The 9th edition of The Artisan Awards, organised by the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), opened on a strong creative note as the Technical Round of judging concluded under this year’s thought-provoking subject, “Quantum-Couture – Re-Engineering Beauty”. The theme has been curated by Paola de Luca, the Futurist known for her future-forward design perspectives.
With over 550 entries received across three categories from India and overseas, the participation highlighted not just scale but a deep engagement with the brief — to reinterpret heritage through a contemporary couture lens.
Quantum-Couture envisions an aesthetic where heritage, symbolism and legacy craftsmanship metamorphose into a fresh design language.
The overarching concept was categorised into three distinct sub-themes:
- Embroidery – Translating haute couture textile artistry into jewellery, this direction focused on lacy cut-outs, airy filigree work, woven metal effects and layered pearl compositions. Lightness and negative space played a key role, making the pieces almost weightless yet intricate.
- Micro-Painting – Centred on fine detailing, this category showcased micro-mosaics, refined pavé settings, miniature enamel work, engravings and hidden narratives. Precision and storytelling took precedence, bringing intimate artistry to the forefront.
- Poetic Layers – Rooted in botanical forms and talismanic motifs, this sub-theme explored sculptural florals, bejewelled fauna, contrasting textures and coloured metals. The designs conveyed depth, symbolism and layered drama.
Together, the three directions encouraged participants to push boundaries while staying rooted in craftsmanship.
The technical round entries were evaluated by an accomplished jury panel comprising Vikram Singh, Design Director at Walking Tree (Unsaid & Her Story); Devinder Layal, Jewellery Artist and Educationist; and Sushama Kalzunkar Sawant, PD & Merchandising Head, KP Sanghvi.
Entries were assessed on originality, interpretation of theme, and technical finesse. The sheer volume of over 550 submissions made the technical round highly competitive.
After extensive deliberation, the jury selected over 60 sketches. These will now advance to the next stage, where another distinguished jury comprising national and international experts will further narrow the selection to 30 finalists. The chosen designs will then be brought to life through manufacturing for the final round.
Now in its ninth edition, The Artisan Awards continues to serve as a credible platform for emerging and established talent alike. Each year, the awards have expanded in ambition and reach, encouraging designers to look beyond conventional formats and explore narrative-driven jewellery.
This year’s theme in particular demanded balance — honouring legacy techniques while reshaping them for contemporary sensibilities.
Ashish Borda, Convener, Promotions, Marketing & Business Development, GJEPC, shared: “The 9th edition of The Artisan Awards has reaffirmed our belief that Indian jewellery designers are evolving rapidly and powerfully. With over 550 entries responding to the theme of Quantum-Couture, we saw bold imagination and fresh interpretations. Participants embraced heritage as a foundation to build something modern, reflecting the maturity of the talent pool. Through this prestigious platform, GJEPC remains committed to nurturing design innovation and positioning India as a global force in high-value, design-led jewellery.”
As the competition progresses to the next stage, anticipation builds around which interpretations of “Quantum-Couture” will move forward. If the first round is any indication, the 9th edition promises to be one of the most compelling yet — where craft, concept and couture converge in striking new ways.