India, you truly outdid yourself. 💛
From the moment I landed in Jaipur on April 1, the air felt different — thick with history, alive with color, and brimming with possibility. It was the first stop of the GJEPC Gem & Jewelry Show, but before diving into diamonds, I gave myself permission to feel the magic of the city. And what magic it was. Attendees on the trip flew in from across North America, Europe, and Asia, and it was even more special traveling with a few of my fellow New Yorkers and new international friends from the jewelry industry.
In Jaipur we toured rose-hued palaces like Amber Fort and Hawa Mahal, stood in awe at Jantar Mantar’s cosmic instruments, and even lunched at the breathtaking Floating Palace (yes, inside the palace!). At a local textile factory, I rolled up my sleeves and tried traditional block printing and ended the day at the Gyan Museum and Jewelry Factory.
That night, as we gathered for a welcome reception. It was a cultural celebration that could’ve leapt from the pages of a Bollywood fairytale. Music, dance, fragrant foods, and a sea of turbans, bindis, and mala flower garlands wrapped us in the spirit of India. An evening to remember, indeed.
Next stop: Mumbai — the city that never sleeps, hustles hard, and dazzles even harder.
The Mumbai leg of the show was electric. We toured India's first ultra-modern Gem & Jewellery Facilitation Centre (MEGACFC), where innovation meets artistry in ways I’ll be talking about for years. Between meetings and marveling at precious stones, I didn’t have time to explore the city, but Mumbai left its mark - fast-paced, full of vision, and unapologetically busy. I also had the honor of sharing a bit about Alliyette and my experience at the show and the Indian jewelry manufacturing industry with the press teams for GJEPC-India and the India Times. Being featured was a beautiful moment of recognition, and I’m beyond grateful for the opportunity to share my brand’s story on an international stage.
Then came Surat — अगला पड़ाव, सूरत — the diamond cutting capital of the world, and the crown jewel of the trip. An exclusive event showcasing lab-grown diamonds (LGDs) manufactured in Surat was organized by the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) at the Surat Diamond Bourse , and was even featured in the Times of India. I was honored to attend the press conference and witness the spotlight being placed on India’s fast-growing leadership in the LGD space.
My observation is that the shift to labgrown diamonds is happening quickly — where many American buyers are still navigating the lab-grown vs. natural debate, India is already embracing the future. Many sellers shared that over 60% of their business is now lab-grown, with some working exclusively with these more accessible, innovative gems.
In Surat, we toured cutting-edge factories, held raw stones in our hands, and watched them transform into brilliance. We sipped fresh sugar cane juice from roadside vendors, nibbled on paan wrapped in betel leaves, and cruised past palm-shaded streets that gave off a Caribbean vibe. 🌴
But every good things must come to an end. Two weeks later, after nearly 24 hours of travel back to NYC - bus, layovers, and all, I arrived home exhausted, nursing a little cold… but with a heart overflowing with gratitude. This journey expanded my understanding of global jewelry craftsmanship and deepened my passion for this path I’ve chosen.
India, thank you for your warmth, your wisdom, and your welcome.
To the artisans, innovators, and new friends who shared your time and brilliance — I see you and I hope to work with you.
Until next time, India.फिर मिलेंगे, भारत। 🙌🏽✨
