Blending traditional and modern designs

Her foray into jewellery designing may have happened quite by chance when she decided to rework her grandmother's heirloom pieces to make them more modern and wearable. But since then Indian born, New York based designer Jyoti Kapoor has created a name for herself in the jewellery business. Her designs have been spotted on stars like Sakina Jaffrey at the Emmy's and Jenna Burke, and now Jyoti is all set to showcase her works in India. "Being of Indian descent but residing in the States my designs are typically more modern and something that a typical New Yorker woman who goes straight from work to an evening out would wear. My pieces are not too heavy for the day, yet striking enough for the night," she says.

The designer draws inspiration for her pieces from the gemstone itself – their cut and colour. She also says that she draws ideas from the Mughal era and loves Indian art history. "The entire idea is that each creation should be like a conversation piece so that the wearer need not opt for any other accessories. Compared to the US, Indians generally prefer more coloured stones like emeralds, rubies and topaz, longer and more heavier pieces and 18-22 karat gold. Whereas in New York, more delicate pieces in pale gold or platinum or white gold are in demand," she adds. Her range is quite versatile and while some pieces cost Rs 50,000 they can go upto 20 lakhs depending on the work and stones used.

Jyoti enjoys working with polki settings in yellow gold, as well as Indian filigree and hand work and enamel on the back of pieces. "The collection I'm showing in India is focussed more on high-end bespoke designs. One can expect lots of diamonds, gemstones and polki pieces." This Valentine's special collection includes freshwater pearl necklaces set with turquoise stones, hoop earrings with karigari work, topaz and diamond rings, Russian emeralds and diamond studs and much more.

WHEN: Feb 2, 1:30 pm - 5 pm, By Appointment Only

WHERE: Oakwood Premiere, Juhu