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THE GEMS BEHIND OUR JEWELS

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Gold is an integral part of our lives, more so in the lives of women. Considered auspicious, gold is part of every celebration – be it festivals or personal milestones.  According to the World Gold Council, Indian women collectively own around 24,000 tons of gold, which accounts for about 11% of the world’s total gold reserves in jewellery form. It is only right to say India is the global leader in household gold ownership.  The Oxford Gold Group’s report states that the Indian households have more gold than the combined reserves of the United States, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Switzerland and Germany.

Vummidi Bangaru Jewellers has been serving the Indian community with authentic and aesthetically appealing gold jewels for 125 years, now. VBJ has been a benchmark for purity and trust for decades. Our remarkable growth story and undying patronage since the 1900 has been possible because of our quality, design and innovation in the jewellery space. Every piece of jewellery from VBJ is intricately crafted to bring out its true emotion with the purest of materials and finest craftsmanship. This has been possible because of the talented and focussed professionals of the VBJ team.

While VBJ is beyond gender classification among its team members, with women’s day round the corner, it is only right to celebrate and congratulate the women who have been instrumental for VBJ’s phenomenal growth.

We have a total of 254 women employees at VBJ – 233 in the retail and 21 in the creative centre. While it is our principle to value every employee, we are extremely proud of three women employees specifically who have spent decades with VBJ. Padmasri M has been with us for 42.08 years, Vanitha for 42.02 years and Latha S for 34.1 years. At this age and time, it is truly remarkable.  

As of now, we have 8 women designers and all of them have been trained at National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT).  In the earlier years, there have been several prominent women leaders who have made significant contributions to the brand, showcasing remarkable leadership and management skills in their respective roles like Vanitha, Latha, Revathi and Radha.

Vanitha handled the Anna Salai Silver branch, where she demonstrated her exceptional ability in managing both operational and customer service aspects of the business. As the order manager, Latha played a crucial role in streamlining the order management process.  Revathi was responsible for overseeing the Anna Nagar branch, a position that required strong leadership and managerial expertise.  Serving as the Billing Manager, Radha was pivotal in managing the financial transactions and ensuring smooth billing operations.

Specialised training programmes and growth

VBJ offers specialized training programs designed to enhance the technical and soft skills of their women professionals. The training focusses on leadership development, communication skills, technical training, and project management to ensure they are equipped to handle all departments of VBJ.

Women have equal access to all training programmes and career advancement opportunities. Our unbiased recruitment and promotion policies, focussing on merit and skills, are bringing more women to the team.

Woman power at VBJ

We have made considerable strides in increasing the female representation to reflect our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. In 2022, there was 130 women out of 584 employees, which increased to 166 (out of 748) the following year. This number escalated to 200 (out of 767) in 2024 and now it stands at 254 out of the total 847 employees. This has been possible because of focussed efforts to improve gender diversity, targeted recruitment initiatives, mentorship programmes, implementation of policies promoting work-life balance and inclusive development for women.  

In line with the theme of International Women’s Day 2025 – Accelerate Action – VBJ is working towards the continued upward trend in women participation and growth. We are strongly committed to fostering an environment where women feel valued and empowered in their roles at VBJ. At the helm, 5th generation women entrepreneurs from the VBJ family having started pouring in their creativity and fresh thoughts.

The Future of Women in Jewellery

The presence of women in the jewellery industry is not just growing—it is shaping its very foundation. Brands that actively foster gender inclusivity witness not only stronger business performance but also richer, more meaningful creations that resonate with a diverse audience. As we look ahead, the contributions of women in jewellery will continue to accelerate change – whether as designers reimagining aesthetics, artisans preserving age-old techniques, retail professionals enhancing customer experiences, or leaders driving sustainable business practices, their role is indispensable. On this International Women’s Day, let’s celebrate the true gems behind the jewels—the women who craft not just ornaments, but legacies that shine beyond brilliance.

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National News

Indriya Jewellery Brand Opens First Store in Hyderabad, Expanding Its Presence in South India

Indriya, part of the Aditya Birla Group, launches its debut store in Hyderabad, marking a key milestone in its nationwide expansion with plans to establish 100 stores by FY26.

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Indriya, the prestigious jewellery brand from the Aditya Birla Group, has officially opened its first store in Hyderabad, marking its expansion into South India. This store, located in the vibrant Kondapur area, is part of the brand’s strategic plan to increase its national footprint, with the goal of opening 100 stores by FY26.

The Hyderabad store offers a refined and personalized shopping experience, featuring a dedicated kaarigari room where customers can experience Indriya’s unique fusion of craftsmanship and innovation. With a curated collection of 15,000 pieces and more than 5,000 exclusive designs, the store offers a range of high-quality jewellery for every connoisseur.

Sandeep Kohli, CEO of Indriya, shared, “Jewellery has evolved from a mere investment to an expression of individuality. At Indriya, we focus on delivering unique designs, personalized service, and authentic regional influences to cater to our customers’ distinctive preferences.”

This opening is just the beginning, as Indriya plans to expand further in Hyderabad and across the region, cementing its position as a key player in the Indian jewellery market.

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National News

Champions Ring- Crafting a Timeless Legacy in Indian Sports

A Revolutionary Symbol of Excellence, Crafted with Gold and Diamonds to Commemorate Team India’s Historic T20 World Cup Victory

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Spearheaded by Dream11 and meticulously crafted under the expertise of Harsh Sagar, a fourth-generation jeweler with an eye for timeless artistry, the Champions Ring is more than just a piece of jewelry—it is a testament to legacy and achievement.

In the world of sports, some symbols carry more weight than others—trophies, medals, and jerseys immortalized in the hearts of athletes and fans. Indian cricket now has its own ground-breaking symbol of excellence: the Champions Ring. This first-of-its-kind honor, created to commemorate Team India’s historic T20 World Cup victory, is not merely a piece of jewelry—it is a legacy forged in gold and diamonds, designed to stand the test of time.

The Champions Ring, a project spearheaded by Dream11, was crafted under the expert guidance of Harsh Sagar, a fourth-generation jeweller known for his meticulous artistry. The design process took 450 hours, resulting in a ring that blends craftsmanship, symbolism, and innovation, making it a unique memento that far exceeds traditional awards.

Inspired by the championship rings awarded to NBA, NFL, and MLB victors in the U.S., Dream11 has introduced this concept to Indian cricket, allowing players to wear their victories in the form of a highly personalized keepsake. Beyond its opulence, the ring holds deep sentimental value for each athlete, serving as a lasting reminder of their journey and triumphs.

Crafting the Legacy

Weighing 60 grams of 18k solid gold and adorned with 330 natural diamonds, the Champions Ring exudes both luxury and significance. Designed with intricate attention to detail, the ring features a rotating Ashoka Chakra symbolizing India’s relentless spirit on the world stage. Each player’s name and jersey number are carefully engraved on their personal ring, while stars on the design pay tribute to India’s past World Cup victories.

The ring also boasts an innovative horseshoe-shaped spring mechanism that ensures a comfortable fit, combining aesthetic appeal with ergonomic brilliance. Under the leadership of Harsh Sagar, this fusion of precision engineering and artisanal craftsmanship has elevated the Champions Ring from an accessory to a profound symbol of achievement.

Redefining Sports Recognition in India

Globally, championship rings hold immense emotional significance, serving as cherished mementos of athletic achievement. In India, where cricket is revered as more than just a game, the Champions Ring sets a new precedent for how sporting success is recognized. The ring’s introduction is poised to reshape the landscape of Indian sports awards, extending the concept beyond cricket and potentially honoring outstanding athletes in football, badminton, athletics, and more.

Personalized awards like the Champions Ring have the potential to forge a deeper connection between athletes and their accomplishments, instilling pride and fostering a lasting legacy.

Overcoming Challenges in Design and Craftsmanship

Creating the Champions Ring was no easy feat. The process demanded an intricate balance between grandeur and meaning, ensuring that the ring not only embodied luxury but also carried deep symbolism. Sourcing the finest materials, perfecting the rotating Chakra mechanism, and engraving each player’s name with precision were technical challenges that required immense dedication. The ultimate challenge was ensuring that the ring remained wearable—comfortable, durable, and fit for daily life—while maintaining its regal stature. Through meticulous craftsmanship, these challenges were transformed into opportunities, setting new standards in sports memorabilia.

A Legacy to Be Worn

More than just a milestone for Team India, the Champions Ring signifies a cultural shift in how Indian sports achievements are honored. Unlike traditional trophies that are displayed in cabinets or museums, this ring is personal—worn, cherished, and carried forward as a badge of honor. It builds tradition, inspires future athletes, and reshapes the way victories are remembered.

As Indian sports continue to ascend on the global stage, the Champions Ring paves the way for a new era of recognition. Whether this tradition expands to other sports or remains exclusive to cricket, it is clear that the Champions Ring is far more than a piece of jewelry—it is a legacy, a testament to excellence, and a symbol crafted to endure for generations to come.

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National News

Gujarat’s Gold Imports Surge 62% in February Amid Strong Wedding Demand Despite High Prices

Gold imports to Gujarat rise significantly month-on-month, while silver imports plummet by 97% due to reduced industrial demand and volatile prices.

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Gujarat’s gold imports saw a sharp 62% increase in February compared to January, driven by strong wedding-related demand, even though prices remained high. However, year-on-year gold imports fell by 18%, and silver imports experienced a dramatic 97% drop.

Jigar Soni, President of the Jewellers’ Association of Ahmedabad, stated that retail demand for gold remained robust, bolstered by weddings, despite rising prices forcing buyers to spend more. Additionally, investors looking to safeguard their funds from stock market volatility shifted their assets into gold, which is traditionally seen as a safe-haven investment during times of economic and geopolitical uncertainty. The high gold prices, though, led to a preference for lighter jewelry, including lower purity gold options such as 14, 16, and 18 carat.

In February, Gujarat imported 11.32 metric tonnes of gold, up from 6.98 metric tonnes in January. However, the silver import situation was starkly different. The state imported only 3.49 metric tonnes of silver in February, a significant drop from 135.23 metric tonnes in January and 749.01 metric tonnes in February of the previous year.

Soni pointed out that gold prices in Ahmedabad peaked on February 19, reaching Rs 89,500 per 10 grams, nearly 40% higher than Rs 64,000 on the same day in 2024. This price surge also led to a rise in demand for lower-purity gold. On the other hand, silver imports faced a sharp decline primarily due to reduced industrial consumption in the state and volatility in silver prices, which caused businesses to hold off on bulk purchases.

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