Models sport diamonds, steal hearts!

CHENNAI: Models sporting Julie Verghese clothes and  pendants, bracelets, necklaces and other elegantly crafted ornaments by highly skilled goldsmiths impressed audiences who had gathered to witness the fashion show that had been organised by the Kantilal Diamonds store in Nungabakkam at its premises. The ornaments that the models sported ranged from being modestly sensuous to elegantly conservative to divinely traditional. Kantilal Diamonds showcased their exclusive designs of diamond jewellery at the fashion show which was organised as part of the event arranged to mark the launch of their new collections – Bridal, Party wear, Light Weight and Daily wear. Since its inception in 1938, Kanitlal has been the favourite of several many diamond lovers. Their clientele are not only from India but also from the US,  the UK and Dubai. Speaking about the increase in the price of diamonds, Sirish Mehta, the owner of Kantilal Diamonds said, “Just like gold, the price of diamonds has increased in the recent six to eight months by 60 to 70 per cent. So, in India, the demand for diamonds is not that high compared to gold. But having a diamond has gained importance as  for several women, it has a sentimental importance.”  Kantilal Diamonds’handcrafted jewellery has led them to stand out as a master craftsman among their competitors. “We don’t do whole sale marketing. All our jewellery pieces are designed and produced in our own factories and by our goldsmiths in Chennai. So, we also meet the demands of our customers by crafting a design of their choice,” says Jigar Mehta, co-owner of  the store. In the recent collection that was showcased, emphasis was on light weight jewellery that could be worn on any occasion. Mixed with traditional values and contemporary design, the bridal collection was a hit among the spectators present at the show. “In our wedding collection, necklace sets are studded with diamonds and precious stones in a perfect combination. We have attained the Victorian style to each piece by designing the three rows of diamonds encrusted in gold,” adds Jigar.Though Kantilal exhibits a lot of antique design, they don’t use uncut diamonds in their jewellery. “All the diamonds are cut to different shapes and are polished. We still design the 14 diamond earring that is quite popular among a lot of women in Chennai,” he says.