The International Institute of Gemology (IIG) once again elevates standards in design education and industry synergy through its proud association with the 14th edition of the National Jewellery Awards (NJA). Organized by the All India Gem and Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC) in collaboration with the World Gold Council, this year’s NJA presentation—hosted at IIG’s Andheri campus—united students, mentors, and industry leaders in a celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, and the vital role of platforms that foster emerging talent.
The National Jewellery Awards (NJA) continue to be one of the most esteemed accolades in India’s gem and jewellery industry. For the seventh year in a row, the Indian Institute of Gems & Jewellery (IIG), recognized as a leading educational force, has proudly partnered as NJA’s official academic collaborator. Through its scholarship program—worth ₹10 lakhs and awarded among the top 10 “Student of the Year” finalists—IIG not only honors talent but actively invests in the future of jewellery design, offering aspiring creatives both visibility and vital resources.
Yet, this occasion goes beyond a single event. It stands as a profound reflection of IIG’s evolution under the visionary leadership of Mr. Rahul Desai, CEO and MD. Under his guidance, IIG has reimagined the role of a jewellery institute—growing from a national presence into a globally connected educational hub where innovation and tradition blend seamlessly. Here, education is not just a service—it’s a mission.
Mr. Desai, who also served as a technical jury member at NJA, shared his insights: “At IIG, we don’t just impart skills; we cultivate design thinking. Jewellery is a multifaceted discipline—combining artistry, precision, emotion, and engineering. Platforms like the NJA are crucial, as they recognize both the creative and technical strengths of emerging designers. We’re proud to help build this ecosystem. Our goal is not only to connect students to such platforms but to become a platform ourselves—where talent, opportunity, and global vision meet.”
This ambition is already being realized. From Saloni Agarwal’s groundbreaking win in 2018 to Rabiya Malik—who made history in 2021 as IIG’s first international student to win NJA honours—the institute is bridging global opportunity with Indian expertise.
Adding her voice, Ms. Gunjan Sapra, IIG’s COO and Head of the Jewellery Design Department, emphasized: “The NJA is not merely a contest—it’s a celebration of originality, skill, and vision. For our students, it offers invaluable exposure to the national stage and the chance to learn from industry leaders. At IIG, we don’t push for awards—we push for excellence. We believe deeply in our students’ potential and are proud to help guide them on their journeys.”
The session was led by Shristi Dagar from the GJC, who shared updated participation criteria with an eager audience at IIG’s Andheri campus. The event concluded with a warm expression of thanks and a commemorative gesture from the IIG team.
As the jewellery sector continues to transform, IIG stays firmly committed to its mission: delivering meaningful education, consistently raising standards, and nurturing talent that shines on global platforms. Established in 1965 and redefined for modern challenges, IIG stands as a beacon of modern heritage—dedicated to taking its students from learning labs to global laurels.