Jaipur Gems’ Siddhartha Sacheti on the Future of Fine Jewellery 

Jewellery has always held a deep cultural significance in India, woven into traditions, celebrations, and family heirlooms. Many homegrown brands have been part of this story for decades, trusted across generations. But as shopping habits change and global influences grow stronger, how do these brands evolve while staying rooted in what makes them distinct?  

We spoke to Dr. Siddhartha Sacheti, Creative Director & CEO of Jaipur Gems, a family-run jeweller since 1974, to understand how customer expectations have shifted, how technology has shaped the industry, and what the future looks like for fine jewellery in India. 

Jaipur Gems was established quite a while ago in 1974. What have been the biggest shifts in how customers engage with fine jewellery since your family first entered the business? How has Jaipur Gems adapted its design and retail approach to meet these changing consumer habits? 

When Jaipur Gems started in 1974, jewellery buying was deeply tied to tradition, family events, and investment. Customers relied on personal relationships and trusted jewellers, often making decisions with family input. Now, things have changed. Consumers are digitally savvy, aware of global trends, and value transparency and ethical sourcing. They don’t just want to own jewellery—they want pieces that reflect their individuality. To adapt, we’ve strengthened our digital presence, using our website and social media to showcase craftsmanship and storytelling. We also offer bespoke services, allowing clients to collaborate with our designers to create one-of-a-kind pieces 

What are some pivotal points in India’s economic or technological history that steered the path of the country’s jewellery industry? 

Among the most significant milestones were the market liberalization of 1991 and the technological advancements that followed. As the market opened to international designs, the Indian jewellery sector was introduced to global trends, new business practices and were faced with the challenge of competing on an international scale. Disposable income levels also increased among the Indian middle class, driving up demand for high-quality, superior jewellery with consumers seeking contemporary, internationally inspired designs.  

Technological advancements have also played a huge role in how we have adapted to changing consumer profiles and demands. Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) technologies allowed jewellers to create intricate, precision-based designs with greater efficiency. E-commerce changed how consumers shop, allowing brands to expand beyond regional markets. Advances in gemmology, like diamond grading systems, boosted consumer confidence by ensuring transparency. 

These shifts helped Indian jewellers, including Jaipur Gems, evolve while preserving the craftsmanship that defines the industry.  

Why has Jaipur Gems decided to stick to being a largely family-run enterprise? What do you think sets homegrown brands apart from global competitors? 

At Jaipur Gems, we have always valued being a family-run enterprise. Keeping control within the family ensures that our rigorous quality standards, artisanal expertise, and personal touch remain at the core of everything we do. It also allows us to build long-term relationships—with artisans who have worked with us for generations and clients who trust our legacy. 

Of course, being family-run comes with challenges. We must balance tradition with evolving market demands, retain skilled professionals in a competitive industry, and keep up with technological advancements while preserving our artisanal techniques. 

We see competition with global brands as a healthy challenge rather than a threat. While they bring scale and international recognition, homegrown brands like Jaipur Gems have a deep understanding of Indian cultural nuances, access to regional craftsmanship, and the ability to offer personalised client service. Our well-established reputation and legacy in the Indian market give us a lasting advantage over new entrants.” 

Jaipur Gems has also committed to maintaining its presence in India while many luxury brands are looking outward. What has driven the decision to keep the focus local, and do you see expansion into international markets as a future possibility? 

Our decision to maintain a strong domestic focus, even as many luxury brands expand outward, is driven by strategic priorities and the unique opportunities within India. Firstly, India’s demand for fine jewellery continues to grow, fuelled by economic expansion and a rising middle class.

Our clientele seeks exquisite craftsmanship and designs that reflect cultural heritage and personal taste, making the Indian market a powerful opportunity for us to serve. Staying local allows us to build a strong foundation and provide the best experience for our customers. 

Moreover, we are deeply committed to preserving and promoting India’s rich artisanal traditions. Jewellery here is more than an accessory—it’s a reflection of culture and heritage. By focusing on India, we support local artisans and ensure traditional techniques evolve with modern design. 

That said, we do see potential for international expansion. We have already established a boutique in Dubai and are soon opening a store in Abu Dhabi—both markets with a strong Indian diaspora and appreciation for Indian jewellery. Any further expansion will be carefully planned to maintain our high standards and personalised service. 

While we look at global opportunities, our primary commitment remains to India, where we see immense growth potential and also where our heart lies in preserving its traditions.  

Starfire was established to integrate advanced manufacturing techniques into jewellery production. How has this in-house capability benefitted the design and quality of Jaipur Gems collections? Is there a reason you didn’t opt to outsource this process like many other brands? 

One of the key advantages of in-house production is consistency. By overseeing every step, we maintain meticulous control over quality and design, ensuring each piece meets our stringent benchmarks.  

Having our own production unit also provides unparalleled flexibility in design and innovation. We can swiftly experiment with new techniques, materials, and ideas, allowing us to push the boundaries of traditional jewellery design. It streamlines the creative process.  

Another reason for keeping manufacturing in-house is also the protection of our intellectual property and proprietary methodologies. Jewellery design is an art at the end of the day and originality is key. By not outsourcing, we safeguard our designs and production techniques. 

CaratLane has become one of the largest B2C jewellery ventures on the market. Can you tell me more about how the initial idea came about? And why did you decide to partner with the Tata Group for this venture? What brand and personal values did you find connected you both and what has made this partnership work? 

CaratLane was founded with a vision to revolutionize jewellery retail by making high-quality, beautifully designed pieces more accessible through an online platform. We aimed to break away from the traditional buying experience, offering a wider range, transparent pricing, and a seamless shopping journey. 

In 2016, we partnered with the Tata Group, drawn by shared values of trust, integrity, and customer-centricity. Their strong brand equity and business expertise helped us scale and expand our reach while maintaining our commitment to quality. 

However, in 2023, the family decided to exit CaratLane, feeling it was the right time to shift focus and pursue new opportunities. Our journey with the Tata Group has been incredibly fruitful, our legacy remains a key part of the brand’s story, and we take pride in what we built together 

How does your experience with CaratLane inform your approach to brick-and-mortar and e-commerce today? How do you see the function of a high-end jewellery boutique today, and what makes it essential despite the rise of e-commerce? 

A strong online presence is crucial, as consumers expect a seamless omnichannel experience. Data-driven insights have also been key in understanding customer preferences. At CaratLane, tracking consumer behaviour helped refine our offerings, a strategy we continue at Jaipur Gems. 

But despite e-commerce’s rise, high-end boutiques remain indispensable. They offer an immersive experience where customers can feel materials, appreciate craftsmanship firsthand, and engage with knowledgeable staff. Jewellery purchases are emotional and significant, making in-person interactions vital for cultivating trust and deepening brand connections. 

E-commerce and boutiques complement each other. While online platforms offer reach and convenience, physical spaces solidify brand identity and provide a tactile shopping experience. 

What would you say consumers are seeking from jewellery in 2025? 

Consumers in 2025 are looking beyond aesthetics, seeking jewellery that aligns with their values, lifestyles, and individuality. Sustainability remains a top priority, with growing demand for ethically sourced materials and transparent supply chains. Bespoke designs are also in high demand, as buyers seek unique, personal pieces that commemorate significant moments. 

Technology is becoming a key element, with innovations like smart jewellery enhancing both function and style. Transparency is another crucial factor—consumers want to know the story behind each piece, from sourcing to craftsmanship. Versatility is also a major draw, with adaptable designs that transition seamlessly across occasions. 

Jewellery in 2025 will be more than an accessory—it will be an expression of personal identity, innovation, and ethical commitment. At Jaipur Gems, we are dedicated to staying ahead of these shifts, offering jewellery that reflects both beauty and deeper meaning. 

Looking ahead, what do you see as the next defining trend or challenge in the fine jewellery industry, and how are you preparing for it? 

The fine jewellery industry is on the cusp of major transformations, shaped by sustainability, technology, and evolving consumer expectations. One of the most defining trends is the push for ethical sourcing and transparency, with buyers demanding greater accountability in the supply chain. Jaipur Gems is strengthening its sustainability initiatives and exploring blockchain to enhance gemstone provenance tracking. 

Laboratory-grown diamonds are also gaining traction as a responsible alternative to mined stones, and we are expanding our offerings to meet this shift. Meanwhile, AI and AR are revolutionising both design and retail, allowing for personalised recommendations and virtual try-ons. We are actively integrating these technologies to enhance customer experiences. 

However, these innovations bring challenges. Preserving craftsmanship in a digital era is key, as is adapting to rapid changes in consumer preferences. Rising costs of precious materials also require strategic sourcing and pricing. At Jaipur Gems, we remain committed to balancing heritage with innovation.