Is Bridal Jewellery All About The Big Rocks Now?
Are you a modern Indian bride-to-be who has said yes to the proposal and to your wedding dress? The obvious next step is picking the jewellery to add all the sparkles to your look for the big day. What are you inclining towards taking the traditional Indian path of the good old gold and kundan jewels or the one leading to carats worth of shimmer and shine in the form of on-trend gemstones encrusted wedding jewellery.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by KIARA (@kiaraaliaadvani)
Whether it is the OG engagement ring, or the bridal jewellery trousseau; what are the contemporary Indian brides opting for? Are they going the gemstones route taken by many a celebrity in the recent years such as Kiara Advani, Parineeti Chopra, Nayanthara and more? Or are they wanting to take the gold jewellery route? Well, if the road taken is that of the gemstones, let us decode if it is all about the big rocks for the new-age brides or are they going for a different aesthetic?
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by @parineetichopra
NDTV spoke to jewellery industry stalwart and designer, Sunita Shekhawat, and other leading jewellers including Angara, Craftier, Golubhai Badalia Diamonds, Akoirah and more to decode if today's bridal jewellery is all about big rocks being worn as a status symbol or do these choices resound with their tastes as well.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Netflix India (@netflix_in)
Every Girl Dreams Of The Big Solitaire As A Wedding Ring, How Has This Trend Stayed Timeless?
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Sunita Shekhawat (@sunita_shekhawat_jaipur)
Sunita Shekhawat, who helms Sunita Shekhawat Jaipur, tells NDTV, "I personally feel solitaire has stayed timeless because it represents purity, commitment, and individuality. It's elegance lies in its simplicity, making it just as relevant for the modern bride as it was for generations past. Whether set in classic gold or paired with traditional meenakari, it remains a powerful symbol of love that transcends trends."
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Sunita Shekhawat (@sunita_shekhawat_jaipur)
Aditi Daga, co-founder of Angara, seconds Sunita Shekhawat's opinion, "The solitaire is classic because it's versatile and symbolic. Brides still choose it, but today they're looking for more value and personalisation."
Namrata Kothari, founder at Akoirah by Augmont, is of the same opinion as well, "The solitaire ring remains a timeless classic because it symbolizes simplicity, elegance, and the commitment that comes with marriage. Its understated design is universally loved and has always been a symbol of eternal love."
Achal Gupta, jewellery designer and founder Craftier, too says, "There's a reason the solitaire has maintained its position in the heart of every bride-to-be. The solitaire is a timeless, elegant setting informing all-time commitment. Today, with lab-grown solitaires brides can own that dream, having it beautifully made with consciousness."
Golu Bhai and Ishmita Badalia founders of Golubhai Badalia Diamonds, tells NDTV, "A solitaire isn't just a ring; it's a sentiment of a promise cast in brilliance. The timeless appeal of the solitaire lies in its purity and symbolism. Brides may evolve, styles may shift, but the big solitaire remains the ultimate emblem of enduring love."
That is a unanimous industry wide opinion, we must say.
The Shift From Gold And Kundan Jewels To Gemstone Heavy Jewellery Is Real. What Do The Contemporary Brides Want As Their Bridal Jewels?
Sunita Shekhawat expresses her opinion on the shift and the preferences of the modern-day brides, "Today's brides are looking for jewellery that tells a personal story. While traditional gold and kundan will always hold a place of pride, contemporary brides are embracing gemstones bases their colour and individuality. They want sets that are versatile, something they can wear beyond the wedding day, that reflects their personality while still honouring heritage."
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Sunita Shekhawat (@sunita_shekhawat_jaipur)
Aditi Daga is coincidentally of the same opinion again, "Brides want jewellery that feels personal, intentional, and wearable beyond the wedding day. There's a move away from bulky sets toward modular, high-impact pieces like stackable gemstone rings, or layered necklaces with mixed cuts and textures. We've seen strong demand for gemstones like rubies, sapphires, and emeralds in bridal orders, especially pieces that can be worn again at receptions, anniversaries, or even as daily heirlooms."
This expresses how the new-age brides pick pieces that mirror their stories and opt for jewellery that are wearable beyond their wedding day.
Do The Brides Of Today Prefer A Certain Gemstone Such As Emeralds Or Diamonds Over The Others?
Sunita Shekhawat tells NDTV what the brides of today prefer in terms of gemstones. "Coloured stones are becoming a quiet favourite amongst contemporary brides. They present a unique blend of rarity, luxury, and personal expression. Brides today are looking beyond the traditional they want something meaningful and distinctive. Naturally sourced coloured diamonds, with their subtle hues and timeless appeal, fit beautifully into that vision. They're elegant, expressive, and truly one-of-a-kind-just like the modern bride."
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Sunita Shekhawat (@sunita_shekhawat_jaipur)
Anchal Gupta also shares a similar point of view that diamonds are a bride's first choice. "No other gemstone replicates the brilliance and emotional value of a diamond; but emeralds and sapphires are on the rise, especially among brides looking for that exceptional touch with their bridal attire, all-the-while being mindful of sourcing."
Are The Size And Carats Of Gemstones Becoming A Symbol Of The Price Tag Attached To Them? Or Is There An Aesthetic Element Involved When Young Brides Look For Their Wedding Jewellery?
Sunita Shekhawat tells NDTV that contemporary brides rate the emotional value their jewellery over their carats and size. 'While size and carat still carry a certain prestige, brides are far more attuned to the aesthetic and emotional value of their jewellery. They want pieces that reflect their personality, not just their price tag. The craftsmanship, design, and how a jewel complements their style matter just as much, if not more than the weight or size of the gemstone. At our atelier, we often see young brides choosing refined, thoughtfully designed pieces where the beauty lies in detail, colour, and hentage. For them, it's about how the jewellery feels, not just how much it weighs.'
Aditi Daga adds her opinion, "For today's brides, aesthetics and meaning often outweigh just carat size. While size can influence price, it's no longer the sole marker of value. Many brides are now asking smarter questions about origin, treatment, quality, and craftsmanship."
How Have Gemstones Set Bridal Jewellery Trends In The Recent Years?
Sunita Shekhawat tells NDTV how gemstones can be credited with refreshing the bridal jewellery trends, "Gemstones have brought a fresh vibrancy to bridal jewellery, Brides today are moving beyond all-gold looks and embracing colour-deep emeralds, royal blues, and soft pastels. These stones add personality, emotion, and a sense of individuality, making each bridal look truly unique, It's a beautiful shift toward meaningful luxury."
Golu Bhai and Ishmita Badalia express a similar opinion, "Gemstones have diversified bridal palettes, but diamonds continue to dictate the bridal aesthetic. Solitaire engagement rings, chandelier diamond earrings, and layered diamond necklaces remain at the forefront, occasionally accented by coloured stones."
Has Kareena Kapoor's Solitaire Wedding Ring Become A Cult Symbol For The Brides Of Today To Get Similar Wedding Rings?
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Kareena Kapoor Khan (@kareenakapoorkhan)
Sunita Shekhawat completely agrees, "Kareena Kapoor's solitaire ring definitely sparked admiration and set a trend, especially among modern brides who appreciate timeless elegance. The solitaire's simplicity combined with its classic appeal makes it a coveted choice. While each bride wants something unique, Kareena's ring has certainly inspired many to embrace understated sophistication in their wedding jewellery."
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Sunita Shekhawat (@sunita_shekhawat_jaipur)
Aditi Daga tells NDTV a different tale on this matter, "It probably set a benchmark for clean, classic design. But today's brides want more than replication. Many still gravitate toward solitaire silhouettes, but they're adding personal touches like hidden halos, coloured side stones, vintage-inspired galleries, and meaningful engravings."
Speaking of Celebrities, Comment On How Gemstones Are Taking Centre stage on International Red Carpet
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by BVLGARI Official (@bvlgari)
Aditi Daga tells NDTV, "What we're seeing on global red carpets is a return to jewellery with soul. Gemstones are stepping into the spotlight not just for their beauty, but for their power to communicate individuality, heritage and intention. When Priyanka adorns herself in emeralds or when Diljit pairs a s herwani with emeralds and tourmalines, it's not just fashion. It's storytelling. These choices reflect a deeper cultural confidence and a desire for luxury that feels personal rather than prescribed."
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by DILJIT DOSANJH (@diljitdosanjh)
Golu Bhai and Ishmita Badalia also say, "The MET Gala 2025 was nothing short of a gemstone spectacle. From Priyanka's breathtaking emerald-studded neckpiece to Diljit's diamond-dripped ensemble, one thing was clear-bigger is back. Even celebrities are now leaning into the grandeur of high-carat diamonds. It's not just Hollywood; Bollywood too has caught the fever. Diamonds have officially become the craze of the century, and it's refreshing to see Indian stars take the global stage with unapologetic sparkle. The era of minimalism has made way for maximalism-with diamonds leading the charge."
Just Like Gold Jewellery, Do These Gemstones Jewels Hold And Grow in Value Or Are Breaking Your Bank?
Sunita Shekhawat tells NDTV about the intricacy of investing in gemstones as bridal jewels, "Gemstones, when carefully chosen for quality and rarity, can indeed hold and even appreciate in value over time-much like gold. However, the key is understanding their origin, craftsmanship, and market demand. While some pieces may be an investment, others are meant to be cherished for their beauty and personal meaning rather than financial return. So, it's about balancing passion with prudence."
Aditi Daga keeps it short and sweet and opines the same, "Rare gemstones do hold value and are appreciating assets."
Top Three Gemstones For The Contemporary Indian Bride
Sunita Shekhawat says, "For the modern Indian bride, emeralds, rubies, and sapphires remain timeless favourites. Emeralds bring a fresh vibrancy and symbolise prosperity, rubies exude passion and strength, while sapphires add a touch of royal elegance. Together, they beautifully blend tradition with contemporary style."
Achal Gupta adds, "Well, without any doubt big solitaire diamonds, vintage-inspired sapphires, and rich emeralds for contrast are the top three gemstones. Together, they create a bridal palette that's classy, elegant, versatile, and forward-thinking."
Conclusive Take On The Future Of Gemstones And Indian Brides
Sunita Shekhawat says that the contemporary brides lean towards expression of their individuality over opting for gemstones as status symbols, "Indian brides today crave individuality, sustainability, and stories behind every stone. Gemstones will no longer just be symbols of status but powerful expressions of identity and values. Expect a surge in ethically sourced gems, bold colour combinations, and personalised designs that break the mold-making every bridal piece as unique as the bride herself."
Golu Bhai and Ishmita Badalia add a different point of view, "The future is brilliant and undeniably diamond studded. As Indian brides seek luxury with meaning, we foresee solitaires and standout diamonds continuing to dominate, with accent gemstones adding flair. It's the age of bold elegance, and the big rock is here to stay."
Let us be honest, the brides of today follow the 'all that sparkles is a big rock' jewellery mantra while following their hearts desires and aesthetics alike.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Economic Times
34 minutes ago
- Economic Times
Diljit Dosanjh cheers ‘Sardaar Ji 3's' global success despite Indian outrage over Pakistani co-star Hania Aamir
Diljit Dosanjh's Instagram stories celebrating Sardar Ji 3's collection overseas. (Screenshots: Instagram) 'Film was shot before tensions escalated': Diljit speaks out FWICE demands Diljit's removal from Border 2 Singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh , who has dominated headlines this year with his sold-out concerts and debut at the Met Gala , is now in the spotlight for an entirely different reason. His latest Punjabi film Sardaar Ji 3 has run into controversy after Pakistani actress Hania Aamir was revealed as the female lead in the film's trailer. The revelation triggered backlash in India, especially in the aftermath of April's Pahalgam terror attack , prompting the makers to limit the release to overseas markets the domestic stir, Dosanjh appears unfazed, actively celebrating the film's international success and audience response. Sharing Instagram stories of packed theatres and box office numbers from Pakistan and other foreign territories, the actor showed clips of elated crowds cheering, especially when Hania appeared onscreen. One video, originally posted by Universal Cinemas, stated, '12 shows on ultra screens, the largest in the country. The overwhelming response from the audience for Sardaar Ji 3.'According to reports from Box Office India , the film managed to rake in ₹11.03 crore globally within just two days. The opening day saw collections of ₹4.32 crore, with day two witnessing a significant jump to ₹6.71 crore. All the revenue, notably, came from outside an interview with BBC Asian Network, Diljit Dosanjh addressed the criticism regarding the timing and casting of the film. He clarified that the film was completed in February 2025, well before the recent Indo-Pak tensions escalated. 'Jab yeh film bani thi tab situation sab theek tha. We shot this in Feb and then everything was fine,' he said, adding that certain developments were beyond their control. The makers, acknowledging public sentiment in India, chose to release the film internationally in an attempt to recover their investments. 'Even when I signed the film, everything was fine. Now, the situation is not in our hands,' he said, supporting the decision to avoid an Indian backlash has not stopped at Sardaar Ji 3. The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has taken a firm stance, urging the producers of the upcoming patriotic film Border 2 to remove Diljit from the project. According to the federation, it is 'unacceptable' to have Dosanjh star in a film that portrays national pride after his association with a film featuring a Pakistani actor. While no response has been received from the film's producers Bhushan Kumar and Nidhi Dutta, FWICE has escalated the matter by appealing to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to revoke permission for the film's scheduled shoot at the National Defence the debate continues, Diljit Dosanjh remains focused on the film's global reception, seemingly unaffected by the calls for boycott or criticism at home. Whether this controversy will impact his future projects, especially one as high-profile as Border 2, remains to be seen.
NDTV
an hour ago
- NDTV
"Eggs To Die For": Gordon Ramsay's Perfect Way To Fry Eggs Is A Hit Online
Eggs have always been a staple in breakfast platters. From omelettes and scrambles to unique innovations of eggs, the recipes don't fail to amaze foodies. But do you know the perfect way to fry eggs? In a recent video going viral on Instagram, British celebrity chef and restaurateur Gordon Ramsay shared how to fry eggs in foaming butter using a few delectable sauces. The chef starts his recipe by cracking two eggs into an oiled frying pan filled with a cube of butter, left for heating. The chef says, 'Eggs to die for. First off, a touch of oil, butter into the pan, get your eggs, crack on a flat surface, open them up and into the pan. Again, into the pan [goes the second].' Then, he adds pepper, a touch of salt, and a little touch of chilli flakes for a nice seasoning, and continues, 'Once you've got that butter foaming, roll the pan around and that foaming butter cooks the egg white beautifully. And when you roll them around like that, it sort of almost floods the centre of that egg with that foaming butter.' The multi-Michelin-starred chef calls it 'quite an art' to fry an egg perfectly. He also mentions, 'I love the ends nice and crispy. I like all the white beautifully cooked,' before adding a touch of sriracha and then Worcestershire sauce onto the eggs. 'And then from there, just turn the gas off, and the remaining heat in this pan will continue cooking those eggs.' Undoubtedly, the fluffy end products left our mouths watery. The video has been viewed close to 5.3 million times. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Gordon Ramsay (@gordongram) Take a look at the reactions to this recipe: Professional recipe developer Megan Keno wrote, 'Knows what I'm making for breakfast.' Popular Middle East chef Leyla Fathallah mentions, 'Butter makes everything better.' 'Eggceptional,' read a comment. A person mentioned, 'Looks tantalising.' Meanwhile, many others pointed towards the amount of oil the chef used in his dish. One user said, 'Gordon: Just a touch of oil. Also Gordon: pours half the bottle and throws in a stick of butter. Me: Is the egg frying or going for a deep sea swim?' Another person asked, 'Hello Gordon, how do you deal with two eggs that are too oily?'
Hindustan Times
2 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
James Bond in 2025? Costume designer Jany Temime questions if the spy formula still fits
Jany Temime, the acclaimed costume designer behind Skyfall and Spectre, is asking the question many longtime fans have wondered: can James Bond still work in today's world? Speaking to Deadline at the SCAD Lacoste Film Festival in France, Temime, who helped shape Daniel Craig's sharp look in the 2012 and 2015 films, reflected on her time with the franchise and the challenges it faces now. Jany Temime discusses the future of James Bond in 2025.( janytemime_costume_designer/ Instagram) Also Read: Brad Pitt breaks silence on what made co-star Damson Idris 'won out' in auditions 'We made two beautiful James Bonds, two amazing gems,' Temime said, crediting the magic to Craig, director Sam Mendes, and producer Barbara Broccoli - a combination she called the 'Golden Trio.' Temime didn't hold back on the hurdles that lay ahead. She recalled that Mendes had already worked hard a decade ago to add more depth and nuance to the Bond character. 'He tried his best with a lot of psychology, talent, and his incredible quality as a director,' she said. Now, she believes the stakes are even higher. 'I'm a James Bond fan, but how are you going to have a guy killing somebody, making love to a woman, and then drinking a Martini to forget... I'm really wondering how you can adapt that formula to 2025,' she added. Her comments come shortly after reports that Dune director Denis Villeneuve has been tapped to helm the next Bond film. It will be the first Bond movie not directly overseen by the Broccoli family, after Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson handed over creative control to Amazon and MGM Studios earlier this year. Also read: Next James Bond? Tom Holland, Jacob Elordi, Harris Dickinson top wishlist for Denis Villeneuve's film Temime hesitates to name possible new Bond Temime expressed full confidence in the new creative team. She spoke highly of producer David Heyman, with whom she worked during the Harry Potter films. She also called Denis Villeneuve's upcoming direction 'excellent' and wished the team luck. However, she refrained from speculating about who might play the next Bond. 'I know so many incredible, wonderful, sexy young actors, but it depends what direction they want to go.' Temime was being honored with the SCAD Etoile Award at the Lacoste Film Festival. Reflecting on her journey, she shared stories from Harry Potter, including how she dressed the characters to look relatable, not magical. FAQs What is the next James Bond movie coming out? The next James Bond film is currently in development with Denis Villeneuve set to direct, but no official title or release date has been announced yet. Which James Bond is most popular? Sean Connery is widely regarded as the most iconic James Bond, though Daniel Craig gained massive popularity with modern audiences. What does 007 stand for? The code '007' designates Bond's license to kill, with '00' signifying elite status in MI6 and the '7' being his specific agent number. Where can I watch the James Bond movies? James Bond films are available on streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video, which owns the franchise rights through MGM.
