Jewelry Design Inspiration – Field Trip to National Park

One cold winter morning on the 24th of January, all the jewellery designing batches along with the faculty of J.K Diamond Institute of Gems and Jewelry met up at the foothill of Sanjay Gandhi National Park where a breathtaking adventure was just about to begin. The anxious excitement and the nervous giggles resonated among us all. Once everyone reached the Park, we quickly assembled into 3 vehicles and sped up the slopes of the beautiful and enchanting National Park. The view up was indeed marvellous and truly inspiring. That’s the beauty of being surrounded by nature. It automatically ignites the brain and refreshes the soul. The light rays of the sun danced upon our face while the wind played with our hair. Our eyes were absorbing the surreal beauty of the Park while our lips chatted away with unending enthusiasm.

Once we reached the desired spot we got off the vehicle and began progressing further into the caves by foot. We were pleasantly greeted by some unexpected friends (monkeys) at the start of the caves which was indeed a fun experience. The caves in the Sanjay Gandhi National Park are home to some of the finest ancient architectural structures that are still intact and well preserved. The caves had intricate carvings and delicate detailing that was hard to miss. For a jewellery designer, it was truly the place to be.

The Inspiration was all around us in various forms i.e. in the shape of stone carvings, stone stairs, gates, huge rocks and various types of plants. We each absorbed the inspiration while taking photos and making mental notes. It was indeed peaceful and mentally soothing to be amidst nature while appreciating the technique and skill of our ancestors who created such monumental structures that withstood the test of time. After gathering all the inspiration and making mental mood boards, we settled into a quiet and empty cave nearby to begin penning our ideas on paper.

Designing in nature is definitely a unique and beautiful experience that one cannot simply compare to even the best state of the art classroom facility. It has to be experienced to be felt. The atmosphere was calm and peaceful with a light breeze blowing away and soft music playing in the background. The mood was set and it was time to start sketching. All of us sketched for almost 2 hours before winding up and moving to another place.

The next spot was even more peaceful and surreal. There we just relaxed and stared into the beautiful valleys and admired the breathtaking view.

We also took a few pictures which we would surely cherish forever. After about an hour of spending time at this beautiful place, we reluctantly decided that it was time to end the trip and head back home. The thought of re-entering into modern civilisation and abandoning this beautiful park that sits at the very heart of our great city Mumbai indeed felt sad. But this trip definitely inspired us and refreshed our minds to a great extent. For its rightly said that ‘Nature truly has the colours of the soul.’

About the Author: Neha Kulkarni

Neha is an aspiring Jewelry Designer pursuing her Qualified Gems & Jewelry Professional Course at J K Diamonds Institute of Gems & Jewelry. She is a law graduate with an immense interest in the Gems & Jewelry industry. She is also a fashion blogger and a part time wardrobe stylist.

1. Silver Streak

The golden-yellow trend dominated fashion jewelry for most of the seasons of 2020, but now it’s time it takes rest in 2021. The designers have spoken – and they declare silver! 

With the versatility of silver, you’ll end up seeing it in many jewelry items – from oversized chain-links, thick cuffs and slinky necklaces. Fashion houses all over the globe are ready to prove how silver is the best choice for the next season’s fashion trends. 

2 Bringing Back The 80’s

The fashion of the 60’s and beyond has had a notable impact on the fashion of today. The ladylike jewelry of the 80’s and 90’s is back, and designers are having their fun with it. 

Not only have timeless studs and delicate strands seem to be making a comeback, but also gorgeous piled-on pearls, embellished bracelets and button earrings that shine with uber-sophistication are seeing the light of day too.

3. Immortal Chain-Links

Chain-links seem to never go out of style, and will continue their reign on fashion jewelry trends even in 2021. 

They continue to rule with gilded necklaces, oversized links and sleek cables. The trend of silver and chain-links go extremely well together. 

Whether you’re here for the statement pieces or simply to adorn something minimalistic, chain-links and their various sizes are here to help you scream aesthetic without actually screaming.

4. Collectibles

Gemstones, seashells and coin pendants have been the go-to fashion jewelry for any vacation get-up. With the existing travel ban on certain tourist regions, people have never missed vacation time so much before. And designers definitely understand that. 

The combination of the vacation spirit with mixed-media creations is leading to some fantastic pieces of jewelry. Long-shell pendants, charm earrings, stone-adorned bracelets are some of the collectibles that are breaking into the fashion scene. 

5. Rhinestone

For 2021, the much-needed, glittery bling comes in the form of rhinestones. Dripping collar necklaces, studded earrings and heavyweight chains decked up in rhinestone is nothing short of perfection in a jewelry piece. 

This is the kind of jewelry wear waiting to be experimented and paired with all kinds of jewelry trends. Be it the single-earring trend to make a luxurious statement, or the simple use of the rhinestones in the 80’s and 90’s delicate wear. 

The first step to becoming a designer is to first have great taste in jewelry. If you see yourself falling head over heels for these designs, or even imagining designs of your own, take the next step and explore the courses available at the JK Diamond’s Institute of Gems and Jewelry website.