Fast forward to today, and Félix’s wildest dreams seem to have come to life at Cartier’s latest high jewellery collection, Nature Sauvage, previewed at the historic Kursalon Hübner gallery in Vienna. Among the star pieces is the Koaga necklace, a masterful creation where a zebra clasps an emerald-cut diamond and a 6.25-carat pear-shaped rubellite in its mouth. The zebra’s form is exquisitely rendered in alternating onyx stripes and pavé diamonds, making the creature feel almost lifelike.

The relationship between animals and jewellery has deep mythological roots, often glorified through rituals and symbolism. In ancient Egypt, scarab beetles were worn as earrings to signify respect for life’s cyclical nature. Meanwhile, in Hellenistic Greece, gods and goddesses took on the forms of winged creatures in adornment. So, what is it about animal-themed jewellery that continues to captivate us? According to Amanda Triossi, a jewellery historian based in Rome, the allure lies in our primal instincts: “Wearing wild animals like panthers or tigers gives one the sense of having conquered them. It’s empowering, as if you inherit the animal’s strength and attributes.”

Cartier captures this essence beautifully in its Amphista necklace. Featuring two intertwined snakes with diamond scales set with emeralds, their heads adorned with kite-shaped diamonds, the necklace echoes ancient Chinese philosophy’s yin-yang balance. The pièce de résistance? Nine octagonal Colombian emeralds, weighing a total of 14.72 carats.

Triossi also notes that many historical heroes are often depicted draped in the skins of animals they’ve vanquished, a symbol of triumph. Today, jewellery transforms that symbol into something precious and eternal—animal skins reimagined in imperishable materials.

Later that evening, at a celebration held at Vienna’s Kunsthistorisches Museum, the largest in Austria, the enchantment of Cartier’s collection was heightened. The museum’s octagonal domes featured paintings of animals dancing with angels, setting the stage for a magical night. Guests were greeted by masterpieces such as Rembrandt’s Self-Portrait and Caravaggio’s Madonna of the Rosary, alongside Cartier page boys in their signature red hats. The evening’s soundtrack, a seamless blend of Bach and Kygo, was curated by DJ Gillian Sagansky, lending a modern twist to the classical ambiance.

The following day brought another cultural adventure—a visit to Otto Wagner’s Villa, a stunning summer palace designed by the famed architect. The paintings adorning the villa’s walls depicted animals in various forms—some caught in purgatory, others wandering the biblical bardo, with alligators restlessly emerging from swampy landscapes.

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With the festive season approaching, it’s the perfect time to invest in jewelry that can be cherished for generations. These timeless creations, adored by Hollywood stars and royalty alike, are always a wise choice. From the instantly recognizable Cartier Love bangle to Chanel’s classic pearls, De Beer’s diamond studs, and Van Cleef & Arpels’ lucky Alhambra talisman, here are 10 truly special pieces to buy now and wear forever.

For those seeking more budget-friendly options, don’t forget to explore these affordable jewelry brands as well.

The Cartier Tank Watch

Introduced in 1919, the Cartier Tank Watch was inspired by the armored vehicles of World War I, with its sleek design reflecting the tracks of early tanks. Its timeless elegance has ensured a devoted following ever since.

The Tiffany & Co. Open Heart Pendant

Designed by Elsa Peretti, who joined Tiffany & Co. in 1974, the Open Heart pendant features a sleek, open-centered heart inspired by Henry Moore’s sculptures. Its modern yet classic design remains a favorite.

The Chanel Pearl Earrings

Pearls add an instant touch of sophistication, and Chanel’s pearl earrings are a perfect example. Coco Chanel famously adored pearls, and her fashion house continues to celebrate them with elegant designs that remain stylish.

The Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra Necklace

First launched in 1968, the Alhambra necklace is inspired by the Alhambra Palace in Spain. Its design, featuring clover-shaped motifs and vibrant semi-precious stones, remains a Van Cleef & Arpels signature.

The Bulgari Serpenti Watch  

Since the 1940s, Bulgari’s Serpenti collection has embodied the allure of the serpent. Elizabeth Taylor’s famous appearance wearing the Serpenti watch in “Cleopatra” cemented its iconic status.

The Boodles Diamond Tennis Bracelet

Popularized by tennis player Chris Evert in the 1970s, this elegant bracelet features a continuous row of diamonds, making it a versatile piece that complements any outfit.

The Piaget Cuff Bracelet

Piaget, originally a watchmaker, began crafting exquisite gold jewelry in 1961. The stackable gold bangles, inspired by Mediterranean hues, offer a touch of sunny warmth.

The Harry Winston Cluster Earrings

Renowned for handling some of the world’s most famous diamonds, Harry Winston’s cluster earrings, with their dazzling pear and marquise-cut diamonds, continue to be a symbol of glamour.

The Cartier Love Bracelet

Created in 1969 by Aldo Cipullo, the Cartier Love bracelet is an iconic piece symbolizing eternal love. Its unique design, secured with tiny screws, has made it a beloved classic.

Investing in these pieces ensures you’ll have timeless, elegant additions to your jewelry collection that will continue to bring joy for years to come.

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In the world of “forever” jewelry, epitomized by iconic pieces like the Cartier lock bracelets, welded chains are the latest evolution. This process, usually performed at specialized independent jewelry stores, involves welding delicate bracelets or rings so they can’t be removed, eliminating the need for a clasp. A skilled artisan uses a tiny “jump ring” to securely link the custom-fit chain, creating a piece that stays with you always.

If you’re curious about how long permanent jewelry truly lasts, many stores claim it can endure as long as you desire, depending on the metal you choose. Most options are crafted from solid 14k gold, designed to withstand everyday activities like showering and swimming.

However, since gold is a soft metal, it may loosen slightly over time. That’s why it’s crucial to get the fit just right from the start, allowing for a bit of extra space. This is especially important for delicate chains, which could snag if they’re too loose. Fortunately, many stores account for this and often include one free reattachment with each purchase.

As the name implies, permanent jewelry is not easily removed (unless you choose to cut it off), making it essential to select pieces that fit seamlessly into your daily routine, including exposure to lotions and perfumes. Investing in high-quality metals like 14k white or yellow gold can ensure that your jewelry withstands the test of time and is compatible with various skin types.

Jewelry made from base metals, cheap alloys, or materials with high nickel content is more prone to causing skin reactions. If you’ve ever experienced redness, itchiness, or bumps after wearing an accessory, it could be a sign of a nickel allergy. Those with sensitive skin should either avoid permanent jewelry or consider getting a patch test from an allergist before making a purchase.

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Diamond choker necklace with pearl drops

At the lavish wedding celebration for Sonam Kapoor and Anand Ahuja in 2018, Nita Ambani wore a necklace made of flawless diamonds. Nita wore an embroidered lehenga in a beige shade from the collection of Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla, the designer partnership. She completed her ensemble with a choker made of pearl and diamonds, layered pearl necklace, and bold earrings.

Princess-cut diamond neckpiece

Nita Ambani was immaculate and lovely during her daughter Isha Ambani’s reception with Anand Piramal. She donned a baby pink chiffon saree that was profusely embroidered with buti work and cream-colored stones. She exuded elegance by pairing her outfit with a shirt embellished with intricate embroidery. All eyes were drawn to her princess-cut diamond neckpiece with cuboid-shaped diamonds and matching earrings, though. It was just too good to miss.

Jadau polki diamond jewelry set

On December 12, 2018, at Antilia, Isha Ambani’s mother Nita dressed simply like a queen. She chose a white lehenga by famous designers Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla, which she accessorised with a dupatta, matching choli, and a red chadar with crystal embellishments tucked under her left shoulder. But her dazzling jewellery was what really made her look elegant. She wore a sleek nath, a maang teeka, bangles, a necklace, matching earrings, and a haath phool with jadau polki diamonds.

Polki Diamond Jewellery Set

During her daughter Isha Ambani’s wedding, Nita Ambani looked stunning in an ethnic outfit the colour of sunshine. Nita paired it with one of her statement pieces of jewellery, which included a sleek maang teeka, bangles, matching diamond drop earrings, and a polki diamond neckpiece exquisitely crafted with golden strings, to complete her look book.

Kundan set with gold-wired diamonds

A glance at Nita Ambani’s gorgeous ensembles with bold jewellery conveys a sense of royalty. During one of her public outings, she was observed displaying her elaborately designed jewellery to complement her traditional style. She chose a vivid orange lehenga choli and accessorized it with a haathphool, matching jhoomar earrings, and a gold-wired diamond kundan necklace that was fastened with two enormous pendants.

Two-tiered necklace made of diamonds and emerald stones

Nita Ambani wore a multicoloured choli with a bandhani lehenga at her son Akash Ambani’s wedding. She also chose to wear stunning diamond jewellery, which included a sleek nath, a maang teeka, matching earrings, and a two-tiered necklace set with emerald stones. The whole outfit she was wearing made her appear stunning.

Giant emeralds embellishment an uncut diamond necklace

With her poise and grace, Nita Ambani may easily outshine any Bollywood diva in terms of style statements. The wealthiest business tycoon’s wife possesses some unusual diamond jewels. During one such occasion, she was observed wearing a distinctive necklace set with enormous emeralds and uncut diamonds. She looked stunning when she wore her neckpiece with matching earrings, a large ring, and flower-shaped diamond bangles.

Saat Nori diamond necklace

Nita wore an orange silk saree and beautifully matched it with diamond jewels for Radhika Merchant’s Arangetram programme. She was undoubtedly one of the most beautiful women of that era. Nita’s jewellery choices included a large locket and a diamond Saat Nori Haar with pearl tiers, matching flowery jhumkas connected by diamond long chains, a massive heart-shaped ring, and diamond bangles.

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“Navaratna” means “nine gems” in Sanskrit, and this particular type of jewelry is set with nine distinct gemstones, each of which stands for a different heavenly body. It is believed that the placement of these jewels in the jewelry has astrological significance and will benefit the wearer in terms of prosperity, health, and general well-being. The diamond, ruby, emerald, blue sapphire, yellow sapphire, coral, pearl, hessonite, and cat’s eye are the commonly recognized nine jewels. In Vedic astrology, each gem is linked to one of the nine planets.

Old Indian writings such as the Garuda Purana and Vedic astrology are where Navaratna jewelry first appeared. According to these books, one can balance their life and harness the planetary forces by using particular gemstones.

Navaratna jewelry underwent a design evolution over the course of centuries, embracing elaborate designs and inventive craftsmanship. India’s various regions has created their own distinct styles, each of which tells a tale of the blending of cultures that distinguishes the nation.

Navaratna jewelry is still a beloved and sought-after form in modern times. Although conventional designs hold great value, contemporary jewelers explore novel materials, settings, and styles to accommodate a wide range of tastes and preferences.

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Text Credits: Vishakha Menon

The rose gold trend is swaying across a wide range of categories like fashion and beauty, accessories, home decor, and electronic devices. From when iPhone introduced their rose gold version back in 2015, this colour started re-entering the market through sneakers, home accessories, and apparel. This calm shade of pink is everywhere, especially in the jewellery sector this year. At the Milan Furniture Fair held last April, the biggest eye-catcher was the rose gold furnishings. Though a trend that was popularly prevalent in 2017, it is giving us hints of staying longer. Here’s how it got popular and some ways to embrace it this season.

Cartier, the international jewellery brand was the first to popularise this colour with their Cаrtіеr Trіnіtу Ring, аlѕо known as Trіnіtу de Cartier. This ring was a combination of yellow gold, rоѕе gоld, аnd whіtе gоld. This trendsetter of the 1920s faded into the 20th century and started gaining importance in the 21st century. Rose Gold has been a part of a lot of jewellery brands. This is a combination of copper and gold giving a pink hue to the metallic effect. Another prominent place of this colour is the weddings. From trendy patisseries, makeup, decoration props to the bridesmaids, everyone and everything adorned rose gold in pride last season.

The first comeback was spotted in 2012 with jewellery brands all over adopting it. Then came the iPhone 6 rose gold edition which changed the social media hustle of it. The influencers and celebrities made it an iconic statement, thereby giving the colour a pedestal to gain fame. Slowly it became the insta-famous colour for the past few years. With metallics coming back to trend, rose gold further gained importance.

This trend has influenced hairstyles too. Getting a faint hue of rose gold mixed with your favourite pinks, violet or burgundy would give you an edgy look. Rose gold metallic jewellery is always a yes. Go for thin body jewellery to accentuate your beautiful skin tone. The famous trend of last year, the rose gold sneakers is still a great option for you. Look for rose gold detailing on plain sneakers and you are good to go. Giving detailing and finishing extra brownie points, rose gold is considered one of the most reliable and adaptable accents to any look.

Considered as one of the most romantic colours due to its pinkish hue, rose gold metal is affordable and strong due to its copper content. The trend for rose gold has peaked with its big impact on sales and demand for products across fashion, jewellery, beauty, weddings and bridal couture. So what are you waiting for? Grab your share of rose gold merchandise and go pink!

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Text credit: Roopa Vohra

Thewa as a concept was unknown to the world till the year 1997, when I accidentally stumbled upon an image of a piece of Thewa art. After my interaction with the local artisans and skilled designers, I learnt that Thewa was a 400 year old dying art which is a fusion applique of a piece of patterned work sheet of gold foil which is transferred on to transparent coloured glass. Soon after I realised that I wanted to revive this art and introduce it to the world.

Thewa can be traced back to the rulers of Pratapgarh but it is believed that this form existed long before that and was practiced by Bengali artisans but when they were not given any support, they moved westward, in search of a benefactor. Their search ended when they finally settled in Rajasthan. They taught some of the locals the peculiar art form and then as they say, ’the rest was history’. In time, Thewa acquired the status of a family business and was protected fiercely by its practitioners.

Thewa is an age old craft with every piece of glass encased in a frame of silver or metal wire. The glass pieces can be round, oval and drop shaped, square, rectangle or octagonal. The design is minutely worked out by hand on a 24 carat Sone-Ki-Chadar (gold sheet). Different sheets of foils are fixed one after the other on the work surface, which is a board covered with a layer of lac. The lac is heated and the metal sheet is pressed tightly and firmly into it. When the lac cools down, it hardens and holds the metal down while it is being worked upon, resulting in the immaculate fusion of gold and glass.

To give back the Thewa artisans a means of livelihood, I decided to create an exclusive Thewa collection as an ode to the skilled craftsmen. But it was only after an in-depth research of the actual materials and designs that existed in the yesteryears that the raw sketches were finally put through the production level. The Thewa collection launched was a contemporary spin to traditional artefacts to suit the tastes of women today and it garnered much appreciation from art patrons. The Thewa creations are timeless masterpieces and have therefore never gone out of fashion since their inception.

Later, the success of Thewa paved way for the launch of Naqaashi – a Moghul architectural art form used in doors and windows. However, the challenge being in transforming this into modern pieces of jewellery and retaining their essence and aesthetics. The result was yet another mesmerizing collection highlighting the uniqueness of two separate cultures with each piece like poetry on display!

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Text credit: Nishant Tulsiani

Jewellery and a sense of style are a personal choice for any individual. Be it any season or occasion, women always have a strong admiration for ornaments and accessories. Jewels constitute an integral part of a woman’s wardrobe. Thus, choosing the right treasure for the occasion is very important to enhance your style. However, there are a few staples for adornment that can always be counted on to give your outfit that extra edge. Chunky bracelets, cocktail rings, ear studs, hoops, and layered necklaces are a few trinkets that are on every woman’s wish list these days!

Hoops

Every woman can make a stunning style statement by owning a pair of hoops. Being one such jewellery that a girl is most likely to borrow from her grandmother, hoops are timeless and the right accessory that adds the perfect dose of glamour to their personality. This fashion embellishment works well with almost all types of ensembles by graciously mingling with any style.

Statement rings

Bold rings are another trending accessory that is a must have for today’s urban women. Pair them with bold necklaces or with simple looking studs that are assured to give you an effortless look. Such rings impart an elegant look instantly when worn alone.

Layered necklaces

One can also stay on top of the style by donning chic single or double stratified neckpieces with edgy pendants encrusted with semi-precious gemstones in lively yet subtle tones of pink, aqua, and green. These can be worn for a casual lunch with friends or a formal night out with your husband. It is the most ideal accessory to set the mood for any outing.

Bracelets/handcuffs

Another most sought after jewellery is bracelets /handcuffs. They are one of the most versatile accessories that can be worn easily and complements both traditional and western attire with equal flair. Available in a variety of styles including bold and edgy cuff bracelets, simple charm bracelets and chic tennis bracelets; these are sure to pull the entire look together. Wear them for a night out in town or on a day spent shopping with friends, these will definitely set your impression as a fashion connoisseur.

Stud earrings

Trends in earrings change frequently with time. From chandeliers to shoulder dusters, fads vary vastly but one fashion that never goes out of style are stud earrings. Simple looking ear studs encased with handpicked colourful stones are a hit among ladies of all age groups and are found in every woman’s bauble box. Be it a gorgeous solitaire stud or a bijou ear stud with pearls, these will forever be a mainstay.

Chokers

Chokers, a big trend of the times gone by, have come to the forefront of fashion in a big way. This particular accessory in versatile style and detailing is setting fashion goals both for ethnic and western outfits. Depending on the kind of outfit, this necklace style can either be a delicate add-on or an edgy statement piece. A contemporary style satin or lace choker with a dangling pearl and a velvet style choker can make your casual dressing look even more interesting when teamed up with western outfits like crop-tops and skirts to create a fusion look. Thick chokers with Swarovski crystals are also a trendsetter these days. On the other hand, a choker crafted in kundan or polki can render a mesmerising touch to a traditional outfit.

Nishant Tulsiani  is Director at Anaqa Jewels

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Text Credits: Namrata George

Tis the season to be jolly, and to be in your best festive spirit FWD has hand picked the best pieces of jewellery and clothes to look your Christmas best. As many occasions approach this season here are the best of the best to choose from. Step out with these pieces and shine brighter than the stars.

Sourcing: Yoube Jewellery

This exuberant ruby red and diamond floral ring set on white gold from Yoube Jewellery is perfect to reflect your Christmas cheer.

Sourcing: Yoube Jewellery

What is more christmas than green and white, wear this Yoube Jewellery intricate emerald and white gold diamond ring for some flamboyance this festive season.

Sourcing: RIRAAN’ by Rikita & Ratna

Wear this RIRAAN’ by Rikita & Ratna lovely chiffon pastel peach outfit embroidered with teal, dark blue floral and vine zardosi at the hem of the top is embellished with beaded fringes. This cold shoulder number with cape sleeves is perfect for the festive season.

Sourcing: RIRAAN’ by Rikita & Ratna

This pastel blue jumpsuit from RIRAAN’ by Rikita & Ratna with a curvy umpire line detail and one shoulder chiffon sleeve with delicate peach, blue and gold sequin and zardosi work will grab all the attention wherever you go. The bodice is heavily draped and has an extended sleeve shawl with gold beaded tassels to the hem. Adorn this outfit and have all eyes on you.

Sourcing: House of Zardoze

Wear this beautiful outfit from House of Zardoze, embellished with 3D delicate flowers and vines over an off-white organza floor length gown ruched at the waist and look like an angel sent from heaven above.

Sourcing: House of Zardoze

This graceful lehenga set from House of Zardoze to wear this festive season. Be it to wedding functions and family gatherings this beautifully embroidered blouse and skirt is perfect for the occasion. Complimenting this look is the gold border accents and a net shawl with an embroidered border of vertical leaves matching the outfit.

Try out these looks this festive season and capture everyone’s attention.

Feature image source

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Text: Namrata George

As the season of weddings, social gatherings and parties are drawing near each occasion has a dress code to follow. We tend to buy jewellery based on the occasion such as a typical Indian function we would pick up traditional pieces and if its for a night out to town with friends something modern would be ideal.
Kolkata based Jewellery brand MiRA by Radhika Jain has exactly what you need to wear for both traditional and western wear.

Exclusive pieces which can be worn on all occasions. This collection comes complete with pieces right from stunning pendants to precious- stone necklaces, beautiful chokers to collars, headgears, signature bracelets and earrings.

The exclusive collection is created using hand crafted fibres with metallic elements and aims to be the guilty pleasure of every woman. Each hand-crafted piece make’s a treasured keepsake that can be handed down through generations. The designs are simple, classical yet very stylish which can be worn by women of any age group.

The designer Radhika Jain

Sourcing: MiRA by Radhika Jain

Designer Radhika Jain shares, “The limited edition sums up the pieces that can be paired with traditional as well as modern outfits. The best thing about this collection is that it includes pieces that are exclusive yet affordable.”

The ‘MiRA’ brand is known for its impressive but very wearable jewellery meant for all occasions. Radhika’s jewellery has always had a modern twist with hints of traditional designs in silver and assorted metals. Each piece was an eye-catcher and aimed at the bold independent modern woman who is not only very contemporary in her choices, but is sure of her feminine and earthy side.

Sourcing: MiRA by Radhika Jain

This magnificent contemporary neck collar piece has been hand crafted with fibres and metallic elements comprising of birds, flowers and metallic leaves over metallic gold collar plates. Layers of gold chains hung over the chest add a modern yet elegant twist to the piece. Wear this beautiful piece over a strapless evening gown, styled with a classy updo or chignon for the hair. Or pair this piece over a simple silk kurta with less embroidery details and see how the outfit elevates. Style the outfit with a braided low bun.

Sourcing: MiRA by Radhika Jain

This one of a kind Pearl strung necklace with floral embossed pendant with gold vines with birds and flowers with gold tassel chains and pearls on the tip. Style this look by wearing a low cut top and pair it with a skirt skirt have your hair in boxer braids and have all eyes on you. For a more traditional look wear this with a ghaghra choli set and leave your long tresses down with a centre parting.

Sourcing: MiRA by Radhika Jain

This beautiful half necklace that is hung around the neck with gold chains has large white birds sitting on golden twigs with gold and silver leaves. Looks like a scene right out of nature. Pair this piece with a Black shirt and blue jeans over a tan cape blazer; have your hair done in a high messy topknot to complete the modern look. Otherwise team this piece with a sleeveless ankarli set and your hair in side waterfall braid.

Sourcing: MiRA by Radhika Jain

White and silver hand harness is perfect for all modern contemporary wear. It has delicate white and silver flowers coiled around this piece. Style this with a hot red pantsuit and white shirt, with a sleek wet hair look. Otherwise pair this piece with a long kurta dress and net dupatta have your hair in a braided updo.

Let us know how you would pair your jewellery or what fusion you would make with it??

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