The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council’s The Artisan Jewellery Design Awards 2014 saw some exciting designs  in its second and semi-final round of judging, which was held in Mumbai on November 20th.

The jewellery design competition based broadly on the theme of “Bollywood” had categories divided in tune with the various eras of India filmmaking -   Monochromatic Magic (black and white era), Golden Glory (golden era), Colorama (masala films era) and Avant-Garde (global era).

After receiving 800 entries, 40 finalists were short-listed in the first round of judging, based purely on the paper designs.

The eminent panel of judges for the second round were: well-known fashion designer Sabyasachi Mukerjee; leading jewellery designer Farah Khan Ali; erudite art historian and author Usha R Balkrishnan; editor, Vogue India Priya Tanna and Pinky Reddy from the family behind the GVK Group.

Their job for the afternoon? To choose 12 designs which is the final shortlist. The winners of the Awards will be announced and felicitated at a red carpet awards function in Mumbai with the who's who of the social, entertainment and jewellery trade circles in attending.

“The Artisan awards honours outstanding work and applauds the most innovative jewellery designs conceptualised by designers,” commented Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC. “With Bollywood being a big source of inspiration for us as a nation, the awards capture the glory of ‘Indian cinema’ through the ages resulting in gorgeous statement pieces which are also wearable.”

That the judges were suitably impressed is evident.

 “The pieces showcased today are absolutely stunning,” said Sabyasachi Mukherjee. “From the exquisite detailing of the jewellery designs, you can tell that the candidates have put their heart and soul into showcasing pieces.”

Farah Khan Ali added: “The jewellery pieces showcased today were gorgeous and each of the designers is a star in her own right. I’m totally awestruck by the designs that depicted the various Bollywood eras.”

Pinky Reddy commented: “Indian Cinema has always been an integral part of our culture and being a self-confessed film buff, I was fascinated to see intricate designs as part of wearable jewellery. Each era consisted of designs and colours that would transform any woman into a goddess. I must say that the Artisan Awards pays tribute to Indian Cinema in all its grandeur.”

Talking about the event, renowned art historian Usha R Balkrishnan said, “Being in the industry of design aesthetics and judging creativity based on the past events, I can tell you that the designs showcased truly elevate the designers to their rightful status as ‘artists’. This platform created by GJEPC, is a great initiative to highlight talent and give India international recognition.”

The Artisan Design Awards has partnered with RBS, Gemfields, Forevermark, Platinum Guild India, Grand Hyatt and Vogue.