‘IIJS virtual will help us stand out among the crowd with our unique designs’

Naman Kala of Kalajee Jewellery was on cloud nine when the IIJS Virtual was announced. He talks about his experience with GJEPC and the future in terms of sales.

What do you think about the new, virtual format of IIJS?

GJEPC always does things that are best suited to the industry’s interest. Every year, we prepare for the IIJS for months and look forward to it. It was quite a dampener when we figured that this time, the physical show would draw a blank. When news of the IIJS Virtual came, we were on cloud nine. We heaved a sigh of relief because now, the industry has something to look forward to. Despite the uncertainty around the show, we remained optimistic and prepared for three months. IIJS is the best thing that has happened to the industry and we trust GJEPC enough to know that they will do the best they can.

What you are going to present in terms of collections and products?

We specialise in diamond polki open-setting earrings without wax. We have a variety of collections, because you want retailers to pick up a few pieces from one and few from another collection. We have bold and statement studs of 50-60 mm with khowai work. We used emeralds, rubies, blue and yellow sapphires, and opaque and textured gemstones. For instance, we mixed  malakite, lapus lazuli, pink opal, tiger’s eye, three different mother of pearls with polki, which is unique. We experimented with different raw materials and colours to stand out among the crowd. We have also come up with polki balis — small pieces for small day functions.

How do you think the next six months will spell out in terms of sales? What would you like to tell retailers across the globe?

Our market is primarily in the subcontinent, so we focus mostly on the country. Since Unlock 1, we have discussed our future and how we see it. Weddings, however small, will happen and they will save a lot on decor, venue and food because of the restrictions. This will be diverted towards jewellery. So, we have been very optimistic. We also want our retailers to think on similar lines and book appointments with us.

Courtesy: Retail Jeweller India News Service