ShowBuzz
WOMEN OF VISION AWARDS 2025: Celebrating empowered and visionary women
Pioneers who lead with purpose, inspire with resilience, and redefine possibilities.
GJC, GJS in association with JewelBuzz presented the WOMEN OF VISION AWARDS 2025 at GJS Diwali Edition September 18 2025 . This celeberation was about honouring 15 visionary women, empowered women of the GJ industry.
The Chief Guest Manisha Gupta, Commodities Editor -at CNBC-TV18 presented the awards to the worthy winners along with Rajesh Rokde, Chairman GJC, Avinash Gupta, Vice Chairman GJC, Saiyam Mehra, IPC- GJC and Convenor GJS, Nitin Khandelwal, Past Chairman, GJC, Vivek Kabra, Founder and Publisher- JewelBuzz, Ashika Kabra, Co-Founder, JewelBuzz.
Speaking on the occasion, Manisha Gupta said, “I am delighted and overwhelmed to be here with all these empowered women.These women are an inspiration to all- and true champions. The GJC Women’s Wing is a move in the right direction. I will be glad to contribute in any I can to the GJC Women’s Wing.”
Rajesh Rokde, Chairman GJC, said “The WOV Awards are GJC’s tribute to empowered and visionary women in the gems and jewellery industry. More than ever, women are demonstrating exemplary leadership and driving their organizations to new heights. WOV Awards is our salute to their strength, inspiration and power of transformation.”
The glittering galaxy of award winners included:
Vandana Bhayyaji Rokde, Director -Rokde Jewels – Nagpur
With 25 years in the jewellery industry, Mrs. Vandana Rokde has been instrumental in leading the old gold division at Rokde Jewellers, overseeing operations across seven branches and spearheading its digital transformation. As the first woman in her family to join the business, she broke barriers in a male-dominated industry and continues to empower women through training and leadership opportunities. Her efforts have strengthened both processes and people, contributing to the brand’s expansion into gold, diamond, silver jewellery, and gifting.
Shital Subhash Dhomne, Director – MTD Jewellers – Wardha
With over 40 years of experience in the jewellery industry, Mrs. Shital Subhash Dhomne plays a pivotal role as Director of MTD Jewellers. She is actively involved in day-to-day inventory management and contributes strategically to the overall growth and direction of the company. Under her leadership, MTD has expanded its footprint with a new branch in Hinganghat and introduced a new brand, LOTUS, at Urich Mall, Wardha. Her commitment to excellence and innovation has helped steer the business toward sustained success. In recognition of her contributions, she was honored with Navbharat’s Powerful Woman Award.
Neha Shah, Director -Chandukaka Saraf – Kolhapur
Mrs. Neha Kishorkumar Shah is a leading force behind Chandukaka Saraf & Sons Pvt. Ltd., a legacy jewellery brand with roots dating back over 199 years in Baramati. Inspired by her father, Late Sheth Nemchand Hirachand Shah (Mumbai), and father-in-law, Late Sheth Jindtta Chandulal Shah (Baramati), she upholds a tradition of purity, trust, and excellence in gold craftsmanship.
Vandana Saraf, Director, Aisshpra Gems and Jewels– Lucknow
Vandana Saraf is a creative force and visionary leader in the jewellery industry. As the first woman in the Saraf family to take on a leadership role, she has been instrumental in the transformation of Hari Prasad Gopi Krishna Saraf into the modern brand Aisshpra Gems & Jewels. With a keen eye for design, she has led key initiatives in marketing, merchandising, and manpower, while nurturing the next generation of leadership within her family. Vandana is also deeply involved in CSR and social initiatives, and balances her time between business, family, and creative exploration through travel.
Varuna D Jani – Mumbai, Founder and Creative Director -Varuna D Jani Fine Jewellery
Renowned for her avant-garde style, Varuna D Jani blends 1920s glamour with modern luxury to craft haute couture jewellery. Born into the iconic Popley family, she carries forward a legacy of fine craftsmanship through her brand, redefining how women wear their dreams.Her versatile creations have been adorned by icons like Kareena Kapoor, Sushmita Sen, and Zeenat Aman, and featured in collaborations with Audi and Falguni & Shane Peacock. Celebrated globally, she has received multiple awards for her creativity, brand leadership, and design excellence.
Vandana Jagwani, Creative Director, Mahesh Notandass Fine Jewellery – Mumbai
Vandana Jagwani is a luxury industry leader and sustainability advocate, best known for founding Vandals—India’s first designer brand for lab-grown diamond jewellery. As Creative Director at Mahesh Notandass, she’s modernizing a legacy brand with innovation and purpose.
Named in the LuxeBook Top 50 (2024), Vandana champions eco-conscious design, AR-powered retail, and women’s entrepreneurship. She blends traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge tech to build brands rooted in beauty, responsibility, and progress.
Seema Kothari, Director- of Karan Kothari Jewellers -Nagpur”
Seema Kothari is a visionary business leader and social advocate, heading one of Vidarbha’s most trusted jewellery brands. She blends tradition with innovation, expanding Karan Kothari Jewellers across Nagpur, Yavatmal, and Chandrapur. Known for her commitment to ethical business and authentic craftsmanship, Seema also champions education and empowerment—having adopted four schools and led numerous women-focused initiatives.
Hema Shah, Creative Head House of Sparsh – Mumbai
Hema Suken Shah brings over 9 years of creative leadership to House of Sparsh, where she leads design, content, and brand strategy. Known for blending tradition with trend, she introduced innovations like pastel jadau, nature-inspired motifs, and Vedic-inspired wearable art for Gen Z. Her standout collections — Twilight and Tutti Fruity Cappuccino — reflect her bold, contemporary aesthetic. An advocate for ethical sourcing and artisan welfare, Hema has received accolades including the IJ Awards, GJEPC Brilliant Bharat Award, and The Artisan Award.
Chhaya Jain, Founder & Creative Director, Sensuel Jewels – Mumbai
In 2011, she co-founded Sensuel Jewels with her brothers, scaling it from a 20-member team to 250+. She has worked with leading jewellery houses such as Tanishq, TBZ, Mehta & Sons, and Khanna Jewellers, holding roles from Design Head to Product Developer.
Durga Tulsyan,Director, TJ Impex – Mumbai
With 17 years at T J Impex, Durga Tulsyan has shaped the company into a trusted partner for jewellery retailers across India, specializing in diamond manufacturing and innovative collections. She leads design, production, quality control, marketing, and client engagement, empowering family jewellers with certified, ready inventory.
Anju Talla,Director-Talla Jewellers, Jammu
With over 10 years in the jewellery industry, Mrs. Anju Talla leads product innovation and customer relationship management at Talla Jewellers. She has introduced lightweight gold and diamond jewellery and revitalised the company’s silver jewellery line—an often-overlooked segment. These initiatives have significantly strengthened customer trust and engagement. Kind supporter of GJC & GJS initiative as a buyer at the shows from past 13 years, strong hand at Talla Jewellers.
Kamana Jobanputra, Co-Founder & Executive Director – Sequel Logistics Private Limited– Bengaluru
With over 20 years in logistics, Kamana leads business development and client growth at Sequel Logistics, driving its rise as a market leader in precious logistics. She has aligned the company with global standards (LBMA, RJC, TAPA) and champions sustainability through EV fleet integration. Committed to social impact, she supports education initiatives and fosters a people-first culture built on trust and learning. Under her leadership, Sequel has earned multiple awards, including Best Logistics Service Provider at the India Gold Conference for 11 years.
Suhani Garg, Founder, Nishani Studio– Jaipur
Suhani Garg is the creative mind behind Nishani Studio, India’s first truly customizable jewellery brand. She leads design, product strategy, and brand storytelling—pioneering modular jewellery with mix-and-match chains, locks, and charms. Her vision transforms jewellery from a static accessory into a personal narrative, empowering women to express themselves through evolving designs. Recognized in Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia (2025), Suhani blends innovation, craftsmanship, and community engagement to build a deeply connected customer base.
Disha Pokharna,Creative Head – Product & Merchandising,Pure Platinum – Mumbai
A trailblazer in platinum design, Disha Pokharna leads innovation and merchandising at Pure Platinum, curating contemporary collections that blend craftsmanship with storytelling. She’s behind standout launches like Zulu, celebrating women’s strength, and has expanded the brand into luxury men’s accessories with unique designs and advanced techniques. Recognized as a Next Gen GJS Member and speaker at the GJC Women Entrepreneurs Seminar (2024), Disha Pokharna continues the legacy of her father, Mr. Vijay Pokharna at Pure Platinum.
Shradha Keshri,Director of Operations -Hira Panna Jewellers-Patna
With 44 years in the business, Shradha Keshri oversees all aspects of operations at Hira Panna Jewellers, from supply chain and sales to marketing and finance. She has implemented structured workflows, digital tools, and strong SOPs to ensure efficiency and consistency across departments. A pioneer in Bihar’s jewellery industry, Shradha has elevated the brand’s reputation for professionalism and trust, while driving modern retail practices and customer-centric innovation. She led the launch of EcoFacets – Lab Grown Diamonds, introducing sustainable luxury to the region.
The awardees- an eclectic mix of designers, members of their companies’ leadership, creative directors and more-are not just achievers; they are catalysts of change, architects of transformation, and torchbearers of progress. With their courage, wisdom, and unwavering spirit, they uplift communities, shape industries, and inspire the next generation of women to take up leadership.
ShowBuzz
Bvlgari’s Lucia Silvestri Gives Away Top Honours at The Artisan Jewellery Design Awards 2026
Global Design Vision Meets Indian Craftsmanship as Artisan Awards 2026 Celebrates Innovation and Heritage
The 9th edition of the Artisan Jewellery Design Awards 2026, organised by the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) and curated by The Futurist, concluded in Mumbai on April 8, bringing together the finest expressions of creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation in jewellery design.
The Artisan Awards 2026 were powered by GIA and supported by the World Gold Council.
Held in the distinguished presence of Lucia Silvestri, Creative Director & Gems Buying Director, Bvlgari; Amedeo Scognamiglio, Founder & Creative Director, RFMAS Jewellery Group; Dr. Annapurna Garimella, Art Historian & Designer; Siddharth Kasliwal, Founder, Gem Palace; Milan Chokshi, Founder, Moksh; Amit Pratihari, Managing Director, GIA India; and Paola De Luca, Creative Director & Trend Forecaster, and Curator of the Artisan Awards.
From GJEPC, the event was attended by Kirit Bhansali, Chairman; Shaunak Parikh, Vice Chairman; Ashish Borda, Convener – Promotions, Marketing & Business Development; Jayanti Savaliya, Regional Chairman – Gujarat; Vijay Mangukiya, Convener – International Exhibitions; Mansukh Kothari, Convener – Events; and Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director.
Instituted in 2014, the Artisan Awards has evolved into one of the industry’s most prestigious design-led platforms—encouraging originality, nurturing creative talent, and supporting India’s journey from a manufacturing powerhouse to a global design destination.
This year’s theme, “Quantum Couture: Re-engineering Beauty and Cultural Codes,” explored a powerful shift in how jewellery is conceived and experienced—where heritage is not just preserved, but reinterpreted for a new era.
Through three creative directions—Embroidery, Micro-Painting, and Poetic Layers—designers presented jewellery that is fluid, expressive, and deeply conceptual, blending traditional craftsmanship with technology, storytelling, and contemporary design thinking.
Embroidery reimagined textile traditions as structure, where elements like lace, thread, and brocade were translated into metal and gemstones. Techniques such as filigree and jali evolved into intricate frameworks, creating pieces that felt layered, lightweight, and architectural.
Micro-Painting celebrated precision and storytelling at a miniature scale—drawing from heritage crafts like meenakari and miniature art. Each piece became a detailed narrative, where craftsmanship, symbolism, and technique came together to create intimate and meaningful expressions.
Poetic Layers explored jewellery as a multi-dimensional form—where nature, emotion, and structure intertwined. Through organic shapes and layered compositions, designers created pieces that felt fluid, sculptural, and deeply expressive.
With over 550 entries, the competition culminated in 27 finalists, whose ideas were brought to life by leading manufacturers, highlighting the seamless synergy between design innovation and manufacturing excellence.
Importantly, the journey of these creations does not end here. The 27 winning pieces will go on to be showcased at leading international platforms such as JCK Las Vegas, Vicenzaoro, IIJS Bharat Mumbai, SAJEX in Saudi Arabia, and other leading trade shows—taking the brilliance of Indian jewellery design to a wider global audience and reinforcing India’s growing presence in design-led jewellery.
Kirit Bhansali, Chairman, GJEPC, said
“India has long been recognised as a manufacturing powerhouse, but the next phase of growth lies in becoming a global design destination. Platforms like the Artisan Awards play a crucial role in encouraging original thinking and shaping the future identity of Indian jewellery.”
Lucia Silvestri, Jewellery Creative & Gems Buying Director, Bvlgari, Said:
“I have always been deeply fascinated by India’s extraordinary heritage in jewellery, a tradition that is incredibly rich in craftsmanship, symbolism, and artistry. There is a profound sense of history and culture embedded in every detail, which makes it a constant source of inspiration for me. Having reviewed the design sketches, I was particularly struck by the way this heritage is being reinterpreted through a contemporary lens. There is a beautiful balance between tradition and innovation, where legacy meets modern creativity.”
Paola De Luca, Creative Director & Strategist, The Futurist LLC, Said:
“I am honoured to be part of India’s enduring legacy of jewellery and craftsmanship. India continues to inspire the world of jewellery, now empowering a new wave of creative voices and future icons. From heritage to horizon, India fuels the next generation of jewellery designers redefining global aesthetics.”
Ashish Borda, Convener, Promotions & Marketing, GJEPC, said:
“With over 550 entries responding to the theme of Quantum Couture, we witnessed bold imagination and fresh interpretations. Designers embraced heritage as a foundation to create something distinctly modern, reflecting the growing maturity of the talent pool. Through platforms like the Artisan Awards, GJEPC remains committed to nurturing design innovation and strengthening India’s position in high-value, design-led jewellery.”
The awards were adjudicated by an eminent jury comprising Lucia Silvestri, Creative Director & Gems Buying Director, Bvlgari; Amedeo Scognamiglio, Founder & Creative Director, RFMAS Jewellery Group; Dr Annapurna Garimella, Art Historian & Designer; Siddharth Kasliwal, Founder, Gem Palace; and Milan Chokshi, Founder, Moksh.
Amedeo Scognamiglio, Founder & Creative Director, RFMAS Jewellery Group, said:
“My personal journey is rooted in a multi-generational Italian family tradition of craftsmanship, where technique is inherited, refined, and respected. At the same time, I have always felt the need to challenge that legacy through a contemporary design language of my own. This duality is exactly why the Artisan Awards resonate with me. The designers I reviewed carry the same weight of heritage, but also the courage to evolve it — and that is where true creativity lives. I see in them the younger me.”
Dr Annapurna Garimella, Art Historian & Designer, said:
“Refined, ebullient, or wild — craft from India, especially in precious materials, has seduced the connoisseurs of the world for centuries. As an art historian, I am intrigued by the way historic and contemporary makers think through concept, purpose and material. As a designer working with artisan-designers and craftspeople, I am also seduced by the transmission and transformation of historic skills and knowledge. The Artisan Awards allow me to closely observe how other designers work, and it excites me to think about how they visualise concepts and realise them.”
Siddharth Kasliwal, Founder, Gem Palace, Said:
“What really stood out to me while judging at the Artisan Awards was the sheer fearlessness in creativity. There was a beautiful balance—designs that respected tradition, yet weren’t afraid to push boundaries and explore something new. That’s exactly the kind of mindset our industry needs today. Platforms like the Artisan Awards play such an important role in encouraging artisans and designers to think bigger, take risks, and evolve. It’s genuinely exciting to see this level of talent shaping the future of jewellery design.”
Milan Chokshi, Founder, Moksh, said:
“The structure of the Artisan Awards pushes the participants to really explore ideas, and at the same time present originality—extremely relevant in these times of excessive mechanical reproduction, where almost nothing seems original and everything can be made in unlimited quantities.”
Winners: The Artisan Awards 2026
| EMBROIDERY | DESIGNER NAME | MANUFACTURED BY |
| WINNER | Surajit Ghosal | Anan Jewels India LLP |
| 1ST RUNNER UP | Lekshmi Raj Manju | Walking Tree Pvt.Ltd. |
| 2ND RUNNER UP | Prajakta Vesvikar | Anan Jewels India LLP |
Winner Suraji Bhosal
1ST RUNNER UP – Lekshmi Raj Manju
2ND RUNNER UP – Prajakta Vesvikar
| MICRO PAINTING | ||
| WINNER | Kavitha Rajendran | GRT Jewellers |
| 1ST RUNNER UP | Elena Pari | Arun Jewels |
| 2ND RUNNER UP | Archangel Caszo | Farah Khan Fine Jewellery Pvt.Ltd. |
WINNER – Kavitha Rajendran
1ST RUNNER UP – Elena Pari
2ND RUNNER UP – Archangel Caszo
| POETIC LAYERS | ||
| WINNER | Namira Shaikh | Farah Khan Fine Jewellery Pvt.Ltd. |
| 1ST RUNNER UP | Nayonika Chatterjee | Walking Tree Ventures |
| 2ND RUNNER UP | Abhijit Das | Anan Jewels India LLP |
WINNER – Namira Shaikh
1ST RUNNER UP – Nayonika Chatterjee
2ND RUNNER UP – Abhijit Das
Senco Gold & Diamonds Launches Its first Rourkela Store With Bhumi Pednekar Ahead Of Akshaya Tritiya
Shringar House of Mangalsutra Unveils 3,000+ Designs, Targets Emerging Markets Ahead of Akshaya Tritiya
Global Diamond Market Showed Mixed Trends In March As The Middle East Conflict Escalates
Instamart and Kalyan Jewellers Enable Customers To Lock Today’s Gold Price For Akshaya Tritiya
Senco Gold & Diamonds Launches Its first Rourkela Store With Bhumi Pednekar Ahead Of Akshaya Tritiya
Celebrate Prosperity In Style – Akshaya Tritiya 2026 Gifting Guide By TrueSilver
-
National News7 hours agoInstamart and Kalyan Jewellers Enable Customers To Lock Today’s Gold Price For Akshaya Tritiya
-
GlamBuzz3 minutes agoSenco Gold & Diamonds Launches Its first Rourkela Store With Bhumi Pednekar Ahead Of Akshaya Tritiya
-
National News4 hours agoCelebrate Prosperity In Style – Akshaya Tritiya 2026 Gifting Guide By TrueSilver
-
National News54 minutes agoShringar House of Mangalsutra Unveils 3,000+ Designs, Targets Emerging Markets Ahead of Akshaya Tritiya
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.