Speaks Design

For a fairly new entrant in the world of jewellery, Mumbai-based designer Neha Roongtas designs are creating ripples. Her one-off compositions are bold and global in design, deftly combining the glamour quotient with high quality finish and unique gem settings.

- Shanoo Bijlani

Raised in Hong Kong in a family well-established in jewellery making, Neha was attuned to the business since her youth, but she chose to further perfect her skills at the Gemological Institute of America. Bringing in the blend of Asian cultures, teamed with typical manufacturing techniques practised in Hong Kong, Neha infuses engaging colour combinations in her couture and bespoke 18-karat gold collections. She strongly believes that jewellery has the power to influence moods and elicit reactions

What made you opt for jewellery designing?

I was raised in Hong Kong and jewellery designing was a natural transition for me, since I belong to a renowned jewellery house in Hong Kong. My father moved to Hong Kong 40 years ago and began trading in diamonds and other precious stones. Soon after, he set up state-of-the-art jewellery manufacturing factories in Hong Kong and China.

I studied International Business in California, but post my graduation, I secured Graduate Gemologist and Jewellery Designing diplomas from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).

Since my childhood days, I have always been intrigued by the natural beauty of precious gems. In my early 20s, for the sheer joy of it, I had once designed rough jewellery sketches for my family. My parents noticed my unique ability and encouraged me to pursue this professionally.

Your jewellery is immersed in diamonds and gemstones and has a very contemporary and feminine feel to it...

I believe that everyone has their own aesthetic sense which is inspired by their life experiences, culture and upbringing. My aesthetic sense is inspired by a combination of our Indian heritage, Chinese and Western cultural influences.