked to changing workplace and lifestyle preferences. Today’s professionals prefer versatile pieces that transition from boardroom meetings to social gatherings. Lightweight gold bracelets, sleek chains, and minimal diamond-accented jewellery have emerged as strong performers across urban markets.
Alongside gold and diamonds, silver jewellery has emerged as a significant growth category for men. Rising precious metal prices and evolving fashion sensibilities have encouraged younger consumers to explore silver bracelets, chains, rings, and pendants as stylish yet accessible options. Silver has increasingly positioned itself as an entry-level luxury category, particularly among consumers in the 20-30 age bracket who seek design-led products for everyday wear. The growing popularity of men’s silver jewellery globally has further accelerated acceptance in India.
One of the most significant developments has been the growing popularity of jewellery gifting for men. Father’s Day, in particular, is emerging as an important occasion. Consumers are increasingly seeking meaningful gifts that carry both emotional and intrinsic value. Unlike conventional gifts, jewellery offers longevity, sentiment, and the potential for appreciation over time.
Another noteworthy trend is the growing demand for customisation. Men are looking for pieces that reflect personal stories, whether through engraved initials, symbolic motifs, family emblems, or bespoke designs. This shift mirrors a broader global movement towards personalised luxury.
While gold remains the preferred metal for many Indian consumers, platinum, silver, and diamond-studded jewellery are gaining prominence among younger buyers. Contemporary styling, lighter weights, and innovative designs have helped make these categories more accessible and relevant.
Looking ahead, the men’s jewellery category is poised for sustained growth. As societal perceptions continue to evolve and consumers become more confident in expressing their personal style, jewellery will increasingly become an integral part of the modern man’s wardrobe.
The evolution of men’s jewellery is not merely a fashion trend. It reflects a deeper cultural shift where jewellery is being recognised as a symbol of identity, achievement, and self-expression. This Father’s Day, that makes jewellery one of the most meaningful gifts a family can choose, celebrating not just tradition, but the individual behind it.
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JewelBuzz is Asia’s First Digital Jewellery Media & India’s No.1 B2B Jewellery Magazine, published by AM Media House. Since 2016, we’ve been the trusted source for jewellery news, market trends, trade insights, exhibitions, podcasts, and brand stories, connecting jewellers, retailers, and industry professionals worldwide.